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02/06/2001, C2 - TA155-00: FINAL PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 1382 LIMITING THE FLOOR AREA OF NON-TAXABLE SALES IN RETAIL WAREHOUSE STORES EXCEEDING 90,000 SQUARE FEET IN AREA.
j acEnoa REpont '`"C2 CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO FROM: Ron Whisenand, Development Review Manage Prepared By: John Shoals, Associate Planner SUBJECT: TA155-00: FINAL PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 1382 LIMITING THE FLOOR AREA OF NON-TAXABLE SALES IN RETAIL WAREHOUSE STORES EXCEEDING 90,000 SQUARE FEET IN AREA. CAO RECOMMENDATION Grant final passage to Ordinance No.1382 (2001 Series). DISCUSSION On January 16, 2001, the City Council voted 3-2 to introduce Ordinance No. 1382 to print. This ordinance amends the City's Zoning Regulations(Section 17.22.010:Table 9)to place limitations on large retail warehouse stores. Specifically, the ordinance limits non-taxable items to no more than three percent of the floor area for stores between 90,000 and 139,999 square feet, two percent for stores between 140,000 to 250,000 square feet and one percent for stores exceeding 250,000 square feet. Ordinance No. 1382 is now ready for final passage. Attachment 1 is a complete copy of the ordinance and Attachment 2 shows how this new regulation would look in the Municipal Code. A summary of the ordinance, with the official Council vote, will be published at least five (5) days prior to its final passage in the Tribune. This ordinance will go into effect at the expiration of thirty (30)days after its final passage. Environmental Review The City Council approved a general rule exemption from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000, et.seq.) finding that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance will have an effect on the environment. Consequences of Not Taking the Recommended Action If the council does not give final passage to the ordinance, the City's Zoning Regulations would remain unchanged. Large retail warehouse stores would still be subject to applicable state laws and City Codes, including environmental review, land use regulation and architectural review. ATTACHMENTS 1. Ordinance No.1382 2. Final Appearance of Regulation in the City Municipal Code. Jshoals/CC/ORD1382(Second) C2-1 ATTACHMENT 1 ORDINANCE NO. 1382 (2001 Series) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO,AMENDING ZONING REGULATIONS(SECTON 17.22.010: TABLE 9)TO PLACE LEMTATIONS ON RETAIL WAREHOUSE STORES IN EXCESS OF 90,000 SQUARE FEET" (TA 155-00) WHEREAS, the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo held a public hearing on January 16, 2001, to consider amendments to the City's Zoning Regulations to place limitations on warehouse retail stores in excess of 90,000 square feet; and WHERAS, the City of San Luis Obispo has conducted an environmental review of the adoption of an ordinance establishing procedures to provide for the limitation of development of large warehouse stores in the City of San Luis Obispo, and has found that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the proposed ordinance will have an effect on the environment and therefore is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act,Public Resources Code Section 21000, et. Seq.; and WHEREAS, the Land Use Element of the General Plan of the City of San Luis Obispo, adopted on August 1999, sets forth goals, policies and programs to retain existing businesses and to allow the expansion of said businesses consistent with other goals in the General Plan; to provide a resilient economic base that is able to tolerate changes in its parts without causing overall harm to the community; and to serve as the county's hub for retail trade; and WHEREAS, warehouse stores over 90,000 square feet present unique challenges for local government requiring a significantly higher commitment of police, fire and public safety resources as opposed to smaller neighborhood stores. BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo as follows: SECTION 1. Environmental determination. The City Council finds and determines that the proposed amendment to the Zoning Regulations is exempt under State CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3),and reflects the independent judgement of the City Council. SECTION 2. Fes. That this Council, after consideration of the proposed makes the following findings: a. The City of San Luis Obispo, through its General Plan, has identified retention of existing businesses and agencies, and accommodates expansion of existing businesses, consistent with other goals. b. Large warehouse stores that sell non-taxable items compete with existing retail centers in a manner that may have potential adverse impacts on the character of San Luis Obispo. C2-2 Ordinance No. 1382(2001 Ser. Page 2 ATTACHMENT 1 C. Such large retail stores would also negatively impact existing smaller stores and their workforces making the existing shopping centers less viable; thus degrading the continued existence of existing retail stores and existing land use patterns. d. The burdens on the public of large warehouse stores can only be improved by ensuring that they provide sufficient sales tax revenue to the City. SECTION 3. Amendment. Sectionl7.22.010: (Table 9-Uses Allowed by Zone) of the Zoning Regulations is hereby amended as follows: Footnote 23 is added to the use category entitled"Retail Sales—warehouse stores" Notes: 23. No new warehouse store may be constructed in excess of 90,000 square feet,nor an existing store expanded, if the resulting total square footage will exceed 90,000 square feet,unless it meets the standards for the sale of non-taxable merchandise set forth below. a. If total square footage for sales is to exceed 250,000 square feet, no more than one percent (1%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non-taxable merchandise. b. If total square footage for sales is between 140,000 to 250,000 square feet, no more than two percent (2%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non- taxable merchandise. c. If total square footage for sales is between 90,000 and 139,999 square feet, no more than three percent (3%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non- taxable merchandise. For purposes of the above calculations, only enclosed sales area will be considered. "Enclosed sales area" does not include restrooms, office space, breakrooms, backrooms, storage space, open- air garden sales space, etc. Conversions of such space to enclosed retail sales space shall bring the project under the restrictions of the above-described limits. The total square footage and percentage for non-taxable sales shall include subleased and subcontracted departments. SECTION 4. Summary. A summary of this ordinance, together with the names of Council members voting for and against, shall be published at least five (5)days prior to its final passage, in The Tribune, a newspaper published and circulated in this City. This ordinance shall go into effect at the expiration of thirty(30)days after its final passage. C2-3 Ordmance No. 1382(2001 Ser. Page 3 ATTACHMENT 1 INTRODUCED on the 16th day of January, 2001, AND FINALLY ADOPTED by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo on the 6h day of February, 2001, on the following roll call vote: AYES: Mayor Settle and Councilmembers Marx and Muholland NOES: Councilmembers Ewan and Schwartz ABSENT: Allen K. Settle,Mayor ATTEST: Lee Price,City Clerk APPROVED AS TO ORM: J ge n, Attorney JShoals/PC/TA 155-00(Ordmance) C2-4 Title 17 ATTACHMENT 2 Zoning Chapter 17.22 Use Permit Regulations Section 17.22.010 (Table 9 - Uses Allowed by Zone) Table 9:Uses Allowed by R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 C/OS O" PF C-N C-C C-R C-T C-S M Zone Retail Sales-warehouse stores. 45,000 square feet or less gross PC D D floor area per establishment -more than 45,000 square feet gross floor area per PC PC PC establishment Notes: 23. No new warehouse store may be constructed in excess of 90,000 square feet, nor an existing store expanded, if the resulting total square footage will exceed 90,000 square feet, unless it meets the standards for the sale of non-taxable merchandise set forth below. a. If total square footage for sales is to exceed 250,000 square feet, no more than one percent (1%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non-taxable merchandise. b. If total square footage for sales is between 140,000 to 250,000 square feet, no more than two percent (2%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non-taxable merchandise. c. If total square footage for sales is between 90,000 and 139,999 square feet, no more than three percent (3%) of the total square footage may be devoted to non-taxable merchandise. For purposes of the above calculations, only enclosed sales area will be considered. "Enclosed sales area" does not include restrooms, office space, breakrooms, backrooms, storage space, open-air garden sales space, etc. Conversions of such space to enclosed retail sales space shall bring the project under the restrictions of the above-described limits. The total square footage and percentage for non-taxable sales shall include subleased and subcontracted departments. C2-5 January 29, Dear r and Members of the City Council, l the recent avalanche of letters to the editor, the Costco de a to lve around two primary issues: the need for inexpensive g ales tag come to the City. Inexpensive shopping already exists both in the City o uis Obispo and ' e nearby cities, all within easy driving distance. I hav found it necessary to � op M Santa Maria to get good prices. T R As far as s income to the City is concerned, we may wish to consider attractin r quality stores rather than discount stores. There is already h compe ' om nearby cities in that market. San Luis Obispo needs to be a tive d roducts that the other cities do not. Think about it. box stores have a predictable and harmful effect on small cities. ould we • e new businesses,but only those which do not bring about the se of San Luis po's character. Thank yo , Eva J Vigil 1890 Castillo Ct. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 FROM N.F. MAGER, INC. (805)541-2193 FPX541-5346 02.06.2001 17:49 P. 1 - --- -- ,''� H. F. MAGER, INC. STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS 1149 MARSH ST. BOS-541•2192 BAN LUIS OBISPO. CALIr. 02401 February 6, 2001 Mr. Allen K. Settle San Luis Obispo City Mall 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA RK. Sttppur I fol a Costco store at Mr. Alex Madonna's Froom Ranch Project Dear Mayor Settle, I strongly urge you to support a Costco store at the Froom Ranch project. In my opinion the project and site arc excellent for the following reasons. I . Acaoss to the site is an easy off' and back on to the freeway situation due to the existing l.os Osos Road exit. This also means there will be substantially no impact on the currently chitlered traffic situation in downwwn flan Luis Obispo with its already artificially narrow streets and poor parking availability. 2. Being as close as it will be to Highway 101 puts the project in a prominent location perfect for snagging revenue from travelers passing along this busy San Francisco to 1,.A. corridor that otherwise may travel on through our city without stopping. 3. Shopping. prices in tiara l.uis Obispo are definitely higher than fair in all respects. We arc without a doubt the most expensive community in our county and 1 frequently hear people talking about taking their big shopping day business to the South county areas. I have. Ower met anyone from the 5 cities area South of*its that would ever choose to shop in San Luis Obispo instead of Santa Maria even though they are equidistant from both cities. We need this Costco store to promote more competitive prices. 4. The site is in an area already built up with car dealerships and other commerce. Therefore it will not be out of character when developed. llopefully out of(owners coming to those car dealerships, stopping at the exit gas station, the nearby motels, Margie's Diner, or a1 Denny's can be further enticed to shop at the Costc-o s1 ore and v' RECEIVED 1 FEB 1 , 2001 - SLO CITY COUNCIL FROM H.F.MPGER, INC. (805)541-2193 FPX541-5346 02.06.2001 17:51 P. 2 M. F. MACER, INC. STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS 1149 MARBN BT. ODS-541.2193 BAN LUIG OBIBPO, OALIF. 93401 I was born in San Luis Obispo in 1950 and except for 3 years, have lived here all of my lifb. It is truly annoying to listen to self proclaimed "long term residents" who moved here from the L.A. area 5 years ago or so talk about the need to limit growth now that they are here of course. 1 am watching each of my 4 children grow up an leave the area due to lack of adequate opportunities. The City of San Luis Obispo has forever been a special club for downtown and Cal Poly only related businesses that behave for all practical purposes like it trusl doing their selfish best to unfairly limit competition. The opposition to this Costco store is no exception. It is ridiculous to listen to hypocritical complaints against C:osico having floor space for groceries when one can go to Von's for instance which also contains a bank, a pharmacy, nursery products, etc. Protecting jobs fbr union employees of grocery stores is yet another one sided joke. We all know that prices in San Luis Obispo stores just plain suck so why should the rest of us pay extra for their job security. Let them work more competitively at their current jobs or, why not get one of the new jobs at Costco. I am sure that if I were to propose limiting the number I�f Structural Engineers in this city to the current number chat 1 would get one big fat laugh from everyone. Consider also that preventing commercial growth basically hurts job opportunities for all persons in the building industries so those persons arc likely to be extremely unhappy to pay higher prices for goods in support of job security for others. Costco prices in Santa Maria appear to be approximately 60% of what we pay locally for like itenis. Please do your best in support of the Froom Manch Project in fairness, and do not. continue to build a Peoples Republic of San Luis Obispo. Sincerely, 11.1'. Mager SE 2376, Cl: 28066 2 Laurence D. Houlgate 1344 Mill Street,P.O. Box 12628,San Luis Obispo,CA 93406 (805)543-8255 Email: Lhoulgate@cs.com 6 February 2001 City Council City of San Luis Obispo Dear council members: I have been one of the silent majority sitting on the sidelines reading about the debate over the attempt of Costco to build a big box store here. I was not sure I could add anything new to the argument until it occurred to me that there is one thing on which everyone seems to agree. We, the voters, have the right to determine the"character"of our community. We can listen to all of the arguments and elect slow-growth representatives to the city council who will vote to maintain the present emphasis on smaller, charming shopping venues or we can vote for a pro- development city council who will make San Luis Obispo look more like Santa Maria with its enormous proliferation of outlying malls and big box stores. The majority on the city council believe that their recent votes about the size of future stores in the city represent the wishes of the majority of the residents of San Luis Obispo. They believe that they should not ignore these wishes and vote for an ordinance that is more appealing to Costco in Oder to please a minority of S.L.O. residents who want one or more 11}g pox stores within eagy driving distance. If they are wrong about this,then their mistake will lW"come evide>'it itt the next election for city council seats. It should bean interesting election. I, for one, will WA—hard on the side of those who want to maintain the present character of our city. Sincerely, f La ce D. f1ppIpte RECEIVED FEB 1 6 7001 SLO CITY COUNCIL FEB-06-2001 05 :36 PM P. 01 Dar (YI fr &4� , - 6 - 0 ( erg. (o cAra(�e YG(A, `D t7p r� CcQ a r,� me,,64, r cie tt, o rc(r v*l O.Act ptus 4�-fvkcls- LA)ctvt+ Gk, 6o sko cLAJ Tang e 14,n o uoc WA karm C)cj r cormmuni u-cUC-4.0 u s . bleftf: P CLqe w�� �.e. -�.�. 4coc rove AVC lyvlP x)vS OW` 60YMlWUj RECEIVEU s)�ned FEB 9 6 2001 Kenn•e� • �-� t SLO CITY COUNCIL C., (A to 0il t- e 1,.. _ / I sled-A,<. � Frain:Ron Cnmwiin 805.91-7.0322 7o:Faa117817109 Date:021061?001 Toric:3:52':#4 PM Page 1 of 1 Dear City Council Members February 6,2001 My wife and I live in SLO County and travel to the Costco store in Santa Maria at least once a month. While there we eat lunch and frequently fill up on gas. We have lived on the central coast for 43 years, and frequently meet many of our friends and neighbors from San Luis Obispo County at the Costco store. All of us would welcome a Costco Store u3 SLO in order to keep our expenditures at home. We hope that you will reconsider your previous vote and vote for the Costco store in ST.(-). Sincerely yours, Helga&Ron Cr a unitt Cambria RECEIVE® FEB j ?.�1I 3L0 CITY.000NCIL Feb-06-01 03: 05P Inte`ors By Norma 80F-543 0683 P .01 fir t "i U February 6, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle Fax 7817109 � Dear Mayor Settle: V I would very much like to see a Costco in San Luis Obispo. I shop at Costco quite frequently, but 1 also go to the grocery 6 stores for items that 1 do not purchase at Costco. I also purchase items that are not in the grocery stores. s The convenience of having a Costco in San Luis Obispo would be of great value instead of having to drive and spend my money in Santa Barbara County. The revenue of taxes that would be generated for the City would be a plus, along with the fact there would be less .` unemployment in the area. I trust you will reconsider and vote for Costco. lntizriorac, Thank you. by QJ�`�orrna Sincerely, ij NORMA M. JAMS EE VED nsm Norma M. Jarvis Deme 0315 )OGI corn actors ucerw A55"� OU CIL_ 990 IndusMpl Way San tins Obispo,CA 93401-7699 Phone(805)543-0676 FAX(805(Sd3-0683 .Lx`s t s �y x3 nca S j • r e'."+6�� V Ss'py®p�(}'(' Y:�:q � el Rrkeipl 0 ® The Council's decision on the San Luis Marketplace, which includes a Target store and gift of open space, is on this evening's agenda. If you came to address the Costco issue but are willing to stay on and show support for the Marketplace, we would greatly appreciate it. We. need e p. Don't miss out on 60 acres of open space, retail sales tax for SLO and shopping choices that complement our downtown. E) TARGET RECEIVED FEB -.R 2001 Qi n CITY CLERK Q_ Janu , 2001 De ayor and Members of the City Council, om the recent avalanche of letters to the editor, the Costc to seem evolve around two primary issues: the need for inexpens' opping and s tax income to the City. Inexpensive shopping already exists both in the Ci an Luis Obispo and in nearby cities, all within easy driving distance. I not found it necessary to s in Santa Maria to get good ices. B T R As far s tax income to the City is concerned, we may wish to consider attrac ' etter quality stores rather than discount stores. There is already uch on from nearby cities in that market. San Luis Obispo needs to b eative er products that the other cities do not. Think about it. ox stores have a predictable and harmful effect on small citie a should welco ew businesses, but only those which do not bring about demise of San Luis Obi character. Thank you, Eva J Vigil 1890 Castillo Ct. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 I '-'RECEIVLD .Dalidio'Referend -roposal'_(2/_6/.01)` FER 2081 R1Clla drKranzd'orf ' ci= - 7Y CL=ERK a* That a` buiduigTrefei(endum,take place m�asshort a`penod of ;`' tune as isLpracticable to�havethe uoters� San Luis Obispo wlietheridecid&thi5y�wish�to'Have a major shopping mall on �' •�'ST• I what;is now prime;ag�land,mostofwluchais referred to as the Dand16" . perty�ortwhether they wantdthegproperty to �remaincas itis>'foT future generations; s yi hb 'That all major,pa_rties+agreeu ,jadvan_ceathat they""will abide by F,r,n T.a"-•W"-*q{r µ ,...e.;.e..�.x �r= the vote of the people aMhotYtry bther means,,such as: f IF theapproachmg;of�other�unsdictons to try to r ��r Yreverse$thevote asdescnbed'in`�a'saboue,fiancl £ " ' ?J j cThat eacbxside abide by al $5'a0001unrt�foTsthereferendum_ fcampalga v�thPno'onepersonl contributing�more&than $ 1r00:, . f r ��- J S • � l ."t 4 r j k y , a t rk aC '�I' r. • ...�� I ..� - tI'" - t J. _• "� . . 4 1 i as i � t cf) z QUESTIONS ASKED BY COUNCIL MEMBER MARX CONCERNING THE MARKETPLACE PROJECT 1. What is the final cost of the Prado Road overpass? There is no final cost yet. That would not occur until the EIR is certified,which is dependent upon the Marketplace EIR being certified and final plans and specifications being prepared and approved by Cal Trans. The last estimate we received was approximately$10 million,plus right-of-way costs. 2. What is the possibility of linking of the Marketplace to LOVR via the gap properties? The Circulation Element calls for this link. The connector runs around the westerly side of the property and dead ends at Madonna's property line. Madonna would have to develop and put in his portion of the road to make the connection complete. As far as requiring it for traffic mitigation, the EIR said it was not necessary. 3. What specific urban uses are planned for the 9.24 acres or the interim open space? There are no planned uses for the 9.24 acre interim open space portion of the annexation area. The property will remain in"open space/agricultural"use until such time as the property owner proposes a"rezone". It is up to a future Council to decide whether to rezone that portion of the open space to another non-open space use. According to the MOU, if the property is allowed to develop,Mr. Dalidio will agree to dedicate all remaining open space to the City in fee(as opposed to a conservation easement). 4. What will be the final amount of agricultural land that will be left undisturbed after the project? If the entire Dalidio property is annexed,the resulting area in permanent agricultural open space use is 60 acres. This does not count the interim open space parcel. 5. What is the prospect of a convention center in relationship with hotel? The Convention Center/Hotel project has never been proposed on the property.- This is an idea that some have raised as a possible development option for this property. The EIR has identified a possible hotel land use in terms of an"alternative." However, no specific plans or detailed environmental analysis have been prepared for this use. Therefore,we would be unable to determine the impacts of the hotel use and the high power transmission lines. 6. What are the traffic impacts be on Madonna Road? The Marketplace`project"includes the Prado Road interchange construction. Because of this,the impacts to Madonna Road would be minimal. The specific mitigation measures for Madonna Road are construction of additional tum lanes at Madonna and Dalidio, and construction of interconnection wires between the signal systems along Madonna. 7. What is the proximity of the projected hotel to the high-intensity power lines between the two shopping centers? As mentioned earlier, no hotel has ever been formally proposed for this project. The projected shopping center will be much farther away from the power lines than the existing shopping center. FEB 05 '01 11:15 FR COSTCO REAL ESTATE 425 313 8105 TO 916057817109 P.01i01 cds- • WN©�.ES�ILE ftmM'S DMCT UM 425.313.6280 F.0 LftE:4253133105 February 5, 2001 VIA FACSIMILE: 805-781-7109 Honorable Mayor Allen Settle City of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: Based on your inquiries as to the minimum operational needs of Costco in terms of area square footage, we have evaluated our building layout and believe that we can modify our prototypical building so as to limit our"enclosed sales area"to approximately 98,730 square feet For clarity, to arrive at this number,the areas for receiving, meat and bakery preparation,optical examination, food service preparation,tire installation,cash registers,restrooms,office package,employee break room, and refrigerated freezers and coolers were deducted. Should the council decide it is necessaryto pass the proposed ordinance restricting non-taxable sales in a building,then we believe we would be able to comply provided that the maximum permitted enclosed sales area is not less than 100,000 SF. As you know, we will be investing considerable money pursuing entitlements and approvals and ultimately purchasing a site in San Luis Obispo, all based on compliance with the ordinance. Therefore, if the council should adopt any future ordinance that would be contrary to the proposed ordinance, such that it would prevent our development or continuing operation, there would be a significant adverse economic impact to Costco. Please understand that we do not support any ordinance that restricts what may or may not be sold within a business. However, I wanted to let you know that, should the council adopt such an ordinance, Costco would be able to accommodate its development with a 100,000 SF"enclosed sales area° restriction, as defined above. Sincerely, COSTCO WHOLESALE Jac S. Frank Vl President- Director of Development JSF/vh smsnue.fto-.-Od 999 Lake Drive • lssacuah• WA 98027 • d251313.8100 • costco.com MEETING AGENDA C : a- _D ITEM #. CITIZENS FOR ETHICAL PLANNING 818 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA • 93401 February 5, 2001 COUNCIL 0 CDD DIR �A O FIN DIR AO C1 FIRE {ATTORNEY D PIMIR DIEI Ms. Pam Ricci a-CLERVORIa 0 POLICE U:' Planning Department 13MgMT TEAM C REC.DR1 City of San Luis Obispo e' O UTIl.DIR O PERE DIR; kx ct-..7 RE: Environmental Review for the Proposed Dalidio Pro � p Prop Annexation(State Clearinghouse#99031092), General Plan and Zoning Code Consistency Citizens for Ethical Planning have reviewed the `Administrative Final' for the above-referenced project and offer the following comments' MITIGATION MEASURES: • The use of the word"should" is permissive and, therefore, does not require compliance. Without compliance, identified impacts revert to their unmitigated status(see GEO-1 and others). • The use of the words"greatest extent possible," `where feasible," and "shall be encouraged" or any other similar wording does not require compliance and consequently impacts are r.;:ot mitigated (see DW-3(b) and others). • The use of the vague term"before implementation" does not require a specific project entitlement trigger;for example, a building permit or use permit which then ensures timing, allows for proper monitoring and ensures feasibility(see DW-I(a) and others). • There is no finding regarding the adoption of a monitoring program as required by Public: Resources Code Section 21091.6. • Studies of potential impacts cannot be deferred. This is important not only to understand all impacts and provide adequate mitigation but also to provide full disclosure to the decision- makers and the public(see GEO-2 and subsequent measures GEO-3, 4, and 5, which reference but do not specify mitigation measures and others, i.e., DW-3(a) ). • Mitigation measures which require third-party participation or approval are not feasible car enforceable (see T-15, AES-4, the realignment of Elks Lane and others). RECEIVED 1 FEB 0 6 2001 SL0 CITY COUNCIL • Future studies based on timing. The survey of the Congdon's tarplant must be conducted ' prior to analysis. In addition, the measure must use the non-discretionary word `shall' tq require this measure to be effective and enforceable. • Changes in,.,project description. The Prado Road interchange has been enlarged by approximately five acres. What are the impacts of this change especially to the steelhead trout i 'orthe analysis for open space was originally for 50 acres and now appears that i arifiot40 acres. -What are the environmental impacts and does this change still comply with;t Ga@'�ral Plan? ;10 M.9 u • Vagur%Mg tion such-As AG-2(a) and(c) give no specifics and, therefore, are unenforcE:able. What �; enms s'6e tonstrate"'or"compatible" mean? Also, measures listed as recoi r &are not enifoiceab)a(BIO-1(j) and others). General comments include the following; MITIGATION MEA6URE9: • N-3(b) and (c). 10:00 p.m. is too late to mitigate noise impacts. • BI0-1(fl. Replacement ratios of 1:1 are inadequate since survival rates are less than this; ratio. A minimum of 3:1 is required. This also applies to riparian vegetation. AES-1(a). Impacts of the proposed buildings to views of Cerro San Luis and the foregrhund hills have not been addressed. This must include any potential increase in ground level based on flooding considerations. This issue is separate from the cumulative loss of views of agricultural lands. The preliminary traffic study for the proposed Costco project indicated that the Los Osos Valley Road overpass at J ighway 101 was nearing, or at, capacity and the approval of the Home Depot project would create an unacceptable level of traffic on the overpass. A discussion of this overpass does not appear to be included in this document. It does not appear that the increased retail space developed as part of the Central Coast Mall redevelopment was included in the traffic analysis. • We again state that the traffic section is inadequate. To determine feasibility, timing and. enforceability, mitigation must include cost estimates for these improvements, describe what their probable schedule is or what other source(s) of funds are to be used to complete these improvements. In addition, the timing and availability of these funds and implemen tatioii schedule is critical. Without this information, traffic impacts are unavoidable and significant. Future development agreements are not sufficient. The above is applicable to the Prado; Road interchange including cost estimates for the increased size of this interchange. 2 r • Future studies based on timing, The survey of the Congdon's tarplant must be conducted prior to analysis. In addition,the measure must use the non-discretionary word 'shall' to require this measure to be effective and enforceable. • Changes in project description. The Prado Road interchange has been enlarged by approximately five acres. What are the impacts of this change especially to the steelhead trout? Iq,a%idi or the analysis for open space was originally for 50 acres and now appeArs that it i or:40 acres. What are the environmental impacts and does this change still comply with Plan? • Vaguk%ddgation such as AG-2(a)and(c)give no specifics and, therefore, are unenforceable.What-terms "demonstrate"or"compatible" mean? Also, measures listed as recorigr�yeOO of not'enforceable(BIO-10) and others). General comments include the following: MI'T'IGATION MEASURES: N-3(b) and (c). 10:00 p.m. is too late to mitigate noise impacts. BIO- . Replacement ratios of 1:1 are inadequate since survival rates are less than this ratio. A minimum of 3:1 is required. This also applies to riparian vegetation. • AES-I(&). Impacts of the proposed buildings to views of Cerro San Luis and the fnregr+ and hills have not been addressed. This must include any potential increase in ground level based on flooding considerations. This issue is separate from the cumulative loss of views of agricultural lands. The preliminary traffic study for the proposed Costco project indicated that the Los Osos Valley Road overpass at Highway 101 was nearing, or at, capacity and the approval of tie Home Depot project would create an unacceptable level of traffic on the overpass. A discussion of this overpass does not appear to be included in this document. • It does not appear that the increased retail space developed as part of the Central Coast Mall redevelopment was included in the traffic analysis. • We again state that the traffic section is inadequate. To determine feasibility, timing and. enforceability, mitigation must include cost estimates for these improvements, describe what their probable schedule is or what other source(s)of funds are to be used to complete these improvements. In addition, the timing and availability of these funds and implementation schedule is critical. Without this information, traffic impacts are unavoidable and significant. Future development agreements are not sufficient. The above is applicable to the Prado; Road interchange including cost estimates for the increased size of this interchange. i 2 COMMF; S ON TRE PROCESS: • General Plan Polity 1,11.4 (Nonresidential Growth Rate). This policy allows for consideration of establishing limits for the rate of non-residential development if the increase in such development exceeds 5%for any five-year period. Based on the Draft General Plan Annual Report, the latest rate was 5.9%, This is certainly an indication that commercial development is growing rapidly and review of alternatives and impacts should be made before additional commercial development is permitted. General Plan Policies 1.13.2 (Annexation Purpose and Timing) and 1.13.3 (Required Platts). These policies require that phasing of annexation must be consistent with a city-approves specific or development plan for the area. These plans are to reflect topography, needed capital facilities and funding, open space objectives, and existing and proposed land usesand roads. As originally proposed, the project was to be designated "PD" (Planned Development) which would have required a development plan approved as part of the rezoning. However, new the Special Consideration Zone (S) overlay has been proposed. This designation does nE)t require a review of a development plan at the time of annexation and, in fact, allows for he permitting process to occur at the Administrative Hearing Officer level. In addition, theuse permit may be waived if the property is subject to a subdivision map application. This process would not allow for integrated planning review of capital funding and facilities- or other large scale planning or financial concerns. In summary, it is insufficient to meet` planning goals and does not meet the intent and substance of these policies. SUMMARY: We continue to urge the City to pursue a strategy of sustainable urban infill development, including a combination of downtown revitalization reconstruction and improvement of existing shopping center space. We continue to encourage the City to seek alternatives to this project including the compensation to the Dalidio facility through the use of numerous land conservation groups including the use of State and Federal programs. We submit this letter as supplemental information to our letter of September 16, 1999. Sincerely, Brian Christensen, Member Citizens for Ethical Planning BC:rs 3 Lee Price`-C4_Web Visitoger Comments Pa6e__1 -- -- -- - -- - DATE 2-A o ITEM # From: <webserver@slocity.org> To: <Iprice@slocity.org> Date: 2/6/01 12:46PM Subject: City_Web_Visitor_Comments [N0-tLERri0RIG OUNCIL O CDD DIR CAO O FlN DIRionNEY C FlRE CHIEFToday's Date: 2!6/01 p PO C0 FIN IE CHFVisitor's Name: THOMAS A. HUTCHINGS NAddress: 538 FELTON WAY0 REC DIR City: SAN LUIS OBISPO O PERSDDin State: CA �I Zip Code: 93405 a v.41 Phone: 541-6474 Fax: Email Address: thutchings@asn.org Comments/Questions: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL; THIS SERVES AS MY ENCOURAGING SUPPORT FOR ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1382 (SERIES 2001), LIMITING FLOOR AREA FOR NON-TAXABLE SALE ITEMS. I AM ALSO OPPOSED TO THE APPROVAL OR CONSTRUCTION OF ANY STRUCTURE IN EXCESS OF 90,000 SQUARE FEET WITHIN THE CITY HS//THOMAS A. HUTCHINGS RECEIVED FEB 0 6 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 4...c ITEM 0 NCIL D CDD DIR D FIN DIR 0 D FIRE CHIEF A RNEY DPW DIR 0-1 LERK/ORIG O POLICE CHF D ISG TFA D REC DIR D UTIL DIR D PEAS DIR r�l �d��� cam , f PQM^RN �„� -_------_ r w v v ✓'- 10019 A 833 6 -ef � 03n13��d �r YI'I• H A P P Y H O L I D A Y S ' o�-;:�:_._�_;_:r.���o3ojtg�rrNE�'16•$]5fl�p?4f�4��1#14��fl41§P�9�P�14E�4hn�tgN�." MrrTING AGENDA L. ..c .2- ITEM # E UNCIL ❑ CDD DIR O ❑ FIN DIR AO 0 FIRE CHIEF ORNEY o Pw DIR RECEIVED ERKIORIG a POLICE CHF MT TEAM O REC DIRFEB 0 6 2001 G UTIL DIR O PERS DRi SLO CITY COUNCIL 44a o-yv Gv &e f 42-r / 7 w'�=1i/ED FEB 0 6 ?00 SLO CITY COUNCIL PAUL a PORTER, CPA A PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANCY CORP. February 6, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle, I just wanted to express my support of the proposed San Luis Obispo Costco. I am a regular Costco customer and would appreciate a more convenient location. Thank you. Sincerely, Paul D. Porter Certified Public Accountant 555 Chorro Street,Suite D-1 San Luis Obispo,California 93405 (805)544-8667 Fax(805)781-3638 O 2.• O 6. 01 03- : 5 6 P.M * STAR F O 1 February S . 2001 TO : THE MAYOR AND ALL MEMBERS OF .THE SAN LUIS OBISPO CITY COUNCIL RE : COSTCO Ob .sP0 - it makes no I would welcome �ostcotCostcoo SanLtnsanyimanner , especially sense to me to pohibit since 35% of its members in Santa Maria come from our those tax dollars go to Sae ta county . Why should all whenwe County . Evert more tax dollars will come our rjoin who didn ' t have a Costco here because more People before due to the distance . THERE IS ONLY ONE INDEPENDENT , relatively full service , MARKET in the City of San Luis Obispo , on Laurel Lane , and it meets a very specific need of its neighbors who will still probably not shop at Costco . r market /delicatessens 1n SLO . AL There are 3 or 4 othe OTHER MARKETS ARE MAJOR CONGLOMERATES . You are not going to put them out of business either with a Costco . Home Depot can come Onot ocbusinessCostco Santa Put Smart & Finaloutofeither , Santa Maria didn ' t P I and it ' s a major " big box" grocery store . f It seems there ' s a want and a need for Costco in SLO . 1 Please let it happen . I , I I I . I 'I I II I Feb 06 01 02: 11p FHMC/OR 542-6430 805 542 6430 p. 1 cw 0 CL � C� � 3� Lf, FROM FAX NO. Feb. 06 2001 01:43PM P1 February 6,2000 To: City of San Luis Obispo Regarding the vote tonight on limiting the food area for stores coming into town, which vote will keep Costco out of San Luis Obispo,please vote no. please vote"yes" for a COSTCO coming into San Luis Obispo. The following are all members of Costco and k We would like the sale shop there each wees tax money to be kept in San Luis Obispo City or County.and we would like to be spared the weekly drive tO Santa Maria. Flenor Redman Kim Kolb Kit Picard Garry Kolb Alice Kolb 02/06/2001 14:23 1-805-526-8351 S STODDARD PAGE 01 6/6/2001 To the members of the City Council: Allen Settle John Ewan Ian Howell Marx Ken Schwartz Christine MulhoUa nd AWWugh I Live in Los Oros, I work hill time in San Luis Obispo,and feel that I am part of the SLO aommtmity. As such, I wish to voice my opimon on the"Costoo issue." I am AGAINST having a Costco store in SLO. Thant you, ,k'IL:,wYp i� ,e& Sherri Stoddard Los 0606 FROM ': RAYTHEON FAX NO. : 6055622930 Feb. 06 2001 02:06PM P1 NO on COSTCO And "NO" on Rome Depot, Home Base, Walmart and all Large Shopping Developments. I do NOT need nor will I patronize them. I support my community by shopping at and giving my business to the Small Businesses and "Mom & Pop" Shops in San Luis Obispo. And that will NOT .change. Ken Thompson 595-2880 -WtIOLESJLLE January 26.2001 Tk�ar f:nsrcn Member: On January 16, the San Luis Obispo laity Council voted 3-2 to If this ordinance passes: permanently prohibit Custcu from coming to Sam Luia Obispo. This ordinance is backed by suparmarket unions who want to eliminate • Costco will not their competition.The supermarket unions convinced the"Swing vote." be allowed in Mayor Allcn Scule, w suypoi t the uitluraucc.They atgucd that Costto is San Luis Obi.sln bad for local employment despite the fact that Costco provides higher -ypnr Mry will lace The. wages and hFnnfirc m irs empinyee_c Than The inion contracts provide. economic benefit of more Mayur Settle voted contrary to the recommendation of his planning than half-a-million dollars staff,the planning Commission,the Chamber of Commerce,and mony per year in sales tax of you,the citizens of San Luis Obispo. revenues from Costco. We still have hope!The City Council will consider the ordinance main .San Luis Obispo residents on'lltesday night,tebruary 6.at 7 p.m.We need your help to convince will be fumcd to pay Mayur Sctdc to chaugc liis wina w,Li ciiuiinate Lis support for the higher Spry and unions'ordinance.The only outcome of this ordinance will be to drugstore prices as a result prohibit Costco and the consumer benettts it provides. of a uutixuuipetitiVC This ordinance takes away your right to decide which businesses environment. you want in your community. A large portion of San Luis Obispo businesses and residents value Ilio Costco is a good neighbor, Costco shopping experience.We do not believe that your City Council and will benefit San Luis should dictate the types of products and the prices that can be offered Obispo in many ways: to you. Please let Mayor Settle know how you feel on this issue! -Costco has always Show your support for fair competition and lower priLes by been a good corporate cttucn in every doing the following: community where. • Contact Mayor Allen Settle by telephone at(805)781-7417, are do business. by&mail at asettleCaPslocity.org,by fax at(805)781-7109 or by mail at 990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo,CA 93401. -We deliver quality • Attend the City Council public hearing on Tuesday night, products at great values. February 6 at 7 pm.at the City Hall Council Chamber •We provide good jobs. located at W. Palm Street. My thanks in advance for any help you can provide,and most (/ importantly.thanks again for being a Cosmo member. `\ Yours very truly- �e �01. � Jeffrey H.Broiman � r �M a✓/r 00.7 A 2 P.O. Box 34595.Seattle. WA 9d 1Ld-Is iJ •(UUU)//4-2678• ww !c rco.cgma 100'd 9903 M 908 83HDUIIH9 SMI (3111)100?-9 -033 M eFTING AGENDA D , y b-Q ITEM # memoRanbum February 6, 2001 UNCIL 0 CDD DIR C ❑ FIN DIR 0 FIRE CHIEF TO: Mayor and Council Members RNEY O PW DIR CLERKIORIO 0 POLICE CHF FROM: Sherry Stendahl, Administrative Assistant E3 D T ' p RUT L DIR DIR O PERS DIR SUBJECT: Communications to Council Regarding Costco ✓0XA'L4 At the request of Council Member John Ewan, I have counted all e-mails sent to him regarding Costco. To provide a bigger picture, I have also tallied incoming phone calls, letters and faxes addressed to the Mayor or Council•. Those numbers are: For Costco/big box store 323 Against Costco/big box store 212 Copies of e-mails are available for review with the City Clerk. MEF7NG AGENDA DAt24--2 1 ITEM # 2 COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERV/ NCIL O CDD DIR _ PAO 0 FlN DIR San Luis Obispo, California 93408 • (805) 781-5200 AO FIRE CHI Duane P. Leib, Director � O ORNEY O PW DIR CLERK10RI0 0 POLICE CHF O 0 REC DIR TO: CITY COUNCIL OF SAN LUIS OBISP — O UTIL DIR O PERS DIR FROM: KLAASJE NAIRNE,Airports Man ger, County an Luis Obispo AA"44A ri�✓ �iCGi✓ DATE: February 6,2001 SUBJECT: Item#2 -Public Hearings Final Environmental Impact Report(EIR),Annexation and Prezoning for the Certification of EIR,Dalidio Property Located at 2005 Dalidio Drive (ER,Annex, R-57-98). The above referenced item requires further response. While the Airports Manager and the Airport Land Use Commission understand that certification of the EIR for the Dalidio Property Annexation is based on the best available information,it is important for the City Council to understand that the amendment to the Airport Land Use Plan may result in the changes to the severity of land use compatibility impacts from those described in this EIR. The Airport Land Use Commission currently is preparing an amendment to the Airport Land Use Plan for San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport. The subject property is within the area that is subject to the Airport Land Use Plan. While it is true that the EIR has identified the land use compatibility impacts as they relate to the existing Airport Land Use Plan,the City Council needs to be aware that the amendment to the Airport Land Use Plan may result in changes to the conclusions presented in the EIR. As such,any future approvals for residential development on the Dalidio property would need to consider the approved amendment to the Airport Land Use Plan. This amendment action may require the preparation of subsequent or supplemental environmental review documentation pursuant to CEQA if these changes are substantial and meet the test described in sectiona 15162 of CEQA guidelines. Further, it must be noted that the EIR did not provide mitigation measures for Impact LU-2 as it relates to safety. The mitigation measures specified avigation easements as they relate to airspace, noise impact and obstructions,overflight disclosure and non-reflective roof materials. The impact ofLU-2 states"The proposed project may conflict with ongoing operations at the San Luis Obispo County Airport, exposing lives and property to potential safety hazards". Impacts are considered Class II, significant but mitigable. No mitigation for safety is addressed. The proposed residential development is below the straight out departure path of the airport's primary runway and the airport's precision instrument approach. C-Ron Whisenand, Development Review Pam Ricci, Associate Planner, City of San Luis Obispo RECEIVED FEB 0 6 2001 3LO CITY COUNCIL SAN REGIONAL AIRS 903-5 Airport Drive,San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 (805)781-5205 Fax(805)781-5985 Richard Schmidt 1W 5444247 EM215/1 (93:38 PM ❑1/1 M. 1NG AGENDA DATE ITEM # RICHARD SCHMIDT 112 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (805) 544-4247 e-mail: rschmidt@calpoly.edu February 5, 2001 �ANclL 0 CDD DIR 1 APA 0 FIN DIR O [3 FIRE To the City Council RNEY 0 PW D RHIEF D-tLERKIORIG 0 POLICE CHF Re Dalidio "Final EIR" Via FAX ° ,� o RTC D0 I UTR DIR O PEERS DR Please pardon yet another letter on this subject, but . . . V J.=aV,-Zf In reading the Agenda Report, I noted something which still has my head spinning: The Council is being asked to certify as fully adequate a Final EIR which doesn't exist! Yep. See for yourself on pages 1 and 2 of the report. Page 1 has the council action listed ("certifying the Final EIR"), but at the bottom of that page it is revealed that there is only a Draft EIR and some bits and pieces of this and that which (at the top of page 2) "after certification . . . will be edited together, along with any other modifications made by the Council, into a Final EIR." So, when you certify, what you see is not what you will get! I have no idea whether this is legal, but is surely isn't right. Please do not take this bizarre procedural shortcut of pretending that you have before you a non-existent document. As I requested before, please direct that this inadequate EIR be fixed by ordering that all previously-made critical draft review comments not addressed in the EIR text, all scoping comments that never were addressed in the EIR text, your own comments, audience comments, comments via letter -- everything -- be subjected to honest, impartial, non-political, non-prejudicial analysis and that ALL these issues be included in the final EIR text. Only then will we have a document worthy of this city's approval. Thank you. Richard Schmidt PS. After rereading the staff report's mitigation section, I see that I was incorrect in my previous note in stating that the Monarch butterfly roost was not addressed. Apologies. It has been addressed, but the mitigation is inadequate. The recommended 50 feet is an entirely inadequate buffer. RECEIVED FEB 0 6 2001 SLID CITY COUNCIL O HTING AGENDA X D1G= uATE UI ITEM # ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE " ENTER TO: Allen Settle,Mayor City of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249 February 5, 2001 EMCAO 0 CDD DIR ❑ FIN DIR Subject: Final EIR,Annexation,& Prezoning for the Dalidio Property 13 13 PW DRHIEF t] POLICE CHF O REC DIR E3 UTIL DIR Dear Mayor Settle and Honorable Council, 0 PERS DIR On behalf of our client, Citizens for Ethical Planning, the Environmental Defense Center continues to assert that the EIR for the Dalidio Annexation Project is legally deficient, fails to adequately address potential environmental impacts, and is not in compliance with the requirements of CEQA. EDC believes the issues previously raised during consideration of the Draft EIR have not been adequately resolved. Before the City Council will be able to certify the EIR, issues including,but not limited to,the following still need to resolution: I. Air Quality. The proposed project will result in emissions of air pollutants that will exceed the APCD standards. The City has indicated in the current General Plan a desire to "be a model of[air] pollution control efforts" (LUE 1.18.1, Air Quality Program). None of the d proposed mitigation provides any real solution for the impact. In fact,the proposed 00 mitigation requires very little if any effort on the part of the applicant to assist the City NC become a"model city". UCZ EDC suggests an alternative mitigation: The installation of a light rail, or other innovative W am — transportation technologies as indicated in the City Circulation Element. Such a solution would also reduce or eliminate many related project impacts discussed in various sections of -J the EIR. 2. Agricultural conversion. The proposed project would result in the direct conversion of approximately 60 acres of prime Ag soils. "It is the City's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land..." (LUE 1.8.1, Agricultural Protection). To maintain the town's character and rural setting, the City has committed to "provide for the continuation of farming..." (LUE 1.8.1) No better opportunity exists to make those commitments reality than over this property. 906 Garden Street 2021 Sperry Avenue,Suite 18 864 Osos Street,Suite A Santa Barbara,CA 9301 Vent a CAL9 QQ3 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 ® Phone 805)963-1622 Phone i0 Phone 805)781-9932 FAX(805)962-3152 FAX(805)677-2577 FAX(805)781-9384 edc@rain.org edcvent@west.net edcmal@west.net Other properties are available to provide this project a home. In this regard, the EIR is deficient by not providing a rational for the need for this project. Now is simply not the appropriate time for conversion of this property. Alternatively, EDC would be supportive of Council action that directed urban growth to lower quality soils and gave consideration to conservation efforts such as that proposed by Friends of the Farm. 3. Traffic. Discussion of the significant impacts resulting from the proposed Prado Road Interchange is deficient in that the feasibility of the proposed mitigation is highly questionable as a funding source, funding amounts needed, and time-line for completion of traffic mitigation measures are not fully discussed. In light of the reluctance of CALTRANS to acknowledge a funding source for the Dalidio overpass construction, consideration should be given to requiring alternative mitigation measures to be implemented until such time as the overpass is funded and constructed. 4. Drainage. The conceptual drainage system as outlined in the EIR provides inadequate information for the City to base an approval on. Further, the applicant has failed in this EIR to adequately evaluate the ability for increased flow rates to be accommodated downstream. The applicant leads the City to believe that all will be well,provided the City, or CALTRANS, or someone else initiates the necessary improvements and maintenance to correct the post-development storm flows created by this project. Additionally, the applicant has proposed that on-site detention basins would be created in open space areas. Open space as defined in the Government Code; Section 65560 consists of areas of land or water that remain primarily in a natural or undeveloped state. EDC would applaud the applicants concern for open space, if that were indeed the case. However, what the applicant is really proposing is to degrade prime Ag land and pass it off as mitigation. 5. Biological Resources. It is EDC opinion that the mitigation measures proposed are inadequate to protect the plant and animal species to be impacted by this project. In addition we have previously expressed our concern that mitigation/replacement proposals are inadequate for the loss expected (especially BIO-1(f) and BI0-3(d). In summary, we believe environmentally superior alternatives exist and that this EIR is inadequate and urge the City Council to adopt the resolution to deny the applicant's request, which Staff has included as Attachment 5 of the Council report. Sincerely, z��e /1 /� Gordon R. Hensley, Environmental Analyst Page 2 of 2 n 'ING AGENDA DAIS / EM #�� @: uNCIL C) CDD DIR ®<GAO ❑ FIN DIR ' Memorandum regarding the Dalidio Project. ❑'ACAO ❑ FIRE CHIEF :?iT�RNEY E3 PW DIR C ¢I�CCERKIORIG ❑ POLICE CHF To: San Luis Obispo City Council ❑ NiGMT TE41V.4 ❑ REC DIR From: Jan Howell Marx, City Council Member o LITIL DIR ❑ PERS DIR A. THE EIR I have grave concerns about the "Final"EIR and cannot support its certification. It does not provide substantial facts on which to base a finding of overriding considerations which would justify significant unavoidable impacts on air quality, agricultural resources, aesthetics and/or traffic/circulation 1. The FEIR is a flawed document. There IS no Final Environmental Impact Report for this project. We are being asked to certify a document which does not exist. In its present form it is very difficult to read. We need to have one, integrated easy to read document in front of us. We have been given the Draft EIR and the Addenda and the Errata/Responses to Comments,which "collectively comprise the Administrative Final EIR". AFTER CERTIFICATION,the two reports will be edited together along with any other modifications made by the Council, into a Final EIR. This is not acceptable. We need an entire, integrated and indexed, cross-referenced document. The EIR needs to be finalized and recirculated under Public Resource Code section 21092.1. 2. The FEIR is outdated. There have been significant changes made throughout this process in the planning documents and in the city. There has been significant new information unearthed which needs to be analyzed and incorporated into the document. For instance, Prado Road now stops at Broad Street,the Central Coast Mall has been renovated,the Home Deport project has been annexed, and the Chinatown project has been proposed The Auto Mall has plans to encroach on the open space. What effect will this have on the viewshed7 The Airport Land Use Commission Land Use Element has raised environmental standards and should be reviewed in the Final EIR. 3. THE FEIR IS INADEQUATE. It does not adequately address the following: a. Flood Hazard Zone. Paving over this land would lead to increased flooding and require channelization of the creeks. Large open concrete channels will take up land and create an eyesore,plus destroy riparian habitat. This impact has not adequately mitigated in the EIR. The site is located in the flood plane of San Luis Creek. Perf nno Creek south of the site also contributes to flooding because the culvert that passes under Highway 101 is of insufficient size to handle 100 year floods. The flooding study(p 2-29)needs to be done and included in the FEIR. The land should be left in open fields. b. Ground Water. The project would 'increase the impervious surface increased runofl; contamination of ground water and storm water pollution. Groundwater wells on the DALIDIO property have been used in the past as a source of potable water supplies to the City, and should be again in the fixture Open Space Policy 10.2.1. We need to protect our aquifer. c. Air Safety. The FEIR ignores the fact that there have been two airplane crashes on this property, most recently a Learjet. The property lies directly under the extended centerline of the approach for the primary instrument runway fo the FEB 0 6 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL County Airport. The county has expressed significant concerns regarding the safety of this site. The Airport is expanding and may accommodate jets. R. THE PROJECT is flawed. Negatively Impacts Aesthetics. SLO's signature viewshed from 101 to the Seven Sisters would be irreparably damaged by this project. We cannot afford to ruin this viewshed, which is our natural emblem, as Morro Rock is to Morro Bay. Negatively Impacts Open Space. The project does not allow enough Open Space. The Project contemplates only 50 out of 131 acres will be left in agricultural land. (Page 2-47) This is nowhere near"approximately half"of the land as required by the General Plan. Roads are development,not open space. Negatively Impacts Agricultural Resources. The 131 acres are leased out to truck farmers typically for irrigated vegetable crops including celery,lettuce and broccoli, averaging 2.5 crops per year. It yields harvest representing approximately.6 percent of the total harvested acreage in the county per year(32,278 acres). .6 percent of 32,278 is 1,937 acres. So. DALIDIO land is approximately 15 times more productive than average. Negatively Impacts Traffic/Circulation. We do not need to pull more traffic to this location in the City. Negatively Impacts Water Supply and Flood Control. Neither siting development and all of its pollution right on top of our aquifer nor flood consequences of development are acceptable. Negatively Impacts Aur Quality. The reduction in the quality of our air could not be mitigated Economic Impact: We have exceeded the 5%rate ofnonresidential development allowed by the general plan. The cumulative economic impact of this project is unknown. Existing businesses,not just in the downtown,but throughout the city will be impacted The Downtown could be adversely impacted- C. mpactedC. The Project Does Not Address the City's GOALS, The City's most important goal is securing reliable sources ofwater. This property overlies the deepest part of the aquifer and should be protected for water supply and flood control purposes. Preserving open space is another city goal which would be furthered if this land were preserved in agriculture and open space. Development if any should be restricted to the area between the post office and Highway 101. The project does not address the goal for a community/senior center, a convention center or softball fields. The City should work with conservation and grant giving agencies to develop ways in which the property owner would be fully compensated for preserving as much of this property as possible. MEETIt`l AGENDA DATE. -br° ITEM # ANDRE A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION MORRIS ReGeived PETER R.ANDRE(1918-2000) & BUTTERY MICHAEL J.MORRIS JAMES C.BUTTERY FEB (� ) DENNIS D.LAW B O 6+ `U 01 J.TODD MIROLLA SCOTT W.WALL �ro j MARY E.McALLSTER City�/ ci/� S.L.O..L.O. KATHRYN M.EPPRIGHT Administration KEVIN D.MORRIS WILLIAM V.DOUGLASS JEAN A.DAVIDSON OF COUNSEL February 5, 2001 BARNET REITNER,P.C. JOHN F.STUART,P.C. IvCIL ❑ CDD DIR 1102 Laurel Lane VIA HAND DELIVERY E3 FIN DIR Post Office Box 730 ❑ FIRE CHIEF San Luis Obispo D FIR D nen HarnpianC California 93406-0730 Ci of San Luis Obispo LLi1KI0;i;3 ❑ POLICE CHF Telephone 805/543-4171 City P rJ hyi:ITTEAM ❑ REC DIR Fax Number 805/543-0752 990 Palm Street — ❑ UTIL DIA San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 � ❑ PERS DIR 7 V dle_� Re: Hearing to Annex Dalidio Property Dear Mr. Hampian: I am writing to you on behalf of the Dalidio Family with regard to the hearing scheduled for 6 February 2001 to annex their property to the City of San Luis Obispo. The Dalidios have worked cooperatively with the City for nearly ten years to properly annex and develop their property. Prior to the adoption of the revisions to the General Plan in 1994, the Dalidios presented a comprehensive proposal to the City and since that time have complied with both the letter and spirit of the General Plan in their submittals to the City. In mid-August of last year, Mayor Settle requested that the hearing be postponed until after the new Council was seated. The Dalidios acceded to that request and were given the 6 February 2001 date for a hearing. We have now learned that one or more of the members of the Council would like to further continue the matter in order to consider some modification of the proposed development plan or to explore City acquisition of the Dalidio property. This is to advise you that the Dalidios do not request a continuance of the matter and will not consent to such a continuance. This project is undoubtedly the best understood and most studied proposed annexation in City history. It received Planning Commission approval seven months ago. It is time for the City Council to act on the matter. RECEIVED F:1NERDkDALIFAOIXLTR\HuWim.0l.wpd FEB 0 6 1001 SLO CITY COUNCIL A,7�mDtl/ A.PROFPSSIONAL LAW CORPORATION AMORRI�IS & BUTTERY Ken Hampian February 5, 2001 Page.2 We look forward to the 'Council's.action on Tuesday night. Very truly:yours, Michael J. M is MJM:lad cc: Dalidio Family F:\NMD\DA LIFA01\LTR\H.pim.01.wpd 06/31/1990 10:46 6055490"11 JAMIESON:DENKFP1M. N QAGO& 4-01 FAX To: Mayor Allen Settle and Councilmembers John Ewan,Jan Howell Marx, Christine Mulholland,and Ken Schwartz, CIL O co DIR CKW O FIR DIR O FIRE CHIEF February 5, 2001 [Ve-97077F � NEY 0 PW DIR LERKIORIG O POUCE CHF 7ORTCDIR G UTIL DIR Dear Mayor and Council: O PERS DIR We applaud the interest the citizens of San Luis Obispo have taken recently regarding the new Costco and related development questions. e We urge you to vote against the Costco project. If this project is approved it will diminish the quality of life in our city. Sincerely, t/eff Jamieson and Deborah Denker 2546 Victoria Ave. San Luis Obispo CA 93401 I I IJII• FEE-06-2001 10:20 VONS RX#1621 605 931 1666 P.05/05 / ' Y�12 - L L �' u S� -T-TL V D dw �a s- - - y f' s- 2-- RECEIVED RECEIVED FEB 0 6 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL TOTAL P.05 February 6,.2001 Please vote noon Costco and all other big box stores. Sari Luis Obispo's plate is already 11. Because we live in a small town with 17,000 Cal Poly students (plus Cuesta College) we already have traffic, parking and housing issues., In addition, we have all the traffic that tourism brings. Please do not listen.to people from other cities, they do not have to deal with these existing problems everyday. U. RECEIVED FEB 0 9 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL PLEASE DISTRIBUTE A COPY OF THIS FAX TO THE MAYOR AND EACH COUNCIL MEMBER. THANKS . rte: SAN LUIS OBISPO MAYOR AND February 6 , 2001 COUNCIL MEMBERS (805)781-7109 w'1'r 'r1nN: Council Secretary -i (805)781-7119 or VAGNS 04CLUVING THIS CVVXR SH1d�:l' -1- SUBJECT. COSTCO DEVELOPMENT I am writing to let you know that we support the Costco Store in our area. It is not convenient for ourselves or many of our handicapped friends to drive long distances - nor is it convenient for us to park downtown. Please consider all of your constituents when you vote on this issue - there are many, many low to moderate income families in this city and we prefer to shop locally . Costco will not drive downtown merchants out of business - lack of parking will be the culprit . We will be listening to the Council meeting on the radio tonight. SIGNBD gA i (805)756-0519 PHOTS / THE GRADUATE REST -805 541 8137 02/05 '01 15:03 N0.353 01/01 �e graduate restaurants, Inc. February 5, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: Being a business owner in San Luis Obispo, I feel that having a Costco in our town would help our local economy tremendously. The employees that would be needed to operate Costco would help the unemployed in our area; also the revenue in sales taxes would be a benefit to the City. Currently I travel to Santa Maria at least once weekly to shop at Costco and would rather have my dollars spent in San Luis Obispo. I do not feel that there would be a great deal of more traffic in the area; not everyone shops at the same time. Also I feel that supermarkets will still thrive in San. Luis Obispo, since not everyone will want to belong to Costco. Therefore, I urge you to reconsider your position. when the City Council considers the ordinance again tomorrow night. Sincerely, Wi liam. S. Ev t f President 990 industrial Way San Luis Obispo.California 93401-7699 Phone: (805) 541-0700 Fax: (805) 541-8137 FROM : AJ Ent PHONE NO. : 544 1099 Feb. 05 2001 06:55PM P1 February 5, 2001 TO: Mayor Allen Settle FROM Dr. Jack B. and Joy E. Jones 2464 Flora St. San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Ph./Fax (805)-544-1099 Email: lions@calpoly.edu RE Support Costco. My husband Jack and I faxed you early last month regarding our hope that you would vote to support the Costco store, and to vote against the proposed ordinance which would restrict the type of store to be allowed in San Luis Obispo. We assumed at that time that the letter was going to be presented to the entire council, urging vote in favor of the Costco application in San Luis Obispo. Upon arriving home yesterday (February 4) after a month's absence, we were appalled to read this morning's paper showing that the Costco application was denied. Letters to the editor said this matter would be revisited February 6, Tuesday. We have lived and worked in San Luis Obispo City for over thirty years. With the exception of only one or two people with whom-we have spoken, all others support having the tax advantage which would be derived from Costco in San Luis, rather than in Santa Maria. We urge you to support the Costco store with a yes vote, again reminding you of your initial platform for mayor that stated you would support a Costco store in San Luis Obispo. Also, we urge your NO vote on the proposed ordinance limiting the storage of food products which would be allowed here. Sincerely, ?EJone�s SLS'r. Ja B. and Mrs. Jo FEB-05-01 MON 11 : 16 PM PRUL. WHITNEY 770 487 9129 P. 01 5Feb 01 As a hard working SLO resident trying to make ends meet, I am disappointed at your recent decision to ban Costco from becoming a part of our city. We with children and community involvement do not have time for runs to Santa Maria and would rather shop in our own community with the money we earn here. Please take the time to listen to the extremely large majority who want Costco in our community and not the few who seem to be much more influential. You were elected to work for the people, not agaimct nc. PIPacP change your direction in this matter and allow us to shop efficiently. Thanks Paul Whitney 2059 Sierra Way San Luis Obispo, CA 543-8513 RECEIVE© FE-q R F ?nqi Si_O CITY COUNCIL FROM ROUSEHAMILTn PHONE NO. 805 596 0314 Feb. 05 2001 11:10PM P1 Mayor Allen Softie 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo Dear Mr. Mayor, 1 am sending this letter to you in hopes that you will change your mind . Referring to the ordinance that would not allow COSTO to put in their store what they know will sell. This restriction goes against everything I have learned about free trade. Since when is it the City Councils place to dictate what a business can or cannot sell. �. Not only is it not fair to businesses, it is not economical for San Luis Obispo to loss the tax income, the additional shoppers , and the employment opportunities for our citizens. Thank you, James L. Dove P.O.Box 4018 San Luis Obispo RECEIVE® FEB 0 6 anal SLO CITY COUNCIL 0206 '01 09:46 ID:SSF FAX:8052394' PAGE 1 Jan To 2001 F::;'I- - P vv; i City Hall Mayor Allen K. Settle, - We are North County residents and are regular shoppers of Costco, Santa Maria. We would love to see the new Costco find a home in San Luis Obispo. It would be a wonderful addition to shopping in your city. We ask that ynu reconsider your'vote from Jan 16, 2001. Supporters of Costco SLO uie_e.t.rvrly 60/r�6,5- �. E2.+.,kt� s 33� 15. o'a Lilo 18. /0; �4 Cufc 02/06 '01 09:46 ID:SSF FAX:8052394'" PAGE 2 �Q� a 1+1 . W � 43 • 1 Qc esc� G e cay o. r La `-•l G. YS clq. so, sI. 52. 53• Sit. 55 156 . 5�• 58, 6Z. 63 • Ger . (05. RECEIVED 6F. 6 FEB 0 6 2001 � x q. 3LO CITY COUNCIL 72. S. I Y. 75 �6• ?7 :7k. 02/06/2001 09:33 805466a^G6 GARY & FERN JANTZEF PAGE 01 February 05, 2001 Re: COSTCO Dear Mayor Allen Settle Dear Councilmambers Johns Evan, Jan Noxell Marx, Christine Mulholland, and Ken Schwartz We have lived in the County for 27 years. The Costae, in SIA would remedy one of our few lacks--affordable shopping without a long, costly drive. We want Costa*. Keep the taxes in our county. sincerely, Gerhard Ja�ftzef Fern Jantzef RECEIVED FF s n 6 2061 $ALO CITY COUNCIL 06/25/1995 19: 32 E05595?r-06 ROLANDO VASQUE7 PAGE 01 eoS� 78/-71 o y 6A . I� 17 6 i RE CEIVED EEB 0 6 7001 SLO CITY COUNCIL 6"rJ,LOs Fax:8055430386 Feb 6 '01 9:45 P.01 Ne support Costco 100%. Why should we be taking our tax dollars to Santa Marta?SLO, needs these taxes to support our City ind County. We go to costco twice a month becasue the savings on Presedptions alone saes us many dollars. (check it outs Vat to mention when we go to Santa Marfa, we stop W lunch and then shop at Gottshalks and/or Robinson's May. Again Santa Maria is recei%ing taxes I world like to stay here for our economy. We do not think it fair to discriminate ANY storre should be told OW they can&cant sell. Sincerely, Don& Marie Stokes 201 Oakcrest Orme-PO box 2252 k iila Beach, CA 93424, RECEIVED FEB 0 8 70_f I SLO CITY COUNCIL FEB. 6.2001 10:26AM P 1 FROM PROCESSING**** IONE NO. : 800 000 0000 Cynthia R. Scott From: Cynthia R. Scott jcindymessy.com) Sent: Tuesday, F#bruary 06,1001 10:17 AM To. asettle@sloOty.org Subject: Costco Dear Mayor Settle, It is not customary for me to 'write letters on government issues, however since the last election I think it is best that the public make their needs and desires known to those who serve them. By way of introduction I am fairly new to the area, but I lived in SLO 27 years ago when I was putting my now ex-husbandthrough school at Cal Poly. I was one of the Nursing Supervisors at Sierra Vista H9spital during this time. My son was born here as well. I followed my husbands' career to the Bay Area. After 23 years of marriage he decided to terminate the marriage. I lived in Los Altos which is another beautiful community in California. However I wished to establish my life elsewhere. I choose San Luis Obispo for the location as well as the weather. Co- incidentally this was also the time when Money magazine had their lists of great places to live- which named San Luis Obispo. For the most part I have enjoyed my move, however there are aspects to living here that I didn't expect. Many of the local business people have directly spoken to me much as Christine Mullohland. When inquiring about goods and services- it is, "well if you don't like it go back to the bay area. " These are quite simple requests for referrals for landscaping, pottery etc. Needless to say these are issues that do not pertain to Costco per say however I do feel thati competition is never a "bad" thing. Providing choices for consumers is good. The tax benefits are obvious. I also work as a Nurse Practitioner. In fact I choose to work for the "underserved" of This county. Again it is my experience that Costco Pharmacy is by far the cheapest place tfi get prescriptions. If you don't have medical insurance, or your mediacl insurance doesO't pay well (like in the case of senior citizens) this is the place to go. I can fully well understand no!t wanting to create monster stores here, but I also think keeping away added benefits to this area is nonsense. I sincerely hope you will reconsider the issues pertaining to the Costco issue. As a side note I read in the Tribune that there is going to be another Albertson's on Broad- oh ick! Thank you for your time and service. Sincerely Cynthia Scott 340 Montrose Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 805-547-9426 RECEIVED FEB 0 6 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL i Feb 05 01 02: 49p Hilyard Concrete Construc (P05) 489-0927 p. 1 Came Hilyard 231 El Dorado Way Shell Beach, CA. 93449 805-773-1409 City Of San Luis Obispo City Hall Fax 781-7109 Councilmembers Settle, Ewan, Marx, Schwartz and Mulholland Dear Councilmembers, I am contacting you in regards to the recently approved ordinance which would effectively block Costco's application to build a store in the City. Although I am a Costco shopper, I will happily continue commuting to Santa Maria to shop there if there is no other alternative. I am sure the environment will continue to suffer the ill effects from all of the additional vehicles, pollution and use of resources, but so be it. The issue that I am really upset about, however, is the absolute absurdity of the council's protection of a particular union and the council's gall at trying to dictate such nonsense to a long standing business. Rejection of a proposal should be based on objective criteria, merits or lack thereof, not on such a narrow and discriminatory basis. As far as regulation of store size, etc., I thought previous councils tried those kind of tactics with the Central Coast Mall and look at the results; a shopping center that was a financial disaster from the outset. I also do not buy the rhetoric that downtown business would suffer, in fact I firmly believe the opposite is true. After all, when 1 go to Santa Maria I often shop for other things outside of Costco that could be purchased in San Luis Obispo. For the sake of everyone involved please be more honest and open about your motives and the tactics used to implement your no growth philosophy. The people of your city would be far better served. Please reconsider approval of such an offensive ordinance and reject Costco, if you will, for reasons that make sense! Sind�ft� Carrie Hilyard R I �' FEB Q 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL �i y � 1Ao1 FEE-05-2001 06 : 14 PM M AND A WILLIAMSON 805 543 9091 P. 01 �o rlu�foa �1�t'T�, vrreK5 +k9 �➢�lN TINI� 1tl�u Id �.YFJ �u �5 �jl5po , Vv WE KWu) l�tb IM Dvk o"motioll , REOEIVED VVI ✓ �V / � 1� �'1 �'T� � FEB a5 eeei 6LO CITY COUNCIL Mrt >7NG AGENDA DA'i rZ�ITEM # ois����������iu��lillllllll11iIIIIII► counat mcmomnbur-n city Basan tuis osis o, community Seveto meat aE aatmcnt OUNCIL ❑CDS AO Dip 13AO FIN I)[0?1;*.February 5,2001 oR ❑FIR` ;; F vev cL� ANEY 0 FSS[. ❑ CI I.: E;,.I FCL;.,_ :i1F TO: City Council / — ❑Rr:DIR //►��J/ 0 UTIL DIR VIA: Ken Hampian, City Administrative Officer Pegs DIR FROM: John Mandeville,AICP, Long-Range Planning Manag� SUBJECT: General Plan Annual Report Statistics On Nonresidential Growth Staff is in the process of editing the General Plan Annual Report for the year 2000. A resident has requested information from the report, the rate of nonresidential growth for the five-year period ending in 2000. While the report document is not ready to be distributed, work on the data is complete. It is possible at this time to respond to the question without prematurely releasing the unedited document, which won't be available to the public until Thursday. As of last year, the five-year nonresidential growth rate was 1.15%. Growth is based on completed changes in square footage as documented by final building inspections. The General Plan Land Use Element says that if the nonresidential growth rate exceeds 1% in a five-year period, the City shall consider establishing limits. This issue is addressed in the Annual Report. The Planning Commission is scheduled to consider the annual report on February 10. The Report and the Planning Commission's recommendation will be subsequently presented to the Council. The Council will then be asked to direct the staff to do whatever follow-up it deems appropriate. c:. Ron Whisenand, Development Review Manager Glen Matteson, Associate Planner FEE 05 '01 11:1`* 7 COSTCO REAL ESTATE 425 313 81P"G TO 918057817109 P.01i01 Como RMF • VVQITER a DIRECT LINE:6:5313.5290 F"LuaE:625.313 105 February 5, 2001 MEETING Q J AGENDA DATE pI ITEM # VIA FACSIMILE: 805-781-7109 [9a"CAO OUNCIL D]DIR Honorable Mayor Allen Settle 0 FINCity of San Luis Obispo no 0 FIR/T7;T7.�-ORI'NIEY ❑F`'a 990 Palm Street ,�_MORI@ C,FOISan Luis Obispo, CA 93401 s h17ViEn;6 0 REc 0 UTI Dear Mayor Settle: A(I0 PER Based on your inquiries as to the minimum operational needs of Costco in terms of area square footage, we have evaluated our building layout and believe that we can modify our prototypical building so as to limit our"enclosed sales area"to approximately 98,730 square feet. For clarity, to arrive at this number,the areas for receiving, meat and bakery preparation, optical examination, food service preparation, tire installation,cash registers,restrooms,office package,employee break room, and refrigerated freezers and coolers were deducted. Should the council decide it is necessaryto pass the proposed ordinance restricting non-taxable sales in a building,then we believe we would be able to comply provided that the maximum permitted enclosed sales area is not less than 100,000 SF. As you know, we will be investing considerable money pursuing entitlements and approvals and ultimately purchasing a site in San Luis Obispo, all based on compliance with the ordinance. Therefore, if the council should adopt any future ordinance that would be contrary to the proposed ordinance, such that it would prevent our development or continuing operation, there would be a significant adverse economic impact to Costco. Please understand that we do not support any ordinance that restricts what may or may not be sold within a business. However, I wanted to let you know that, should the council adopt such an ordinance, Costco would be able to accommodate its development with a 100,000 SF"enclosed sales area" restriction, as defined above. Sincerely, COSTCO WHOLESALE Jac S. Frank Vic President- Director of Development JSF/vh SLO.SetUeAr.-vd 999 Lake Drive • Issaquah, WA 98027 • 425/313-8100 9 costco.com MEETING AGENDA DATE2 1=ITEM # = Christine Mulholland �✓ -�f`- l City Hall, 990 Palm Street ✓ t✓.. .. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 o t c�:... r Ter..i ❑U0 DID ❑urn DiR ® p Dear Ms. Mulholland, ❑PERS D!R I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna very unwise idea. I believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community' character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all nee protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar spra As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses. And on the rare oc that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it i small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't believe every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities. We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. I here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: Request the EIR be redone. Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever sine first draft (criticisms are printed in the back of the book) Please hold the city staff and EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." The legacy council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask th you consider future generations and work to preserve this land. RECEIVED Sincerely, FEB 0 5 2001 SLO CITY COUI�Cl� Watson Gooch Los Osos 528-1598 0eew 464W 0100 �3yd RECEIVED Torn ana anon Kay 369 Chaplin Lane FEB 0 5 2001 San Luis Obispo, California SLO.CITY COUNCIL c 71- r u The Honorable Allen Settle MEETIN -o "AGENDA eA/ Mayor of San Luis Obispo DATE ITEM # 990 Palm St San Luis Obispo CA 93401 lQ�OUNCIL CD^DiR Phone: (805)781-7417 p3AO ❑FIN C':' ao ❑FIR. Fax: (805) 781-7109 t�noRNEY [3 Fr, e-Mail: asettle@slocity.org i��';:,nRIC. ❑FDLi.•. c;�F Web: http://www.slocity.org/citycouncil.asp ❑ ' • i TEA,..I ❑UD [3 TIL DI TIIII R ❑PERS DIR Dear Mayor Settle: ORM I am writing to you in regard to an E-mail chain letter that I have received regarding the big box store ordinance. I have been living in San Luis Obispo since I was three years of age and am now at the age of 36 and have owned a small business in San Luis Obispo for over 11 years. I also come from a family that has been in the service station business (which is likened to large corporations) in San Luis Obipso since we have lived here. When we moved up here I am told it was a choice for a better style of living in such a great community, and thus this is where we have planted our roots. 1 have Attended High school and Graduated Cal Poly all under the choices that I have made. After graduation I stayed in San Luis Obispo rather than leaving for dot com jobs. This again is a choice. Growing up my family would make a trip to Santa Maria to go to the mall since it was the only one around. We looked forward to going to the mall once a month but never more than that. We would still make our primary purchases locally thus supporting the local economy and tax revenues. The trips to Santa Maria were more of a family get away than just hoping in the car to go down a save a buck. As you know we have a mall and it has gone through much restructuring to hopefully make it a productive venture. I feel that many of the local citizens will shop at our mall but not daily. If it were to be daily it would only cause a traffic and mental nightmare. People live in San Luis for the non existence of traffic so that at the end of your work day you do not go home more stressed from the traffic than the work itself. I also remember a campaign that San Luis did on license plates, "San Luis Obispo come up for air' not Costco. Finally, I believe going to Costco is a choice and a choice that would not benefit the customer on a daily basis. Face it no one is going into Costco to save$3 when you will have to stand in line for 30 minutes. Minimum wage will make you more money than that. Leave the pollution, traffic, and other associated problems to other communities(if they choose). We live in San Luis Obispo because of choice not convenience or for lower prices. Just look at the housing market, the surrounding communities land values are lower and people can move there if they choose to or they can struggle to make it here in San Luis Obispo, it is a choice of the way of life. I don't think that Costco in San Luis is going to benefit anyone's life to any great extent. It is not going to help the homeless and its not going to make the schools any better. Please keep the position that has been made and keep San Luis Obipso a great place to live. Anthony Reynolds SLO Ocean Currents 3121 S. Higuera Suite#13 RECEIVED San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 FEB 0 5 2001 8L0 CITY COUNCIL sanamy,Famumy w,nOl AmarWa ammo:BugManft Page: I RECEIVED 2001 742 Center Street FEB 5 San Luis Obispo, Ca. 9340-5 SLD CITY COUNCIL 1 February, 2001 Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members, I am writing in response to the Costco/Big Box store issue. I encourage you to continue to do what you can to keep this type of business from coming to SLO. People grumble about the taxes-being lost-to Santa-Barbara County by the-fact that people now drive to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. My point would be that our city generates great revenue and taxes from our tourist trade. If we were to loose the special character that is San Luis, then our attractiveness-as-a-tourist destination lessens and we400se that potential source of revenue. Let Costco go to the North County, as I have heard proposed. That way the taxes will be in our county. Atascadero et al. have already started going the way of the big box-stores and they never did have any charm to destroy. Hang tough, Mayor Settle and Councilwomen Marx and Mulholland. There are many of us who think we can continue to get along without Costco. Sincerely, Karen Mead 169 Kentucky St. EEB ED San Luis Obispo 2001 February 5,2001 UNCI1. Councilman Ken Schwartz San Luis Obispo Ca. Dear Ken, I am prompted to write to you after reading in the local paper that you will be bringing the Costco proposal back to the city council for reconsideration of the majority vote. As one of your supporters in the last election and all your previous campaigns, I think it is important for you to know that I and many of our friends here in SLO do not want a Costco in our town. I do not believe that reflects an elitist point of view, but rather a thoughtful point of view. I treasure our downtown vitality. This is where I shop. I know you have the very best interests of SLO in your heart, so please reconsider you vote on this issue. Thanks for you hard work. Sincerely yours, Ellen Harper lJ Cc Allen Settle John Ewan Jan Howell Marx Christine Mulholland i RECEIVED Tom and Mariom 7(gy 369 Chaplin Lane FEB 0 5 2001 San Luis Obispo, California $�„0 CITY COUNCIL 413/o / Z� J �J QG Feb 05 01 12: 59p G and P HRSCRLL 805-924 0503 p. 2 February 5, 2001 Bill Morem, Editor Opinion Page The Tribune P.O. Box 112 3825 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 Dear Editor, `Midst all the yeays and nays about Costo and SLO City, The Tribune has run a large '?aid Advertisement" from the ye-ay side and has run it several times. The payer is not identified Who paid for this ad ? As central coast residents,we appreciate the unique and independent merchants stM doing business here. There are many ways to save money on purchases trade here. The arrival of a giant with more buying power may well threaten the viability of these remaining merchants. So keep up the fight, Mayor Settle and Council, it is worth it. And yes, we'd prefer the pig farm on that site, in all its organic splendor ! Glenn and;aftZaZscaU Cambria RECEIVED FEB 0 5 2001 Peggy Koteen SLO CITY COUNCIL 253 Via San Blas SLO, CA 93401 544-1580 February 2, 2001 Dear Mayor and Council Members: As a 13 year resident of the city of San Luis Obispo, I applaud the ordinance placing limitations on stores larger than 90,000 square feet. I feel that if we can place architecture limitations on stores, such as the largeness of signs or gaudiness(and how did Victoria's Secret ever get that bright pink awning?) of store fronts, then our city representatives can certainly make limitations that keep the flavor of our wonderful city. , Please do not succomb to pressures from Costco and Alex Madonna who have the big bucks to shout louder than so many of us who elected you. Thank you for your time, Peggy Koteen RECEIVED FEB 0 5 2001 January 30, 2001 SLO.CITY COUNCIL 1983 Partridge Dr. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: I am completely opposed to the location of any"big box" stores in and around San Luis Obispo, including Costco. I'm just sorry that such an ordinance wasn't in place before Madonna's Home Depot was approved. The scenic beauty and rural nature of our community and local area are already rapidly declining. If you don't think so,just look at the recent ugly development going on along Highway 101 between Paso Robles/Atascadero and Pismo Beach/Nipomo. This area looks more like LA everyday, along with increased traffic, etc., etc. Man is the only organism that I know of that deliberately destroys his own environment. I hope that you have the fortitude and foresight to stick with your vote against big box stores. The proponents of these stores (many of whom don't even live in San Luis Obispo)ate a marvelous list of questionable advantages of having a Costco here including convenience, cheaper buying, less travel distance, needed tax revenue for San Luis, reduced air pollution, the First Amendment, etc., etc. That all sounds wonderful, but at what cost? In my opinion,the environmental, economic, esthetic cost of big-box development far outweighs many of the so-called benefits. Why?? Most people that I know love San Luis Obispo because of its"rural" environment, great weather, lack of traffic(most of the time), clean air, and other amenities. Yet, many seem tcowilling to jeopardize the main reason they live to save a few bucks. What price are you willing to pay to live in an environment like this? Nothing?? Then, as has been suggested, if all you are concerned about is your pocket book, please move to someplace where you can satisfy that need. I do not believe that big-box development is essential to San Luis Obispo's survival. Traffic on Los Osos Valley Road in the morning and evening is already gridlock. Widening Los Osos Valley Road will do nothing to reduce the congestion at Highway 101 as long as the overpass there has two lanes. The increased traffic produced by Madonna's Home depot and other build-up there and the proposed new stop light will tremendously aggravate a bad traffic problem. Because of this, how much additional cost will there be for everyone using Los Osos Valley Road in wasted time, gasoline, air pollution, etc.? I guess some people don't consider this to be a cost. It may not be to a few individuals, but what about the total cumulative effect? Year, after year? Also, what about the traffic build-up on Highway 101? It's already getting more crowded and I've been stuck in gridlock conditions trying to get to S. County. With more and more cars focusing on San Luis as a destination, the traffic congestion will get painfully worse. Again, this doesn't seem to be a cost to some people who can't look beyond the end of their pocketbook. Try driving on Highway 101 through Santa Rosa some time. i 1 'y` 1s f'ty'' +t `'It Qy.J •4 �. �.14.' �`� f. n 'yw 1i� -- , 1pe� s• r ' J e, V r s �`: r1 y 'i l5 tYKt - 1L n�. •. y \ J I'V4 t '? �`��t"�le . ry,IL• , If, F{ �• - � n.,...lYs {}:y ��.' t olµdP 1'�"t� .r}p � I . 1 y, ,�' t t Ar 1 J _y r The lastlseveral times that Pvedon rtes lieen�ms of gndlock"even rn�midday 3 Thr's rs s , a relaUvel�y small town m a rural arearwdFi 101 as their main traffic route,iltaca`ntan"d]Ilisn R already(happening,here rs t c. er tt'r tr . ..i y ",I.�:.°.+ , '. "✓k.�e'Y �•.A:['�.tL ,'SJt ._ It's myiundeistanding that the size of the localsgovemmentain the 20 yeais'that I have` J " 'r 'lived here has increased at a muchifAs r ate than`ttie growth in population; �WFiatis� f ": X• - ..-v..�lot,� u going to 6e the added cost ingall,of'the servicesPfor this increased development on;L^os� ti r - Osos Valley.Road? Is a�lf of the expected tax revenue that growth proponents raves, o—ut -r n= '� a__"st about going;to pay for this A good part of�.Costco 9,sales�a�e foodritems, h`ow muchl�' sales tax revenue'does this,generate?�It'�s;absurd tots ggst t,hat C �would�" � compete on°equal terms with�`smal1;�il Al stores y •4 - 2 -- rM9 o-j—,nu'�',. 'k— t I"r µ ro i.1 �._� . 7:'�"A1 n. :`1t a 1•.:. F -`,p _ ;J er t r:. , y �• , _ F S._ R rT' s s '•t�.b1�NS ` m j S•c�-'Y_3'�7_rr ~isitay�-2t_Z'id h' -r- i� xtrJ+4n`a G'Y"l+ P •,w a-r+♦ iT c : ve�already received a t)UnCl1fOf self-servingNpropagandal.from Costco abouteall of the ,tip r; , ; wonderful things that they will bnng todSan L:urs Obispo This includes We provide good °'• r -'n v14• 1✓.1. fobs,:, How many of these°good°Bobs a e going to,regwhe subsitlrzed housing ry �r Costco isso hot to.move he`re,and lit srsuchra good neighpor wli y can t they modify Ngo p,.; 110 4 their•store to match local concems? Their arrogant take-rt-or leave attitude is infunaUng 11 rka g b, initself; but,when®you consitler all of;the others costs and lacfc ofalocal control they bnng # W the area, I say, No thanks Golsomewhen nelse and take your big box fnends and art p .r'.q ( i y 1�m. 1•""�4 ) roLt Pr t''` ),' '•)tn ti'�1 �, ��, mentaldywith your • , I. �� ," + 'r� r' � yr it i `<�I -vya ti�.y gc�lXr3¢>,tjT.• „ 3^y a h✓�. $ r , - " , 1 tr r' too { Ra h qq t ✓`Y .SlnCerel�/.P`y „+ ,t u t `.. ti A Yt 7 �I t C^�trF �I '�. >.xrr, t i� n\n F iu)Vcl S:re;ri... ..� 0 _. �e + yl .. .� "' t iIQ r'1rntb` • tt. � _, r i, li,v , d t J .s y • �' ,�::_.J 1• �'Y '� L` i 'va i r ' � 1' t �'"' "'l n v bu m �. R+Plumb,�Professor'Ementus CaI PolyState,university ns r r- ^•vc K'rt rr-are .r iI s a �v:.tr P fess`r .G i t r.r' t I .>a• IY' � r C + •, « e 9, .a, �nx i' i - "-' t 1 I.,.. _ t 1 P rt ,l js!l''1.•F L wt,r Mo- x1a M .�3 r alit :�P•m'f•+¢!' bik ,4.--�- iPlease�r� nclude this letter in the offi Wifimutes f&the San L`ws Otiis o C' ` Council meeting en February 6,2001 Thank your JCr f? 71 y " t -. - tY y�` ` M .�r•,t•.rFt c^ �v',.-�1F^P^kY��r,- �,w)(+•] '^_s•Kr: 1 1: ,�' . l y 4.f i F• J '.IC I ^.tY(,"i YS 1 �I -• " x Yf i{ C t•�d t i! J vex `r t y .. %,. t , - �+ � •a f r'`J�'$r5 �.• n a 4 y'� 1 t �~ 1 7- 4 t yt t .a$ 1 .i.. Ij tea- r^ •r r.i, I'-�.�r�i ' . i- r �sZi✓� tiny' •!. �. b,�?.n'Y, Tr V }' ,Fr y)�II. �I '�,`r. ry ,� t; .v:.1 e •,, .4--._ P<4° ....ter,,. . r� t-•::r°�_ ��,rs,�'-,I :•.,, t , --�-, t 'i ra J2 ./Ity!,r I' iYti.�y pr`•.._y .Q' J FROM the desk of RECEIVE^ JOHN HALLVI JOHNSKI, INC./P ROTH 0 5 2001 6750 AVILA VALLE DR. PH/FX 05/595-78 CA 93405 1aS�� CITY CiOUN y eq"If �si/J,/Jzl S� 0, ,) vz/ Ga/771- 7X�i' RECEIVED FEB 0-.5 2001 3L0 CITY COUNCIL „ TTS OO / g. 121 Ms.Dolores Williams' 1688 HllcrW PI. s, Sen Luis ,CA 93401.2516: RECEI-VED FE-B-0-5-2001- SLO-CIT-Y-CGUNCIL- Mta.Mazde Little �——— —1-l�EC--E"�-V X88 Stanford ,• EUDF San Luis Obispo,CA 93405-1121 per_ u r/.�0T�U�p5 ��- 01 A fir t 1 V�" liNltl L MEWNG ING AGENDA DATES STEM # Glenda Powell 466 Woodbridge St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 RECEIVED [E*eICLAO D^DIF O FIN Diq ❑FIR: "':;[F FtB 0 5 2001oJanuary 31, 2001 o FOLI.;OHF 8LO CITY COUNCIL 0 REI DIR O U71L DIR L]PEAS DIR Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle I am very much in favor of having a Costco in the city of San Luis Obispo, I don't feel it will hurt the supermarkets in this community as it is directed mainly at large quantity items. People will still continue to purchase from Costco so I think our city should get the benefit of the tax dollars that will be generated by having the store here. Maybe we could even get the streets in the downtown repaved if we had more tax revenue. I feel you are doing a dis-service to the citizens of San Luis Obispo by not representing them, but only addressing your own agenda. Thank you and I hope you will reconsider your vote on this project. Glenda Powell 29 year resident of San Luis Obispo i' • .�, i 2001 •.�. WWI �. i• •�• i . :.. i . S / A4 �JZ7F�� C�C11r`kpz ��� !� 17-5 O �el-v T��7 .7 h1[.David Sr � m n Sn3Laie OWpg.C 4 933015936 a II; RECEIILED - ,4 FEB �0' 5 2001 - - ? of -SLO CITY-COUNCI -I ILI Awa. ""7 �' - -�`�er�i- - .�?�-c�-e. ��-r"•� .�_ %moi `r,� ,� �I iI� - ._ -- �/r✓�v- .�G�t�j Q- Chi _ w 7�/O _moi - - . -off e.co fo ar Mr. John H. Foott i {I 1856 Corralitos Ave Sn Luis Obis .CA 93401 III " t V � A71f e ' r . _. .. _. _ _moi\r7 A:•�I_ �.�,1�\'•'i � � �_ I -- ;1:-�'�. .. c.._+Y.}.`_+.e� `•:�'~...r`O '�.��...'.• � '.•ems:,:�:.��_.1 .- __ .. =.+i.'�.ey -'..:���; .. � - - - �`� sw��-?"R e �.7•��� -�y�� -t_. _'u�-'.:�'Sey'w`' �•'�:�i- i ti _ '�\�ri).1�--y' r'v+..1.i�i�Z���_. 1• � F:•- �\_ _r?r"_. _\_ _ .•..^...�'``_ `:' -5'� __.^•,•,•.7._.����.•�i.�. .. -aiz§ .___. it ..n�,^-.��]le--•': rfG w`�`:�'�.3 �n,�S���+�-'-•+.1r+�_, .�nM`'�•;�•.�',],t+•,,� �t,j.���_. �4• �`'�_ _ _�'� _ - _ __. . . ^`�7�4•_�`3 ����� v ...•1h`Y•_`_�'!•s\R,...- ._`��1�.a\R�_••V�`�6_. _•S•"�4 �.-`'••.� ��.^ti.`_Vra`�1�_ �� __ _ I __ _ _ -- •�•�a•.l..ia`:'�1. �•S�'�`�,.`` �� _ -\.��"�e-i.��1.t.i:�'rti�a.'�"7w_,n"4`r `�5�:a-�.L�'k."\�'_ _ _ `i'":"�v _ - I _ _ _ _ - A�•y'.�i ��T.S Iw'14, �.�'_� i�V� ^1'�.�`.��r_ 'V,�4 __ T N�••V1- �t'�'+s.•��4 ,���`�+.��'V_� .ti �� 1- rte.-,•_ .• 1,�'a'.\�. � "ti r..Y_�'"? • .y a,.�,a. ♦ �`` � �1 _.� ad•, � � - -v'.3�•i�v�_•-.'i"-' ''`-._ `�:'1�S'�:'•.- ---�!<`- �' -- --a vii=<' - - �A'3-��'•'t`'S=�i>,'.+�-'--' - ----- --- - ' 9` -_-__.��ae;� �.__._ .�s`w-'•'a.�`.--1�,-_- _•S'.u- _r.A'�!•yti�.a ___ _` '•�`-:. _._..K�^dLa.�+,A.J>.�V__ _� `•J�_:_-r7-- { R ate"��'4``"` �', r•2�:rrh.x .^.'�•� �� •\�r 1 •. "� F,`! T. f. , Feb 05 01 12: 59p G and P HRSCRLL 805-924 0503 p. 1 February 5, 2001 To Mayor Settle and members of the San Luis Obispo City Council: A copy of the attached letter was faxed today to The Tribune. We fervently hope that you will vote to support The ordinance regarding the proposed Costco At the Council meeting tomorrow night. Glenn and Pat Hascall Cambria IJ LV I [CAL IIL11111 +7� � '".or "....'".` C. x ,�s:.�.:�� �:...,, ,,a How n��e ith uilif�eS' debts r v,n ^ V SA�'1t�ywYx� . aid. :ti �l c*adlp,these power plants are tT=g off line a!coincident*the nh a$1I) see tie;pravoking price in�eas " .1's-1111 :x:"}:4. <.. in piaoe es and pourer outages,"he said mom• m 51 Davis,said the FERC W:. s negotia wasn't �. report a thorough Msptad�y�, ;rw � ffldl s claimed tfarw power plants and doing 60 4k . patmi of the ani by phone. B op 'It seems to be,at first glance,a 330. 0�1leS heat semoesi7,hear nom method of 71:0.e771 s7tr ve9>ng, said Mavlgiio. e loss of eciuse of PAM ADVERTME WENT down for :pendent er of the tended a Monday >�voman •But no redieted. YES ON COSTCO . at,a Fed Commis- �� If you would like to see COSTCO in San Luis Obispo, please attend . on in De- the City Council meeting on February 6th at.7:00 PM,when the Council '-�and .� vote on the ordinance that would prohibit COSTCO in San Luis: em down Obispo • t bbmed _ s in the , Mayor Settle feels that "a persuasive majority" in our community do ration of not want COSTCO and we need to let him lmoiv,that this is NOT THE. v suk CASE. Let your voice be heard b atter ' the Ci Council M :m keep yo y durug t9 seting ' :: .. the last on February Sth at 7:00 PM.Be sure and come early to insd e a seat!! •ain and r dams rom con• Letteas to our Mayor and Councilmembers can also send the word that >� we wek;ome COSTCO to our community.Fax or e-mail a letter todzyf ad that Gong for - T. City Nall Fax: 781•i109 . . . : Earnail Addresses: Y Mayor Alien Settle waseftle@slocitV.org - _71 Tit ° ,lohn swan s ewanfsloeity org llarvey Jai Nowell Marx' ` simaru/slocity org 3ft for Ken Sch*adz i UILs wattzCslocity org report ,,�j,,�� Ch�stlAe�n0loiland.; omulhollandQslocltY.org : T,when T00 P-06 ON 6OTLT8L6 f SS3132flM NOZI83n 9£:10 T00Z/90/ZO Richard Schmidt V544-4247 M0214/1 (910:10 PM D1/2 END DATE IN�TEM #A 2 RICHARD SCHMIDT 112 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (805) 544-4247 e-mail: rschmidt@calpoly.edu February 4, 2001 Re, Dalidio Project Feb 6 agenda Please Redo FIR -- Additional Evidence of the Need To the City Council: When I addressed the City Council Saturday on behalf of Friends of the Farm, I listed a tentative inventory of resources on the Dalidio land. When I wrote to you last week, I was highly critical of the inadequacies of the EIR. It is interesting to note blatant deficiencies of the EIR with regard to the signature resources on this land -- the resources I spoke to you about on Saturday. Following is an abbreviated summary of some of these deficiencies. (My list is in italics.) 1. Prime Soil. The EIR consultant, in response to one of my comments, has written that only 109 of the parcel's 130 acres are prime soil. I believe the consultant made up this alleged "fact." The authoritative source for soil typology is the US Soil Conservation Service mapping for Coastal San Luis Obispo County. The USSCS maps show that ALL of the Dalidio land is either Cropley clay or Salinas silty clay loam, both of which are prime soils. The maps show no non-prime soil on the site. 2. Marvelous riparian habitat along Prefumo Creek, providing a home for riparian species of plants and animals, including threatened and endangered species. The EIR gives short-shrift to protecting these resources, stating that whatever's there can be protected by a 35-foot building setback from the top of creek bank. I submit that when we're talking about 130 acres, we can, and should, provide a greater level of protection for a resource of this importance. 3. Readily restorable riparian habitat along a secondary stream. The EIR is completely negligent in dealing with a second stream (parallel to Madonna Road, beginning behind the Post Office), describing it as an agricultural "drainage," when in fact even cursory examination shows it to be a degraded but restorable natural stream. No mention is made of the fact the stream is full of aquatic species; is readily restorable; has a gravel bottom (which is a sure indication of its natural origin, as contrasted with being an artificial "ditch"). A biologist who has examined this stream states it is potential habitat for the endangered red legged frog. The EIR's lack of concern for this stream is manifest in its single recommendation for it -- that there be a 20-foot building setback ❑ 0UNCIL 0c6n—mR Schmidt, EIR Inadequacies in Addressing Dalidio Natural Resource ; ❑FIN C'P NOVA ❑FIR7 CJ�EY D F':l L - Z!' :;ihiL ❑FDLi. �aF ❑ ❑UTIL DIR ❑. 0 PERS DlR Richard Schmidt !5444247 M02/4/1 (910:10 PM D212 along it. This recommendation is totally inappropriate. A wide corridor can, and should, be carved from the 130 acres to enhance and protect this stream. 4. Nesting areas for blue herons and hawks, a rare resource within an urban place. The EIR rejects the recommendation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a large buffer around this unique resource, and pulls.the number 200 feet out of thin air. This level of protection is totally inadequate. The public agency recommendation should be followed. 5. A Monarch butterflyroost. The EIR is mute on this resource. Development is contributing to the decline of this beautiful and once-plentiful species through removal or degradation of its winter roosting areas like the one on this site. The issue needs to be addressed. I URGE THE COUNCIL TO SEND THIS EIR BACK FOR A MAJOR REWORKING. PLEASE COMPILE ALL THE CRITICAL COMMENTS ABOUT THE EIR, TOGETHER WITH ALL THE SCOPING COMMENTS WHICH THE EIR CONSULTANT CHS NOT TO DEAL WITH, AND DIRECT THAT ALL THESE ITEMS BE DEALT WITH FULLY, COMPLETELY AND WITHOUT NEGATIVE PREJUDICE WITHIN THE TEXT OF A REVISED FIR. Thank you. Richard Schmidt Schmidt, EIR Inadequacies In Addressing Dalldlo Natural Resources. Page 2 Ms. Jan Howell Manx MEETING AGENDAITEM # City Hall, 990 Palm Street DATE San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Ms. Jan Howell Marx, I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna very unwise idea. I believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community' character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all nee protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar spra As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses. And on the rare oc that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it i small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't believe every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities. We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: Request the EIR be redone. Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever sinc first draft (criticisms are printed in the back of the book) Please hold the city staff and EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." The legacy council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask th you consider future generations and work to preserve this land. Sincerely, Watson Gooch Los OsosD�DIP p FIN $ ,OUNCIL D;o ❑FIR. F 528-1598 O AF.IEY O �i6 CJ rOli.,_GNF 0 TIL _ r%'��- +,,I ❑r,EDI;� RECEIVED . . . J'... PERS R_ FEB 0 2 2001 SLO CITY CLERK 02/02/2001 20:52 6055431793 PAGE 01 AGEND DATE �n-0/ Um #A 292 Hermosa Way San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 February 4, 2001 Via facsimile transmission -- 781-7109 Mayor Allen Settle Vice Mayor John Ewan Councilmen Schwartz, Marx &Mulholland 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Re: Feb. 6,2001 Council hearing considering City ordinance Limiting food floor space/Costco I am a native of San Luis Obispo and have lived here my entire life. I raised my family here. When my children were young, it was possible to find the necessities of life here in town for reasonable prices. Our stores were geared toward the families' needs. No one traveled to Santa Maria, Paso Robles or anywhere else to feed, clothe and entertain the family. Since I have never lived anywhere else I have seen first-hand the many changes that have taken place, some of which benefited the community as a whole, but many of which catered only to newcomers' demands. When the Council caves in to the demands of a few,very vocal people, the rest of us become disenfranchised. I believe I now must raise my voice. I know many people in this community and the majority of the folks I speak to find it impossible to find stores that can adequately fill their needs at affordable prices. Downtown has little to offer unless you are a teenager or tourist or have the time to stroll around sipping a latte. That sends most of us somewhere else to shop and that somewhere else is generally Santa Maria to take advantage of their major discount stores; such as Costco. Such stores offer the basic household items we all use on a regular basis and at such savings that we would be foolish spenders to not take advantage of what is offered there. If we offered more shopping choices here, we would not only service our own community, but would also lure out of town folks to come and spend. This would increase our sales tax revenue and would generate additional property takes as new stores are built. Our city and our schools would be the beneficiaries of such tax dollars. ]In of limiting floor space for food items in a non-grocery store while allowi WONor space for non-food items in a grocery stare should be obvious. ❑SAO OFIR RNEY ❑PV4 C;c"KK3RIC ❑rouMfl RECO UTILO P9ER 02/02/2001 20:52 8055431723 PAGE 02 Page 2 The proposed location of Costco on Mr. Madonna's "Froom Ranch" is ideal because of the nearby freeway on and off-ramps. No traffic need clog the downtown areas. Please do not do us the disservice of turning our town into some kind of"Carmel South" where only the arrogant and elite can afford to live. San Luis Obispo was always a down-to-earth, family-oriented community where hard-working people could afford to live and raise their families. I want to keep it that way. My fervent hope is that you will reconsider your position regarding Costco and any ordinances that would forever prohibit its locating here. Providing adequate, affordable shopping for the general population is the intelligent choice. Very truly yours, Mary Ann Scalise Ile Nan Jones %7 Cuesta Dr. Sas Luis Obispo.CA 9340 e � i e i r r FEBRUARY 1 , 2r ATTENTION: MAYOR SETTLE & COMMISSIONERS! ! THIS IS IN REGARDS TO BRINGING "COSTCO" INTO SLO. I DO NOT SEE THE BIG PROBLEM, AS I AM DRIVING TO SANTA MARIA TO SHOP AT THEIR "COSTCO". SOME PEOPLE HAVE TO BUDGET TO BUY GROCERIES. YOU HAVE LET RALPHS;BUILD A LARGE STORE WHICH SELLS T.V. ' S, HAS A LONG ROW OR ROWS OF DRUGS, COSMETICS ETC. I DO TRY TO SHOP SOME DOWNTOWN BUT PARKING IS SOMETHING ELSE. MOST METERS ARE 25(P & MOST OF THE TIME YOU GET ONLY 23 MIN INSTEAD OF 30, SO I JUST DO NOT SHOP DOWN TOWN. MS. MULHOLLAMD NEEDS TO KEEP HER MOUTH SHUT IN- STEAD OF MAKING REMARKS LIKE SHE DID WHICH GOT A HUGE # OF US VERY MAD. IN CLOSING I 'D LIKE YOU TO KNOW THAT EVERYONE THAT I HAVE TALKED TO IS VERY MUCH IN FAVOR OF BRING COSTCO IN. LOOK AT THE JOBS & TAX MONEY IT WOULD BRINGINTO SLO. ISN'T THAT ALONE WORTH IT? SINCERELY. . .MARLYN no RECEIVe SEB 0 2 ?n"1 L CIT -:.� January 31, 2001 Mayor Settle, I respect your decision concerning Costco but would like you to know how I feel about your decision. I travel to Costco in Santa Maria. While I do by some food items, my main reason for shopping Costco are for the other products they offer. Most of my food shopping is done at other stores. Having a Costco here in SLO would save me time and gas. This would keep the taxes here in SLO and would promote cleaner air quality to the area. Another reason, and for me the most important, is that by not letting Costco into SLO to participate in America's free market, it seems un-American to me. Also as a business owner in SLO, Brezden Pest Control, I feel that I am being discriminated against. When Terminix, Orkin or Hydrex come to SLO and participate in the pest control industry they are permitted to do so. If you could pass an ordinance to keep them out I think it would greatly help me financially but it would be against my beliefs as an American. Iur ou to allow Costco into SLO for the reasons I have stated above. Jo rezden �;. BREZDCN PEST CC: :TROL 3547 South Higuer^a, #A San Luis Obispo, ce.�iifornia 93401 E ED 9W OUNCIL 02-05-2001 10:13RM FRnM. Boyack Const 805 543 4564 TO 7617109 P.01 FEBRUARY 5, 2041 TO: MAYOR ALLEN SETTLE JOHN EWAN JAN HOWELL MARX KEN SC ARTZ CIMSTINE MULHOLLAND OUR FAMILY SUFFORTS A COSTCO IN SAN LUIS OBISPO@ MICHAEL. G. HOYACK KAREN ROYACK vu u ivlui Turbine Controls Corporation 243 D Granada Drive •San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 805/546-0475•FAX SOS1546.0478 hftp:l/www.huhMe-r-us.00m February 5,2D01 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: I am writing to urge you to please reconsider your vote on the ordinance that limits the amount of square footage a large store (such as Costco) may devote to non-taxable goods. I also ask you to share my plea to do so with the other City Council members. I support, and feel my community should support fair competition and lower prices. I feel that we should embrace business that will provide employment in our county with good wages and good benefits. Please Mayor Settle, reconsider the advice given to you by your planning staff, the Planning Commission and the Chamber of Commerce-don't pass this ordinance! Sincerely, Turbine Conbols Corporation Karin Gray Vice President ZO'd BLVO SVS SOB 'daOD S10dIN00 3NIHaf11 ST:TT ZOOZ-SO-aid 02/05/2001 09:35 805-541-^161 CUESTA SYSTEMS PAGE 01 Mayor Allen Settle COSTCO I am a 32 year resident of San Luis Obispo and our family shops at Costco eight or ten times a year because They have a good selection of quality products at reasonable prices. Both in taxable and non-taxable products. Have you considered the following: we and many others will continue to shop at Costco whether it is in Santa Maria or San Luis Obispo.And most of the time we see other SLO residents,that we know,shopping there also. We are not the only ones. There are quite a few. As long as we are in Santa Maria we normally do additional shopping in addition to Costco such as the Santa Maria Mail,Target, gasoline for the car(this too is less expensive than in SLO),and lunch or dinner,etc. All of these result is also lost sales and sales tax to SLO. we would not do this if the Costco were here. We cause more pollution of the air in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties by driving our cars from SLO to Santa Maria. I guess I do not see the problem in having a Costco in SLO. We loose sales tax,good paying jobs,and quality merchandise with lower prices on some items. And we would not cause our residents to travel 70 miles to shop at a Costco. What is the problem in saving money for some of your constituents,keeping sales tax dollars in SLO,and having additional good paying jobs in our community. Competition is a healthy consideration. The money we save will probably be spent in SLO. I thank you for your additional consideration of this matteeardinance and hope that you, and the City Council members will consider your vote on February 6th. Byron Morris 1637 Carla Court San Luis Obispo,CA 02/05/2001 09:59 605546PDg2 COLLEGE TOWING PAGE 01 Garage Taw�trg Sm LLO �,�.°""" . , Fd ngq s,2flD1 mayor Allen Settle We have operaW a family business in San Luis Obispo since 1928.Most of the people I come in to carltact with daiy, would like to see Caeico in San Luis Obispo. There are fifteen thousand Costco cardholders in San Luis Obispo. This indi mf m many other people feek the same way. We need the properly and sales tax dollars to maintain our oornmunty, instead of those dollars going to Santa Barbara County. I respecifl+llY rs4ued your favorable vote for Costco to come to San Luis Obispo S'imawy, 106 Lee O liedly College Yawing Standard MOM 1921;1999 02/05/01 10:05 FAX 8188927686 TIM PAGE 201 2-5.2001 Attn. SLO City Council Members: (Settle, Ewan, Marx, Mulholland, Schwartz) We Want Costco in San Luis Obispo I don't know if I will be able to attend meeting on Feb. 6th, but my wife and I both are in favor of having Costco be able to build one of their regular stores on Los Nos Valley Road. We frequently travel to Santa Maria to buy groceries at the Costco store there. p.s. We still support our local stores at Vons, Ralphs, Albertsons, Kmart and local hardware stores. Tun & Micki Page Shell Beach, CA Feb-04-01 01 :43P pars s 80P 473 2822 P-01 February 2, 2001 TO; Mayor Allen Settle ]an Howell Marx Christine Mulholland In our opinion the decision by you three members of the San Luis Obispo City Council should be reconsidered and given a positive vote for approval. The plan proposed by COSTCO is not only needed by San Luis Obislx)and the surrounding areas but would be a real financial boon to the economy. It would not be a"tax supported" institution as is a large part of the financial base now. It would be an income producing venture for the area, especially San Luis Obispo. Until you can legislate and control manage and births, you will continue to have growth. We were here when you arrived. Remember? We urge you to vote in favor of COSTCO. Mr.and Mrs_ W_ Thomas Parsons Arroyo Grande, CA (We don't plan to move away . Our combined years of living here - 127) FES-04-01 12 : 19 PM SMThISCARSON 805 589 5406 P. 01 Dear Counci I members, Please reconsider what the people who voted for you want. r early as a thei I have lived in the areas of COe f stt warreho se openedC01PRICE CLUBS CeI saw, quickly, thelbenefits of this resident of San Diego when the le economics type of store for myself and the co and an acute awarenesslof how much waste was in landfills then (quantity for lower price) lust from the "packaging trash" of small quantities. I also admired their recycling on the spot by using old boxes as the carryout containers. I was a single woman teens uet+wam a wifeand mo her now,and so that phlooked ilosophy is evbest en value for myself and th p more important as I stretch dollars further and show my children by example. Later, I grew to know COSTCO as being generous to smaller communities when I relocated to Bakersfield and they came there to open a store. They were generous to many great causes and agreed to carry couon books for fund raisers.ays arranging to accommodatees hood schedul sin onderful work programs forstudents, alw Now I am a citizen of SLO County and I am traveling to Santa Maria to do ALL of my shopping. I hate the commute, the money wasted on fuel, the traffic hassle and most of all, the FACT that ALL THOSE TAX DOLLARS are going to another communities causes and programs. w there �provemeint goods because will t Depot going ahome already be in SANTA MARIA go to COSTCO. P I have only lived here for 18 months but I am detecting a great deal of animosity toward Alex Madonna I don't have any background for what may have happened in the past but there seem to be a lot of council members with a "sour grapes" attitude toward him. I have to ask myself if someone else owned the land, if there would not be a different outcome. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE take another look at what the benefits to this county are before closing the door on a great opportunity. Katherine Carson 872 Dugan Drive Pismo Beach, CA 93449 Feb 03 01 05: 05p CP-Ohilbrick (8051 438-4236 p. l February 3, 2001 Mayor Allen K. Settle and Council Members City Hall FAX 781-7109 Dear Ladies and Gentlemen: RE: COSTCO we wish you would seriously reconsider the ordinance restrict- ing freedom of competition because it is through competition that the downtown has survived and greatly benefited. Without this freedom, where would we be today? We live in the Pozo area and come into San Luis Obispo often on business and shopping excursions. We also own two resi- dences in the Foothill Blvd. area and San Luis Obispo. With the high cost of fuel, maintenance of vehicle, etc. we would prefer to shop at a one-stop store such as Costco, locally instead of in Santa Maria. Thank you for listening. ver�o rs, Clyde Phil rick , 1760 Parkhill Road Santa Margarita, CA 93453 and Gwenyth Ph' lbrick 1760 Parkhill Road Santa Margarita, CA 93453 January 31, 2001 San Luis Obispo City Council Attn: City Clerk 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear City Council, I am so happy to hear that you are revisiting the issue of allowing a Costco in San Luis Obispo. While I do not live in San Luis, I work and shop here. Currently I drive to Santa Maria twice a month to shop at Costco. As a mother of two, it would improve my life dramatically if I were able to shop at Costco here in San Luis on my lunch hour rather than spend my weekends dragging the kids to Santa Maria and through the store. I understand that the local grocery stores are worried about what it will do to their business. From my own experience, I have not decreased the amount I spend at the grocery store each week since I started shopping at Costco. Instead, I find myself able to buy more of the convenience items that I use to not be able to afford. The cost of living in this area is so high, and the salaries are not, it would be nice if there was at least some ways families were able to save money. Please allow me to spend more of my weekends enjoying the beautiful area we live in with my kids. I hope you will all vote to allow Costco into San Luis Obispo. Respect C14 Laurie Jacobson 181 Century Lane Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 a February 1, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle and San Luis Obispo City Council Membere ' 990 palm Street Sen Luis Obispo, CA 95401 Dear Mayor Settle and Council Members: I'm ashamed of aoyself for being apart of the silent majority regarding the ordinance Which you approved on Januaay 16. I didn't feel my opinion was neoessary due to the intelligence and good sense of all of you,but I was shocked by your vote regarding the ordinance and the impending impact it will have on a possible Costoo store in our area. My husband and I have lived in San,Luis Obispo for about 80 years, and we love this city. While we reside just south of the SLO airport now,we still own properttiy within the city limits. We oonsider ourselves a part of San Luis Obispo and have valued its uniqueness since we first arrived We are average folks and need to stretch our paycheck in order to make ends.mast; especially since we lime in this area of high-housing costs. I don't feel that having a Costoo on the edge of town will adversely impact the beauty or smaU- town atmosphere of San Luis Obispo. please reoonsider your vote and think of the majority of the citizens in this town who%do want and need a Costco.You represent and speak for all ad us, and it's unfortunate that your vote did not reflect what most of us apparently want. For years our family has driven to Santa Maria twice a month to shop at Costco.While there, we spend the day, eat at their restaurants, and shop at other grocery stores'and department stores. It's our "day out" during which we do all necessary shopping. Often webs talked of how much easier it would be if San Luis Obispo had a Costco.While we could Bad replacement shopping in SLO for all the other places we.go in Santa.Maria on our "day out,"there's no replacement for.Costco.We'd prefer to spend our dollars in Sam Luis Obispo. If we just had a Costoo here,there would be no reason to go out of town to shop. I sincerely urge you to reconsider your vote. Mayor Settle_If you do indeed listen to the people as you have often claimed,please listen now and change your vote.We're all counting on you to do what is requested by the majority of the residents in San Luis Obispo. Thank you for your consideration and for listening to the folks you represent. Sincerely, Connie Magee RECEIVED 4908 Caballeros Avenue San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 FEB 0 5 2001 emaiL• conniemagee@hotM$Lil.com phone- 808-844-3051 SLO CITY COUNCIL _ I / I% i �. . i II - 1 vx i f D je,�W o-� a C-) &wz'� ll vz RECEIVED FEB 0 2 2001 Mr.and Mrs.H.W.&etzloff 71 Benton Way SLO CITY CLERK San Luis Obispo,CA93405-1717 MEETIi�I , � AGENDA n � ' DATE , 6ITEM # Edward N.fie COUNCIL CI)pDIR 3385 BSTrdnC3CL UtAO 0 FIN DI San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 gACAO 0RK ^':.EF JANUARY 31, 2001 Q47ORNEY D Fl;i Q,'. sf lCi_c;CoRIC ❑FOUi. CHF ❑j,�•CM TE,',1 D RECO DIR ❑UTIL DIR ❑ ` DFL DIR MAYOR ALLEN SETTLE, WE NEED SOME HARD FACTS REGARDING HOW MUCH DO PEOPLE REALLY SAVE WHEN SHOPPING AT BIG BOX STORES . WE OWN A HOME AND 2 RENTAL PROPERTIES IN SLO - DO OUR OWN MAINTENANCE ON THESE PROPERTIES SO ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR THE BEST DEALS FOR REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS AND IF WE CAN SAVE MONEY WILL TRAVEL TO SANTA MARIA TO GET IT. WE HAVE FOUND A FEW ITEMS THAT WARRANT THE TRIP DOWN SOUTH BUT BY CALLING OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES FOR PRICE QUOTES 9 OUT OF 10 TIMES WE BUY LOCAL BECAUSE THEIR PRICES BEAT HOME DEPOT OR ANYONE ELSE IN THE NORTH OR SOUTH COUNTIES YOU JUST HAVE TO GET ON THE PHONE AND DO THE CALLING. AS FOR FOOD SHOPPING (WE LIVE ON THE EAST SIDE OF TOWN OFF JOHNSON) I LIKE SCOLARIS BECAUSE THEY ARE SO CLOSE AND PRICE COMPETITIVELY. I HAVE COMPARED PRICES WITH VONS - RALPHS - AND FOOD 4 LESS AND STRONGLY FEEL I SPEND LESS AT SCOLARIS (THEY OFFER A $10 DISCOUNT PER WEEK WHEN PURCHASING $75 DOLLARS OR MORE AND HAVE A CLUB CARD OFFERING DISCOUNTS ) . I CONSISTENTLY SAVE $15 TO $20 PER WEEK IF I WATCH THEIR SALES - THAT' S HARD TO BEAT. I BUY PAPER GOODS AT SMART AND FINAL AND STOP IN AT TRADER JOES FOR THEIR SALE ITEMS. I EVEN SHOP AT SLO FRESH (ON LAUREL) JUST TO SUPPORT THEM AND BECAUSE THEY ARE SO CONVENIENT. IF WE DON' T SUPPORT THESE SMALLER BUSINESS EVERYONE WILL END UP GOING TO 2 OR 3 STORES ADDING TO MORE CONCENTRATED TRAFFIC JAMS AND MAKING IT DIFFICULT FOR OLDER PEOPLE WHO WALK TO THESE STORES TO MAINTAIN THEIR INDEPENDENCE AND WILL HAVE TO RELY ON OTHERS TO DRIVE THEM TO FOOD SHOP - WE NEED SMALLER STORES SPREAD AROUND TOWN! ! I FEEL A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE THIS BIG BOX WAREHOUSE MENTALLY - AS SOON AS THEY WALK INTO THESE BUILDINGS THEY ASSUME PRICES SHOULD BE LOWER - AFTER ALL YOU NEED TO HELP YOURSELF TO LOAD MERCHANDISE (HARD TO GET QUESTIONS ANSWERED - NOT VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE EMPLOYEES) SO YOU FIGURE IF STORES ARE CUTTING COSTS THEN THE STORES ARE PASSING THOSE SAVINGS ON TO YOU WITH REDUCED PRICES ON MERCHANDISE - I DON' T THINK SO. ALSO, THESE BIG STORES ARE HURTING OUR SMALLER BUSINESS (SCOLARIS BUSINESS DROPPED OFF NOTICEABLE AFTER VONS OPENED - ANOTHER FOOD STORE AND I COULD SEE THEM CLOSING) HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE NEW RALPHS LATELY - PRETTY EMPTY - DO WE NEED MORE FOOD STORES - NO WAY! ! AS FAR AS PEOPLE SAVING SO MUCH MONEY BY BUYING AT COSTCO IN SANTA MARIA - ARE THEY REALLY SAVING. YOU PAY AN ANNUAL FEE OF $30 - TRAVELING COSTS (GAS AND WEAR AND TEAR ON YOUR CAR) , TIME-1 HOUR OF TRAVEL BETTER SPENT WITH YOUR KIDS - I DOUBT IF THERE REALLY IS MUCH OF A SAVINGS TO WARRANT A COSTCO HERE - WHY DOESN' T JSOMEONE DO SOME PRICE COMPARING AND GIVE THE PUBLIC FACTS INSTEAD OF ALL THIS WHINING BACK AND FORTH. WE NEED VARIETY IN OUR SHOPPING WE SHOULD ENCOURAGE BUSINESSES TO COME HERE AND NOTHAVE THE FCEIVED THAT SOME BIG BOX STORE WILL MAKE THEM GO OUT OF; BUSINESS J( FEB 0 5 2001 r SLO CITY COUNCIL 742 Center Street San Luis Obispo, Ca. 93405 1 February, 2001 Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members, I am writing in response to the Costco/Big Box store issue. I encourage you to continue to do what you can to keep this type of business from coming to SLO. People grumble about the taxes being lost to Santa Barbara County by the fact that people now drive to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. My point would be that our city generates great revenue and taxes from our tourist trade. If we were to loose the special character that is San Luis,then our attractiveness as a tourist destination lessens and we loose that potential source of revenue. Let Costco go to the North County, as I have heard proposed. That way the taxes will be in our county. Atascadero et al. have already started going the way of the big-box stores and they never did have any charm to destroy. Hang tough, Mayor Settle and Councilwomen Marx and Mulholland. There are many of us who think we can continue to get along without Costco. Sincerely, tR Karen Mead January 31, 2001 To: SLO Mayor Alan Settle From: Bob McAfee 1154 Leff St. SLO 93401 Dear Settle, Thank you for your vote against the Costco corporate box. I am aware, mayor, that you are a considerate and thoughtful man about this and all issues. I wish you well. Thank you for your many years of service to this city. Sincerely, � � Bob McAfee RECEIVED FEB D� 5 7001 E O CITY COUNCIL Feb. 1, 2001 Dear Mayor Settle, This letter is in regards to the "big box" issue. Please don't give in to developers or those who are so short sighted that they would pave over paradise to save 25 cents on a six pack of green beans. We have lived on the Central Coast for almost 20 years, and this area and our quality of life needs to be cherished and protected. Please stand up for those who value our quality of life and small town atmosphere. Thank you, Bob & Kathy Duncan 2780 Juniper Morro Bay, Ca. 93442 RECEIVED FEB © 5 mol SLO CITY COUNCIL 77 'yl�` f ¢ i.. e7r ti� r. r,< urs� � w�. .+ d..0♦- 4 •r"`{I��}��f't [�'� �� �' �u•+ i<�,..�..}+e.,[, .�5' c FAY �� ��'�`°i1'��1'..�L��� `t � f�+'3*�4l��j-j����r�'.i,,lL'� ..�•�/{��" PIJ it ' � �,:,�,t,a �c��� � E�a �v,y�_: . ���+�+,�,����z ,� :-�r°���}�•7� c .. F h..� ! �-• til- r .Y n.,:,., f � � .-' � . . . ,;111T•�� F_ryl To: Mayor Alan Settle Christine Mulholland Jan Howard Marx Ken Schwartz John Ewan Fax No. 781-7109 From: Stevc Crandall 1880 Santa Barbara St, Third Floor San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Date: February 3, 2001 RC: Costco I am onvo� to big box stores, including a Costco, in San Luis Obispo. I greatly appreciate the vote of Christine Mulholland and the others on the Council who voted for an ordinance prohibiting big box stores. Their vote was the right thing for maintaining.thc genuine sense of community that makes our town unique. Sincerely, ,Steve Crandall LO' d 9LLZ-S6S-909 MELUV-A� V9Z = L0 10-VO-gad Feb-03-01 04: 36P cran' 3w 80E -595-2778 P. 03 To: ✓Mayor Alan Settle Christine Mulholland Jan Howard Marx Ken Schwartz John Ewan Fax No. 781-7109 From: Marian McGuire 6735 Avila Valley Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Date: February 3, 2001 Re: Costco and other big box stores! I am writing to express my GRATITUDE to those on the City Council who voted AGAINST big box stores. I do NOT want Costco or other big box stores in our town of San Luis Obispo. SLO is a very unique town in which individual businesses, run and owned by our fellow community members, can thrive. People know one another and care about one another. There is a valued sense of community, rather than anonvmitv_. Bringing in the impersonal "mega-stores" will alter our community for the worse— and we will simply become another "every other town, U.S.A." Thank you for your tremendous foresight in caring about the long- term success of our community. Voting AGAINST big box stores was a great decision! Si�C@rer , 77> L. Marian McG Guy Steward 1053 Islay St . San Luis Obispo California 93401 February 1,2001 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm St . San Luis Obispo California To Mayor Settle, I have lived in Old Town for a good portion of my life, when the Safeway/Vons closed and left the neighborhood; grocery shopping became a miserable proposition. Due to San Luis f t was more convenient to vuiallo s traffic problems , nick-up� r groceries when working in Atascadero or Morro Bay . At the time, the City of San Luis Obispo and its hamber of Commerce did not seem tooconcerned a major grocery store was leaving this area of town. Even the remote possibility of say , Scolari ' s being put out of business; would be a tragedy . Thank you for your time Guy Steward RECEIVED FEB 0 5 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL CHARLES J. S ®RNI 772 JOHNSON AVE. SAN LUIS OBISPO CA 93401 Telephone 1-305-54:-8°65 2 February 2001 Dear Council; This is my two cents worth regarding Cosco or any big box store company attempting to locate in or near the city of San Luis. Keep them out as long as you can. I am a native of San Leis as were my mother and father natives of the county. I was -ritness to Home Depot (sorry for the comparison switch but these stores are all the same) corning in to the city of Colma years ago. They have a tremendous business going. Now all the small hard ware stores are gone and Home Depot prices are no longer a bargain. These stores only shift the business to themselves. The community gains nothing. Tax money only shifts. Employment shifts. Profits shift to the company's head quarters which is out of state. We are relegated to the packaging, model and brand these stores can make the most money on. Soon I will have to drive to the other end of town for my hardware. Funny what a little money Zvi.". do. I don't think I will have use for San Luis for many more years(72 now)but I would hate to sac;lice any part of this toiN•r.to the effects of a big box store. Santa Barbara has held on their down town by putting the big boxs out in Ila Vista. Perhaps there are some San Luis residents that would like to move to Ila Vista to satisfy all their requirements for living. V`...y do I have the feeling that most of the letters to the editor in the Tribune are contrived? Your council job is not easy and I personally admire the stamula and clear thinking that you exhibit. Thank you. Charles J. Stoms RECEIVED FEB 0 5 2001 SL CITY COUNCIL FEB- 5-01 MON 13 :26 788278336537337446 626.7997177 P. 01 F A X TO: Mayor Allen Settle and Councilmembers John ,Ewan, Jan Howell Marx, Christine Mulholland and Ken Schwartz . . Dear Mayor and Council: Not being residents of San Luis Obispo is an insufficient reason to remain outside the fray regarding "COSTCO" and other oversize box-stores attempting to invade our community.'• ' We are frequent San Luis: Obispo shoppers, and never feel the urge ' to drive to Santa Maria to wander through .the squalid warehouse interiors of the big-box-stores . The massive acreage-gobbling and gracelessly-designed box stores represent a cancerous blight on w} atever community ' their appetite directs thefn to invade. Where is the ethical proof that a city can successfully encourage a "big-bbx6r" to plan' and erect an en- tity that •contributes to our Cultural and architectural resources. rather than diminish them? Is your Planning Commission and Archi- tectural Review' Board strong enough to facilitate the creation of an exemplary"combination of planning and architecture on the 'game board of this 'proposed development area? Please protect what remains of ;theIbeautiful San Luis Obispo. 'am bience, 'both natural ' and built. Defend the nationally recognized ' urban environment that we are graged 'with. Find the courage to continue to resis,t• the efforts orchestrated by COSTCO in having ' their "members" ,and others barrage you with letters 'supporting" COSTCO, at well as threatening each of you with recall for dis- agreeing with theirposi tion. Sincerely, . r Stuart and Stephani, Denker 1347 Pasadena Drive ; Los Osos, , CA 93402 - COSH Ww. Q�VSF�vS�, ®WEIOLESALE January 26, 2001 Dear Costco Member: On January 16, the San Luis Obispo City Council voted 3-2 to If this ordinance asses: permanently prohibit Costco from coming to San Luis Obispo. This ordinance is backed by supermarket unions who want to eliminate • Costco will not their competition.The supermarket unions convinced the"swing vote," be allowed in Mayor Allen Settle, to support the ordinance.They argued that Costco is San Luis Obispo bad for local employment despite the fact that Costco provides higher .Your city will 1. a the wages and benefits to its employees than the union contracts provide. economic bene t of more Mayor Settle voted contrary to the recommendation of his planning staff,the Planning Commission, the Chamber of Commerce, and many than half-a-mill dollars of you, the citizens of San Luis Obispo. per year in sale tax x rev m ostco. We still have hope!The City Council will consider the ordinance again *San Luis Obispo residents on Tuesday night, February 6, at 7 p.m.We need your help to convince will be forced to pay Mayor Settle to change his mind and eliminate his support for the higher grocery and unions'ordinance.The only outcome of this ordinance will be to drugstore prices as a result prohibit Co vides. of a non-competitive This ordinance takes away your right to decide which businesses environment. you want in your community. "�L A large portion of San Luis Obispo businesses and residents value the Costco is a good neighbor, and will benefit San Luis Costco shopping experience.We do not believe that your City Council should dictate the types of products and the prices that can be offered Obispo in many ways: to you. Please let Mayor Settle know how you feel on this issue! -Costco has always Show your support for fair competition and lower prices by been a good corporate doing the following: citizen in every community where . • Contact Mayor Allen Settle by telephone at(805) 781-7417, we do business. by e-mail at asettle@slocity.org, by fax at(805)781-7109 or by mail at 990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo,CA 93401. -We deliver quality _ products at great values. • Attend the City Council public hearing on Tuesday night, February 6 at 7 p.m.at the City Hall Council Chamber -We provide good jobs. located at 990 Palm Street. My thanks in advance for any help you can provide, and most importantly,thanks again for being a Costco member. Yours very truly, Jeffrey H. Brotman Chairman P.O. Box 34535, Seattle, WA 98124-1535• (800)774-2678 • www.costco.com mmem '- 3 /- O/ Ila. .ate.. Yom- I V ©-rQ� v r U , SLOB RECEIVED F F.8 0 2 2001 SLOB Ca SLO CITY CLER1. cosysco. o�USF,vs =WNCLEMLE January 26, 2001 Dear Costco Member: On January 16, the San Luis Obispo City Council voted 3-2 to If this ordinance asses: permanently prohibit Costco from coming to San Luis Obispo. This ordinance is backed by supermarket unions who want to eliminate • Costco will not their competition.The supermarket unions convinced the "swing vote," be allowed in Mayor Allen Settle,to support the ordinance. They argued that Costco is San Luis Obispo bad for local employment despite the fact that Costco provides higher -Your city will 1. a the wages and benefits to its employees than the union contracts provide. economic bene t of more Mayor Settle voted contrary to the recommendation of his planning than half-a- ' on dollars staff, the Planning Commission, the Chamber of Commerce, and many per year in sale tax of you,the citizens of San Luis Obispo. reve om ostco. We still have hope!The City Council will consider the ordinance again -San Luis Obispo residents on Tuesday night,February 6, at 7 p.m. We need your help to convince will be forced to pay Mayor Settle to change his mind and eliminate his support for the unions'ordinance. The only outcome of this ordinance will be to higher grocery and prohibit Co ides. drugstore prices as a result of a non-competitive This ordinance takes away your right to decide which businesses environment. you want in your community. A large portion of San Luis Obispo businesses and residents value the Costco is a good neighbor, and will benefit San Luis Costco shopping experience.We do not believe that your City Council should dictate the types of products and the prices that can be offered Obispo in many ways: to you. Please let Mayor Settle know how you feel on this issue! -Costco has always Show your support for fair competition and lower prices by been a good corporate doing the following: citizen in every community where • Contact Mayor Allen Settle by telephone at,(805) 781-7417, we do business. by e-mail at asettle@slocity.org,by fax at(805) 781-7109 or by mail at 990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. •We deliver quality products at great values. • Attend the City Council public hearing on Tuesday night, February 6 at 7 p.m.at the City Hall Council Chamber -We provide good jobs. located at 990 Palm Street. My thanks in advance for any help you can provide, and most importantly,thanks again for being a Costco member. Yours very truly, Jeffrey H. Brotman Chairman P.O. Box 34535, Searle, WA 98124-1535• (800)774-2678• www.costco.com OIC0601 �r - 3 /- 0/ Q� II o-r G� RECEIVED F E� 0 2 2001 SLo� Ca g3�oi t�S — -76 7cL— SLO CITY CLER,- ZFAaKk 4xd cvilgiKia Petal 6163 Alta Mina Lane San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 Phone: 805-781-9201 Fax: 805-543-8901 E-mail: pekargf@aol.com February 1, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle City Hall 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: I enclose an article from the Los Angeles Times for your perusal. It talks about how customers dislike the traffic and long lines at large warehouse stores like Costco and prefer instead to shop at stores like Smart and Final. We have a Smart and Final;we do not need to add the potential congestion of a Costco to our fine city. Please standby your previous vote on the big-box ordinance and protect and preserve our city. Thank you. Sincerely, ��� d � Frank and Virginia Pekar RECEIVED FEB 0 2 2001 SLO CITY CLERK - ,42__ -- - r f i ti n F � i l i r 0 r{ . _ _. •. .. .- .... 'a7^ a ___ -._.,. Pllalae by CON BF.765 i Im Mgel®'LYm®. "There was no question that some very basic miad`e, says Smaftf&.Fnal CEO Ross Roeder of expansion. . & inal'Is lrviri With-Ease.- - _ Grocery;ERpansionpushed- .-' t3le_sinaller warehouse chain into :. 'the i'4 but conven' ie-npe and t :.productsanetulningitaround While grocery stores have-been batt, Wed by the proliferation of huge ware `"w house Iclubs such'hs'Costeo and Wal= �I ISI ii Marfa Sam's CIWl'the pint-sizze ware- S. houses of Smart&Md.have flourished i in theirshadow,siphoning away business from customers who have become disen- i chanted by the long lines and parking lot congestion Its nondescript stores have no bre•cen ters, snack bars'or.electronics depart-' menta,lust unglamorous items such as to ons of Smart&Flnal's newest store in Covina showcases its roomy,organized.aisles. 2f►pound bags of pinto beans,gallons. ._. mY. � .• . . . private-label barbecue sauce.and 200 count packages of plastic cups.But the tion and has for years befuddled analysts, the Cash&Carry wholesale grocery chain 220 stores have one key advantage thqr manufacturers and competitors allke. . in 1998. ; huge competitors don't:convenience..... :Even if the food industry doesn't know Although its stores are only about I come here 66iise I don't have to:.quite abAt'&ihike of the 330-year-old 20,000 square feet--a fiaction'cf the size wait-16—hu lines'or.desl'wlth the traffic chazti,:�vinch trades as SMF on the New of Costco'e 130,000.squa &!oot stores- -at Costco,"wid Janice BFistos;who shops. York Stock Eacbehge ite'76ncept frnWll they captain more thaa.four times the at the Covina Smart'&F irw for cleaning. seems to be citcking witliconsi]mers,ems• Fi mb of-Costco's1 b00 food items and a eupplle for her baeinese and pirlte up cif "pecialty afteir tLe•fIItroductiori of Its new=large—II er of cleaning sdpplies and pa - feeaadethergncerlesjothemome � ad _entl�s consuati�e Rs3o met products that the big!."ovses: The'Compreibagedflompaityeeems.,, shopwhPreZhePmsalmayl8ave doIIicany a° ?.r' �, fa-bade finally righted itself after a poorly + Consumers have becgme gTpe addition oT a•piodnce aisle,cute of r. •.r ^ eapanaion to F9onds�Wjl id der" comfmisilee nth werehouee meaE,Piemi>ynl wine and emaIIer sized. 1 t xiYirarEers of feet yesr.a3mart ttea also r641 RWU�4996wln:&'arecent y. 9AC ^t�en rn 3999 trays helpedattract uet ae` � "" gain ting grocery oper&l s 9lore'eaee were ttti 6 ,`to 9elioppied'ataam�iee dub at lest once lbstco'tiegati using Rheee items to V�1Y1 bila" and ems{_ khat yi ;„p 4o 9 9b idlss7: ; s customers await'from aupermsekef. . .+fie IDOrE't f1011lf�. t0�.9�Dll 6n �feaIIl ll�ler.7h�C,IIl11111*Of 610.1t2i1.hC--P8 0' y,,.c_.t �, r'j .•;. '•.` from$3mr�mninthe'$09&iod.W ' supermarket hevetbeen�dgcllningrslip; ,�'"Ihey�epmidi some progress liere the;ealea> _ _IcaII�he atliib'ti. �ipn�B;�so}�10t aa°>ral>?i 941 8 t°yt Dg� "ea`tLd J�am1athan t all. CarYii -r •y��1,YT 6 '�ieOler�$aGii{. wiYi�i{6mOtt•. `:tos" w��o"cmm't s}iate e�me eti't 9ntl f: �Rt_L;theompatty�aCit in th7ackrt604Y °l + e�1y on the t the'scleaninB� '&F'1naF , bII ifaas ltaS� right Path i A{ FYance'�largest '� i:-+S�torrer ��.� `tractffe b where itibmtght ^ ' P1eMa seeslildRE,zCS' 'Wy�a.a: 7Y9p :F'a.y 3 'tea".-`..:+..r`."vt.y�-1'TFJ-L.'�'•-'t" .4, $I..L r_ ..r :-i '. :�5-N•r9.i.Y'cy�n i�s'..r'•s.'r r•.i:'r^..�:.. _ ..:. .: _ .., -r DS'- NGELES 1I11ES _. E: Shoers Turn_STORto sma Continued from Ci across the country to Florida,"said. club consultancy.. market chain-to begin,buying.up, .Roeder; a board member who'was. . Their mix of products is cer- more shares,.prompting another .j: enlist&:'to clean up`the• meual ssy tainly.unus , from its wide selec round of takeover rumors.. ,Florida expansion and'in 1998 hired .tion of gourmet cheeses.to massive Ross Roeder, Smart & Final,: as.cbief executive. "There was,no 'containers-of pine,cleaher •casesW ':.chairman.and chief executive,says question that some very basie mis- candyanti commercial gas staves: these'-rumors have persisted for takes were made.",;' . ;:n; Al though some locas� tibnapj e , years, and he knows.of no immedi-- Those mistakes included open- to be a jumble_of-bargain.buys.or ate plans by Groupe Casino to- ing just a handful of stores across . close-outs,.its new:stores are much kr_est control of the company. - an: area where- they'•`were knot more.organized; with clearly la- Ziegler, however; says the com- known, requiring an expensive ad- beled,sectibns aiid'angled aisles -pang needs to be taken private by vertising campaign. with big:sighs on;the'_end.showing Groupe Casino or .sold entirely. Moreover, its.Florida food serv- the prices of its biggest-movers. Groupe Casino's stake, amounting ice company, Henry. Lee: Co., The stores to b6'bWf this year ' to about 60%, has dampened inter- dipped into the,red in 1999 after it also will contain test kitchens,Roe- est in the stock and hampered the had trouble integrating.the stock der says;where chefs,tan,demon- co pany's efforts to raise capital in . from its:stores, and as some of the strate the equipment and.products the public.market. customers it was carrying did not the store sells::: The stock's 52-week high, : pay their bills. Despite. its'—recent.. stumbles, reached Monday, was $9.94. .It Although the company appears Smart&Final;can boast;one of.the closed at $9.31 on Wednesday, to be back on solid footing,it's still .Ibngestitrack'`tecords of any food down 13 cents. But the price-is less - not'without'its weaknesses. Smart store California.The chain traces than:half what it was in 1996, be- ' &Final°s food distribution business. its.roots hack+130`.Bare to grocery fore the company embarked on anis•still:more potential than profit,. store`HeUl ,'EL*,Co:. in down- ' aggressive expansion in Florida, many of its Southern California to Los.Angeles one-of seven which pushed the company into the stores are old and badly in need of businesses listed in the first L.A. red.for the first time since it went updating, and it.still lacks-'strong phone directory. public in 1991: . . identity. Although today's Smart & Final "'In hindsight, you c6uld'say too Nobody knows what they are,' be=,little resemblance to that'op- much was attempted at once,or ask said Glenn Llopis, :of -Power. In- eration,::it-his,revived the Iris Why did they have to go all the way sights, a Brea-based warehouse name,a private labelintroduced by that grocery in 1889. 'The Smartt.Final.name came • al .- n1915, vhfl J.S.smart and, H.D.ggVW,a:cnpe of transplanted Midwesterners eager to introduce tl%e',gas h-an d-;carry".concept,to. Los-Angeles; bought.,a small,gro ! eery and named it after themselves. Smart & Final,now ranks 21st among Los Angeles County's larg- esi public companies,.according to. the Los Angeles Business Journal, with 220'stores and a'large fopd dis tribution,business, serving rostau- rants`in;'NorthOta California'and _ 1. MEf 'G AGENDA DATE ITEM # _ Honorable Mayor and City Council, couvcii o CO- DiLl 7 ❑FIN C'" From: Dave Romero Rrl&ArTO ❑FIR; � CYFr.TOR?iEY O F':. i Subject: Thoughts and Observations on Froom and Dalidio I J ?4 T , ❑r� on J g �laa�.�C'fE ❑UTIL DIR Developments. Meeting of February 6, 2001 ❑PERS DIR With every City Council action, Councilmembers must consider: a) How does this action promote the greater public good for SLO? b) What are the risks and possible consequences of the action? a) With the proposed ordinance, is the greater public good served by: 1) having two 75,000 sq.ft. stores in place of one 150,000 sq. ft. store? 2) protecting future jobs of the grocery workers union as opposed to the Teamsters Union (Costco)? 3)Using City regulation to restrict competition between business (Costco vs Vons, Ralphs or Albertson)? 4)Expanding City regulation to dictate percentage of floor space inside a store devoted to uses all permitted by the zoning ordinance? Are small stores next? Although there may be some limited benefits depending on your point of view, I find none to justify such an encroachment into private enterprise. b)Consider risks and unintended consequences which may result because of the ordinance: 1) Costco (which many people like and patronize) may pull out. 2) Alex Madonna may decide that the City is just too much trouble to deal with, stop the annexation and develop in the County. With a sympathetic Board of Supervisors, there is a good likelihood of the County changing it's non-taxable sales ordinance and approving a Costco. If the county non-taxable sales ordinance is not rescinded, Mr. Madonna can certainly find large retailers such as Walmart and Sams Club to occupy the large commercial lots on the property. Mr. Madonna can solve the sewer and water problems, and will be much less likely to ever annex to the City. The developers of the Dalidio property are also likely to give up on the City and will process their development in the County. This RECEIVED FEB 0 2 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL might well leave the City without the interchange, the open space, the Senior Center, and playing fields now offered. Should both of these possibilities take place, the City would have blundered into the worst of circumstances, suffering all the negative effects of the developments, with no control over the quality of the projects or offsite improvements, and receiving none of the millions of dollars/year of sales tax. 3) A great number of SLO voters will be upset with the loss of these developments inside the city, loss of city control, loss of amenities and offsite improvements and loss of tax dollars. This might well lead to a referendum, something the City tries very hard to avoid. Considering the marginal public good and the possible huge negative consequences, it is clear that the possible gain in passing this ordinance is simply not worth the risk. I urge you to reject final passage. MEETIN� b 0 i AGENDA C� Ken Schwartz DATE ITEM # City Hall, 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Mr. Ken Schwartz I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna very unwise idea. believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community' character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all nee protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar spra As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses. And on the rare oc that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it i small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't believe every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities. We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. I here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: Request the EIR be redone. Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever sinc first draft (criticisms are printed in the back of the book) Please hold the city staff and EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." The legacy council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask th you consider future generations and work to preserve this land. Sincerely, R'CQUNCIL pip- - f3 .� ❑F; . / 0'/.;;',0 ❑Fi:.' Watson Gooch 61'G� ❑ UTIL C;3 ri ❑�Fls rnq Los Osos J. Sha&is 528-1598 RECEIVED r E B 0 2 2009 SIA CITY Covmolt , M[ NG AGENDA DATE ITEM # January 31, 2001 I URGE YOU TO READ THIS LETTER AND PASS IT ON TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE. On Tuesday, February 6,the San Luis Obispo City Council will meet at 7:00 PM at the City Council Chambers. At this meeting, they will have several items before them on a"Consent Agenda." This means,unless there are any objections to the consent agenda, they will vote that the "Consent Agenda"be adopted. One item the Council may be adopting is an ordinance limiting the floor area of non-taxable goods in retail warehouse stores exceeding 90,000 square feet in size. On January 16, 2001, the City Council voted 3-2 to adopt this ordinance. The Council adopted this ordinance despite the recommendations of the Planning Commission which did not want to prohibit the growth of the free enterprise system in our community. When the Council adopted this ordinance, they blocked the plans of a Costco being built in the City of San Luis Obispo. Costco had been considering building a store here, and now is unable to do so with the restrictions handed down by the City Council. I want to tell you why you may want to either call, write,or e-mail your City Council members and especially the members who voted against the ordinance to reconsider their votes. I also urge you to attend the City Council meeting on February 6 to speak up if you do want a Costco. It may be a lengthy meeting,but it may be worth your efforts in the long run. ■ First, Mayor Allen Settle, in a television interview earlier this week claimed that it was mainly residents in other communities, such as Los Osos, Morro Bay, and Atascadero who want a Costco and not the residents of San Luis Obispo who want a Costco here. I disagree with the Mayor. I have found out during the last month that there are 15,000 residents of San Luis Obispo who have Costco cards. This indicates to me that a sizable portion of our City's population would want a Costco here in San Luis Obispo. If you live or work in San Luis Obispo and want a Costco, you may want to contact the Mayor. ■ At the City Council meeting on January 16, when the above ordinance was adopted, one of the Councilmembers in her dissention told the audience that we should look to Trader Joe's as an example of how a smaller store could be operated effectively. In a televised debate on January 17, Councilmember Jan Marx stated that we should look to Trader Joe's as an example of how a small W o j sized store could be effectively operated. I disagree. We all love Trader Joe's, but the store is > �. 0 really an eyesore. It looks lice the slums of a large city. The parking lot is crammed and divided W c., v 1 into two parking lots. The employees have to operate from at least 3-4 other outlying buildings IU m because their main building does not have enough room to store their merchandise. Employees UJU can constantly be seen walking outside with carts because the City of San Luis Obispo has stingily 0 allocated them a pittance of what they deserve. Trader Joes' new store in Arroyo Grande should id be proof of this. The aisles at San Luis' Trader Joes are overcrowded with people trying to shop and pay. We cannot view the merchandise, for fear of bumping into someone else. At the Council meeting on January 16, Councilmember Marx proposed that Costco build two smaller stores in San Luis Obispo so that Costco could comply with the City Ordinance. This would be an economic waste and totally unwise. Can you imagine our City trying to turn a Costco 1 into something like Trader Joes? If you don't want another crowded Trader Joes, you may want to contact Councdmembers Mulholland and Marx and ask them to reconsider their votes. ■ We are constantly hearing on the news about rising gasoline prices, gasoline shortages, blackouts, and rising energy prices. Why doesn't San Luis Obispo take the bull by the horns and do something about it. As stated earlier, there are 15,000 Costco cardholders who live in the City of San Luis Obispo,there are 5,100 cardholders from Atascadero, 5,600 cardholders from Paso Robles, and 3,300 cardholders from Los Osos. That is a grand total of 29,000 people who travel to Costco Santa Maria to shop. With that many people traveling, say possibly one trip a month(probably more!), we are consuming approximately 1-3 MILLION GALLONS OF GASOLINE ANNUALLY and spending $2-6 MILLION TO PURCHASE THAT GASOLINE. Our community could CONSERVE that energy by not restricting a Costco from building here. These figures are staggering! If you want to conserve energy, contact our Council. ■ On January 17,the San Luis Coastal Unified School District began holding public meetings because$3.5 million must be slashed from their budget next year. Has our Council considered that if a reputable business, such as a Costco, were allowed to build here,maybe there might be a small amount of money infused back into our school system. The Council members who voted to restrict the growth of Costco were very short-sighted in what could be done to help our community. For example, if Costco were to build here and it cost them$1,000,000 to build their store, 1%would be taxed for property tax, or$100,000. Sixty-three percent(63%) or$63,000 of that would go back to the schools. The schools might be able to hire back a nurse or a teacher they are laying off next year. If you think a Costco might possibly help our school system, contact our Council members BEFORE TUESDAY. ■ In all fairness to the Council, I must commend Councilmember Ken Schwartz. At the January 16 Council meeting, he demonstrated to the audience that he had received a large majority of e- mails favoring the growth of a Costco in our community. He indicated that the Council should be listening to "We the people." He also offered a proposal to the audience and the Council that communities such as Irvine and Newport had been successful in building shopping centers that were not unsightly. He stated that although we do not have the money that Irvine has, we could certainly try to make a Costco shopping center look as attractive as possible. Councamember Schwartz demonstrated a great deal of vision for our city and should be commended. If you are one of"We the people" who want a Costco, contact all members of the City Council and come to the Council meeting. If you want a Costco, especially if you live or work in San Luis Obispo, you may want to speak up before next Tuesday's Council meeting. You can contact City Council members as follows: Mayor Allen Settle, 781-7417 or asettle@slocity.org; Vice Mayor John Ewan 783-7752 or jewan@slocity.org;Councihnember Christine Mulholland 781-7598 or cmulholland@slocity.org; Councilmember Jan Howell Mark 783-7754 or jmark@slocity.org; Counciilmember Ken Schwartz 783-7750 or kschwartz@slocity.org . The office address is 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, IF YOU WANT COSTCO HERE, SEND THIS LETTER TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW NOW! 2 Richard Schmidt IM 544-4247 18111/29/1 (94:38 PM d1/4 RICHARD SCHMIDT ME, AGENDA DATE�-ITEM #= RECEIVED 112 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (805) 544-4247 .i�N 2 9 2001 e-mail: rschmidt@calpoly.edu S'O'IBRYWI For Feb. 6 Council Packet (VIA FAX) To the City Council Re: Dalidio EIR This Is one of the worst, most poorly done, inaccurate and Incomplete EIRs I have encountered In nearly 30 years of working with EIRs. It fails in so many ways to provide the truthful and factual environmental information decision-makers need to assess this project that it needs to be redone. It also needs to be redone because parts of it fail even to conform to the proper legal minimum standards expected of EIRs. There is no excuse for this shoddy product to be upon your desks tonight. Commentators-- myself among them-- have labored for years to get staff and the EIR consultant to make this document a good one, and we've been arrogantly rebuffed at every move.The pages and pages of critiques and the brush- off responses of the consultants in the back of the book show how utterly arrogant their approach has been when asked to make corrections or to include items in the scope they didn't wish to include. Sections of the EIR in which I am interested are full of misinformation and even outright lies. These problems have been pointed out repeatedly, and they've remained uncorrected. In short, the people of San Luis Obispo expect better than this. We expect that environmental impacts of major projects should be fully exposed to daylight, discussed honestly and in sufficient detail, and given the full review they deserve. We do not want impacts pushed under the rug, only to surface after approval when It's too late to deal with them. THIS DOCUMENT NEEDS TO BE REDONE. I URGE THE COUNCIL TO SEND IT BACK FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF CORRECTIVE WORK. To do anything less sends a very bad message to the people of this city,to wit, that the Council will accept any poor quality EIR staff and consultants dish out, no matter how inadequate, how cynical, how incomplete. To do this simply invltes citizens to take the document to court, where delays are likely to be far longer than if the EIR is sent back to be redone properly. It Is therefore In everyone's Interest --the city's,the public's, the developer's--that the council order this EIR to be redone. 1 request that you compile the criticisms provided by myself, yourselves,and other commentators and use that as a template for the revision of this dreadfully inadequate document. Sincerely, 111,60UNCIL 04DP DIP q iTcAO OFIN V;0 9MCAO ❑ IRS Richard Schmidt i Cr ATTORNEY 0 . Attachments: ❑UT1t r t ❑PERS Summary listing of some EIR problems that need to be dealt with. Dalidio EIR, Schmidt to Council, Page 1 Richard Schmidt 12544-4247 M01/29/1 (D4:39 PM 6214 SUMMARYOF SOME EIR PROBLEMS THAT NEED TO BE DEALT WITH New Issues Not Previously Commented Upon • Habitat protection Inadequate. 1.After touring the site recently, I find the EIR's treatment of the riparian zones especially odious. The "ditch"parallel to Madonna Road behind the Post Office is actually a very nice riparian zone that needs restoration and good stewardship. Instead of the measly 20-foot setbacks called for in the EIR, a minimum 100-foot minimum setback Is more appropriate.The biologist with whom I toured stated that with some restoration,this riparian zone could accommodate breeding grounds for the endangered red legged frog. It is a fine riparian area, in need of TLC, not suitable for being treated as a parking lot sewer, which is how the project would treat it. A mitigation needs to be written to provide a major setback zone, with prescription for habitat enhancement and restoration. No pavement or building should be within 100 feet of the waterway, and human access must be discouraged. 2.The 35-foot setback from Pref umo Creek is inadequate to protect this important habitat area, especially since the city currently allows bike highways, recreational development and even"minor'buildings within the setback as a matter of course.A human-free zone of at least 100 feet needs to be established to protect endangered riparian species in and around the creek as well as the nesting sites of hawks and herons In the trees. The mitigation concerning this needs to be rewritten. 3.The Monarch butterflies who roost in the wooded portions of the site need protection through a valid Monarch mitigation. 4. The use of the woodland areas for a park is incompatible with hawk and heron roosting, Monarch roosting, and the continued well-being of riparian endangered species. This needs to be addressed forthrightly in text and mitigations since the city apparently intends to use this area as a park. Better that the area be set aside as a nature preserve to be observed from a distance through binoculars. • Failure to deal with impacts of"future urban uses"area delineated on map. An EIR must make educated guesses about possible or probable future uses not yet called out, and do a study of the impacts of such possible or probable uses. To ignore the impacts from this area, saying they will be studied in the future, is an improper fragmentization of cumulative impacts which are in fact part of a project. This deficiency must be corrected by rewriting the EIR. Previously Noted Dalidio EIR Deficiencies 1. Failure to reanalyze cumulative impacts of Dalidio and McBride being considered for development at same time. Particularly visual Impacts, creek and wildlife Impacts. (My comment p. 10-43. Inadequate response 6-B at p. 10-52) 2. Failure to include best possible Agricultural Mitigation measures; inadequacyof AG-1 in particular. Failure to consider and include recommended tiered ag mitigation measures or other measures that would reduce Impacts by redesign of project footprint. Failure to consider recommended mitigations that would reduce impacts from those allowed by the EIR mitigation. The consultant's response that even with such mitigations, the impact would still be Class 1 is deliberately deceptive and specious; the impact would be smaller, even if still Class 1. (My comment p. 10-44, inadequate response 6-C at 10-52) 3. Failure to provide adequate setback protection for riparian zones. The size of the zones In the EIR are inadequate to protect habitat and species, including endangered species. The 20-foot setback for the "drainage channel" (which in fact is a first class creek capable of restoration as endangered species habitat-- see New Issues section)and 35-foot setback for the major stream, Prefumo Creek, are inadequate. Failure to include suggested stronger mitigation. (My comment p. 10-45, inadequate response 6-D at p. 10-52) 4. Failure to include meaninfgul building design mitigations in the EIR;following the UBC and doing future engineering studies are NOT mitgations under CEQA. Future studies are not legally acceptable Dalidio EIR, Schmidt to Council, Page 2 Richard Schmidt 9544-4247 Ml/2911 (1)4:40PM D3/4 mitigations--this is clearly litigable. (My comment p. 10.45, inadequate response 6-E at p. 10-53) 5. Future studies are not mitigations. In their inadequate response, consultants inadvertently very nicely explain why such studies are not mitigations-- because decision makers are being asked to approve a project without sound or complete envlromental Information. This Is Iltlgable. (My comment p. 10-47, inadequate response 6-G at 10-53) 6. Effort to pre-judge the recommendations from future studies before those studies are done is a faulty mitigation. This is litigable. (My comment p. 10-47, inadequate response 6-H at 10-54.) The remedies to deficiencies 4 through 6 are to do the studies called for as part of the EIR. Otherwise,the information needed is not available to decision-makers, and the project "design"is just a lot of hot air which it might not be possible to build. 7. Neighborhood Traffic Mitigation: North Broad Street corridor.This section demonstrates the absolute cravenness of this entire EIR. The consultant was asked repeatedly to study this issue, and dug in his heels and flat out refused despite common sense that the project and Broad Street are clearly related because the project will have its own freeway off-ramp and Broad Street has a freeway-on-ramp that will suck traffic from most of the Foothill area, to the freeway,to the project.The consultant lies about current traffic conditions (giving traffic count numbers about half actual traffic loads, and even more preposterously claiming at peak hour there are fewer than two cars per minute on the street and that there is no speeding problem on the street, etc.), then compounds this with a silly garbage-in-garbage-out computer analysis claiming that the project will generate only 75 additional vehicle trips on Broad, a contention so preposterous as to be not worth even mentioning, except that it's typical of the lies contained in this section. My points beginning on page 10-47 and specific mitigations beginning on page 10-49 merit serious attention. I have pointed out numerous conflicts between the outcome of lack of mitigation and the city's general plan, and that alone calls for mitigation. Consultant's responses 6-1 through 6-Z are erroneous and inadequate in their entirety. By approving an EIR with this sort of junk in it, the council would be thumbing its nose at the neighborhood preservation provisions of the Land Use Element and Circulation Element, not to mention the truth. For additional shameful refusal by consultant to deal with these issues, shameful distortions of the truth, and a shameful disregard of the quality of life of those affected by the impacts of commercial growth, see the consultant's shameful responses 13-D through M in the original draft EIR. For the city to inflict neighborhoods with the traffic Impacts of commercial growth from which the city benefits financially, with no effort to mitigate those impacts, is a shameful indictment of a regime In which money and greed are given primacy over the needs, peace and quiet,and property rights of citizens. Prove to us that this is not what you stand for by requiring adequate mitigations of these impacts. I ask that the mitigations for the project's obvious Broad Street traffic impacts be included in a revised EIR, along the lines of those I have already requested. e. Purchase of property for water supply by city as an alternative project, to relieve need for Nacimiento or Salinas projects.The consultant's response is a b.s. opinion which basically says even if the city owns the land, it has no water rights to use the water off site. I'm sure this is news to all of you!!Clearly this is Incorrect. The Issue I asked to have studied, a project alternative. has not been studied. It needs to be studied.The consultant brushes off my contention that development is incompatible with pumping this water, yet offers no evidence to back up this brush-off. There are multiple issues here: land subsidence due to pumping-- it makes no sense to build atop a plentiful aquifer from which you hope to pump when this issue already exists -- it will mean one lawsuit after another, and eventual abandonment of any useful wells:water degradation due to Infiltration of auto-related toxins, Including gasoline, benzene,toluene, oil, grease, MTBE, etc. which will render the water unfit to drink; loss of percolatlon area-- at present much of the irrigation water seeps back into the ground water table -- nothing can seep through asphalt and concrete. (My comment p. 10-50, inadequate response 6-AA at 10-56.) Dalidio EIR, Schmidt to Council, Page 3 Richard Schmidt V 544-4247 M1 04.41 PM D 4/4 9. Inadequate study of project alternatives which would allow construction of comparable project on land already dedicated to urban uses, including Madonna Road Plaza and Mid-Higuera zone. (My comment and response 13-N in first DEIR.) 10. Studies aren't mitigations. Geo 1 through Geo 5 call for studies after the fact as mitigations. It is impossible to know what those studies will show, and therefore decision-makers are not being provided with CEQA-required foreknowledge before approving the project. (My comment and their inadequate responses 13-R through U in the first DEIR) 11. Stream and stormwater degradation isn't dealt with adequately. The EIR asserts that parking lot runoff will be cleaner than farmland runoff. When I questioned this, instead of writing a mitigation measure, the consultant came back with a spirited denunciation and a Web page reference to back up their silly term- paperish research and claim. No such advanced treatment system is required, none is proposed as part of this project, and none will be built, so the statement about the purity of parking lot runoff remains mind- fogging irrelevant b.s. Parking lot runoff is highly toxic, will pollute streams inhabited by endangered species, and will pollute the ground water as well.Any mitigation must be low tech to be sustainable (not the pie in sky high tech stuff the consultant talks about), and that will require dedication of significant ground area for it in perpetuity. A proper, workable mitigation needs to be written. (My comment and their response 13 U,V,W of the first DEIR) [Note: While this is a long list of deficiencies, there are also others from my previous comments printed in the EIR, and I incorporate those here by reference.] EIR Procedural Inadequacies --Scoping Short-Cut. When the EIR was last sent back for additional work. the scoping procedure and timetable used were entirely improper. In brief, the purpose of scoping is to permit members of the public to provide guidance about the content and scope of the environmental document. To that end, a time period Is established by law within which public scoping comments may be provided. It goes without saying that those comments are then supposed to be reivewed and their contents used to influence contents of the resulting document. In the case of this EIR, however, staff and the consultant conspired in a cynical manner to preclude inclusion of public scoping comments by writing the EIR prior to close of the scoping period. In fact, the DEIR itself was released just prior to the end of the scoping period. Public comments that were submitted In good faith were thus"Included"only by being appended to the back of the book, provided they had arrived soon enough for that. I myself submitted 20 pages of comments which were"considered"in this arrogant and cynical manner. This is just plain wrong behavior-- a breach at the very least of public etiquette and decency--, and the city council must state that it is unacceptable by sending this document back for further review includipg inclusion of the material suggested in this second public scoog but Igoor d by the EIR consultant. -Ignoring Scoping Input. Throughout the various scoping processes, the EIR consultant has arrogantly refused to consider certain issues of environmental importance. It is clear that they decided early on to ignore public input if it was inconvenient input or strayed beyond their preconceived notion of the EIR's scope. This Is a perversion of the public process.That Input was systematically ignores Is evident from the extensive scoping comments from myself and others which have simply been"noted"or blown off altogether, and which were never dealt with in a honest or intellectually upright manner. There was never an honest effort to use public scoping to in any way shape this document. The document needs to be sent back with direction that the subject of every single reasonable scoping comment be dealt with in the text of the EIR. _ignoring nraft Document Comments. Public comments on the two draft documents were ignored just as readily as public scoping comments. This is not right. Many valid points were raised, and they were blown off by staff and consultant. The document needs to be cent back with direction that the subject of every_ zipale reasonable draft comment be deall with in the text of the EIR. Dalidio EIR, Schmidt to Council, Page 4 MEETING AGENDA DATE -L01 ITEM # Susan Pettit 3170 Estelita Court,Apt. A San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 February 1, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: I am writing m response to the debate regarding a possible Costco in San Luis Obispo. I have lived in the city of San Luis Obispo since 1992 and in the county since 1985. I have been a Costco member since 1991 and have been willing to drive to Santa Maria to pick up items I wish to buy there. I have purchased a wide range of items at Costco—grocery items,electronics (televisions,VCR's,a home computer, a laser printer,etc.), computer software,books, small appliances,office supplies, clothing,paper products,tires,a desk,personal hygiene products, and so much more. Many of my big dollar items have been purchased there. I tend to shop around and buy where I get the best value. Sometimes I get the best deal at Costco and sometimes somewhere else. Since Costco is a bit of a distance from San Luis Obispo,I only go there once every 1 —2 months. When I do not have the time to drive to Costco, I do not necessarily spend my money locally though. If prices aren't good locally,I shop via the Internet. The point is that a lot of my money is not spent in the city(or even the county)of San Luis Obispo. And I think that is true for many residents in the area. I have a real problem with San Luis Obispo restricting free enterprise so much. If a store like Costco wishes to take a chance on raising enough business from our community to keep it open, they should have the right to not only build the store but to include as many grocery items as they wish. If the people of San Luis Obispo are so against shopping at Costco,they will not go there. A Costco store would keep tax money locally. Plus,many of us will save on gas and adding to traffic on the freeway. Many other large box stores have been approved for this area, so the resistance to allow a large Costco does not make sense. Sure, Costco can agree to a smaller version and/or less floor space for food. But why should they have to? Especially when all these other jumbo stores are being built. Thank you, Susan Pettit RECEIVED FES 022001 SLO CITY COUNCIL Feb-02-01 01 : 17P P_02 1rrLETING AGENDA DATEao ITEM # C v FYlxn'G&&4* Thursday, Fcbmitry 1, 2001 City of Sart Luis Obrspo Alayor Sertle ,C.,,un%it Mcmbcrs WO Palm Street Sett Luis Obispo,C.L. 93 101 Mr. Mavor,Council :114cmlicrs This letter i. rcgartlirrg rhV.ujyeonmtg vore on the Costco/Rig Box stores. I'm a CCAIeo carrying card member living.in S.in 1.6s Obisl>i.I will eonruwc to shop at Cvsn r+whanccr n is in Swita hLtria, Arascedern,rr San l.ttis C)hi po.II would be nice if the sales revenur for all of my purchases would.pee io the City it which I live.if You do not allow a Cvstc<.,in the Cirv, Nk shopping and my rm incy will continue to go to Santa Mxri;i. Sine cly, ' l to dgrafcr I I Ox 35%Z Srued"Imci Fan Luis,7Aiwr,,Ce.911n1 (NITS)543-264 Fax(1405)56.10447 V mail:Fro n)dinmAhv(d;auLcom FILE No.466 02/02 '01 1009 'D: FAX: PAGE li 1 MEETING AGENDA G DATE �'66'0� ITEM #�. AN REINI PARKEL I N S U R A N C E B R O K E R S 1008 Palm Sffect,San Luis Obispo,California 93401 TELEPHONE (805)781-2300 FAX: (805)781.2310 CA LIc.#OB57639 - FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION - FFA TE: February 1, 2001 X TO: Mayor Allen Settle @ City Hail X#: 781-7109Pages(including this rover sheet):t OM: Marc Andreini FAX# 805-781-2310 RE: CONSTRUCTION OF THE COSTCO STORE OFF OF LOS OSOS VALLEY ROAD Dear Mayor Settle: I am writing you to ask you to reconsider passing the ordinance to limit retailers and their sale of grocery items, as this is causing CostCo to avoid moving to San Luis. My wife and I feel we are rather typical shoppers in that for quick and small items, we run to the local merchants. However, for larger purchases,we begrudgingly load the car with kids and take a half of a day to drive to Santa Maria to shop for the larger items. And while we are there, we always end up having lunch or dinner, and sometimes seeing a show. We would all much rather not have to leave town! We are still completing a long-term renovation of our home in San Luis Obispo, and so we have become well acquainted with a number of out-of-town retailers. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully Submitted, Marc Andreini cc. John Ewan, Vice-Mayor Jan Howell Marx Ken Schwartz Christine Mulholland 01/24/2001 11:05 6054667?1E BOB PAGE ,. 01 MEETING �,D / AGENDA DATE 2 ITEM # Please direct a copy of this to counsel persons Settle, Marx and Mulholland. Big time politics certainly demonstrated last year how bewildering these endeavors can be. Local politics are no less puzzling. I am speaking about the Costco in SLO issue. For a couple of years now we've been discussing the possiblfty of Costco coming to our area. Every single person I know and talked to thinks it would be wonderful. Having no experience in local government, I don' t claim any expertise. However, I have always assumed those making decisions would at times have opportunities to listen to wishes of the vast majority, and seriously consider those wishes. Judging from the huge response of letters to the editor, it is clear to all, which way the masses want this to go. Our nations new Attorney General has vowed to abide by the laws of this land, even though they differ from his personal opinion. How about all of you setting your personal preferences aside and being represenatives of the people? Thank you. Robert Martinsen 3 Y'o- K Tl T t i P� L�{,°�u sem, 7 1 +` 67t %' •f �vs-7� / ! •. .�y ..e '' l .uf�?4� ' �V.S' :•C1. ` 1 >� -'"`a, v^+l,ry> (f i � s C^ate: _[ a-tea ^— ateC' Y k•`� a * —sem :1 i � ^fir"�J"�'�-�•�i�°�.<�,�� �:� Axr-�,' �. Phalos by CON REYES / Las Angeles Times. "There was no question that some very.basic mistakes were,made,'`says Smart&Final CEO Ross Roeder of expansion. . Smart Finafls� Priv. 1t Ease. w Grocery;Exwsion pushed the smaller warehouse chain into ,� WINE- the red,but convenience and products are turning it around. E° . �- � �.. ByMIIdNDAF[fI;MER TIMES STAFF WRITER � While grocery stores have been bat- tered at tered by the proliferation of huge ware- house clubs such as Costco and Wal- Mart's al Mart's Sam's Club;the pint-size ware al1� houses of Smart&Final have flourished ; in their shadow,siphoning away business from customers who have become disea A. , chanted by the long lines and parking lot congeSClOn. Its nondescript stores have no tire cen � a r ters, snack bars.or+electronics depart- ments,just unglamorous items such as v 25-pound bags of pinto bows, gallons of Smart&Fnal,s neweststore in Covina showcases its roomy,organized aisles. private-label barbecue sauce and 200 count packages of plastic cups.But the tion and has for years befuddled,analysts, the�Cash&Carry wholesale grocery chain 220 stores have one key advantage their manufacturers and competitors'alike. . in 199.8. huge competitors don't:convenience. Ewen.if the food industry doesn't know .Although its stores are only:about "I come here because I don't have to quite what,ioi .iaake of the 130-year-old 20;000 square feet—a fraction lie.size wait in huge lines or deal with the traffic chain,which trades as SMF on the New of Costco's 130,000-square-foot stores— at Costco;"said Janice Bustos,who shops York Stock kxchange,its'boncept finally they contain more than four times the at the Covina Smart&Final for cleaning seems to be clicking with consumers,es- number of Costco s 1,500 food items and a supplies for her business and picks up cof- pecially after the introduction of its new large number of cleaning supplies and pa- fee and other groceries for her homer- ad campaign;which enticesconsumers to per products that the big warehouses The Commerce-based company seems "shop where the pros shop and save." dont carry. to have finally righted itself after a poorly . Consumers have become increasingly The addition of a produce aisle,cuts of executed expansion in Florida helped de- comfortable with warehouse shopping in meat, premium wine and smaller-sized press earnings in the late-1990s. In the recent years.Fifty percent of all house- items also have helped attract more bar- first three quarters of last year, Smart& holds surveyed by ACNielsen in 1999 gain-hunting grocery shoppers, just as Final's total store sales were up 6% to shopped at a warehouse club at least once Costco began using these items to lure $1.1 billion from a year earlier,and earn- that year,up from 48%in 1997. customers away from supermarkets years ings more than doubled to $7.9 million Meanwhile, the number of trips to the ago. from$3 million in the 1999 period. supermarket have been declining, slip-. "They've made.some progress here Much of the sales bump can be attrib- ping to 90 annual trips from 94 just three that's key to driving sales,"said Jonathan uted to small-business owners like Bus- years earlier. .Ziegler, a retail analyst with Salomon tos,who can't spare the time or cant find With the company back in the black, Smith Barney. "They're certainly on the the cleaning supplies or food items they Smart•& Final's expansion plans have right path." need at Costco. been revived.More than 15 new-stores The chain's recent success has even Part supermarket, part warehouse will open this year in its existing markets convinced its majority stakeholder= store,part food distributor,Smart&Fi- such as California,Florida,Nevada and .Groupe.Casino,France's largest super- nal's no-frills concept defies easy descrip- the Pacific Northwest,where it bought Please see STORE,C5 MONEY/WORK/ENTERPRISE01 — Cos Angels 97 Is, 2001 cc WWW_ n_NMIS.C.0n"usn erget C0. nergers,during the acquisition 5 he last three years,many of the -able,companies with marquee'; +ady have found partners;Wall say.. •I on,the stock market's slide last �`+dt 10 firms unwilling or unable to 1� {n shares as currency for deals.. a. think differently.when their _a{ m;"said Mark.Lanigan,co-head ; mt.baliker Credit Suisse First s Angeles office.",When stocks ; it puts the brakes on deals."' hnology sector in particular, y in stock prices will'slow the .'said Harry T.McMahon,man- :or of investment banking at h in Los Angeles.. corporate earnings weakening istries,using cash to do deals more difficult,analysts said. dso maybe more difficult as ind'investors'remain"cautious r ng higher-risk transactions. C7 nt bankers are going'to.have It harder toiusti[y..Heals'.this ichard Peterson;analyst with '`i iancial. "They are going to �. Please see MEEtGF1tS,C4'''� -' •r .xr' �, a-S " fit`,.., ' I� ` '� 'r �'y , ':-r � {l� V �.�1 v. - , ..moi-® 3'\�^ �•_ 9 Rz y�Y� _ `� .� v'r "-� 'fir- •:L9.lr '3p '£ There was no question that some fiery basic mistakes were made,"says Smart&Flnal CEO Ross Roeder of expansion.`I e ' �� T, J. - .. s. tOS ANGELES TnAEs. STO ISE: Shoppers Turn to Smart & Final Continued from Cl across the country to Florida,"said club consultancy. market chain—to begin buying up Roeder, a board member who was Their mix of products is cer- more shares, prompting another enlisted to clean up. the messy tainly unusual,from its wide selec-. round of takeover-rumors. Florida expansion and in 1998 hired .tion of gourmet cheeses.tb massive. Ross Roeder, Smart & Final as chief executive.'There was no containers'of pine cleaner,cases'.cf chairman and chief executive;says question that some very basic mis- candy and'cor nmercial gas stoves. these rumors have persisted for takeswere'made." Although some locations appear years,and he knows of no.immedi. Those mistakes included open- to be a jumble of bargain buys or ate plans by Groupe Casino to ing just a handful of stores across . close-outs,its new.stores are much. wrest control of the company. an area where they were.not more organized; with clearly la. Ziegler, however, says the com- .known, requiring an.ex ad- beled sections and'angled aisles pany needs to be taken private by veitising campaign. with'big signs on the end showing Groupe Casino or.sold entirely. Moreover, its Florida food serv- the prices of its biggest movers. Groupe Casino's stake,amounting ice company, Henry. Lee C.o., The stores to be built this year Roe- to about 60%,has dampened inter- dipped into the.red in 1999 after it also will contain test kitchens,Roe- est in the stock and hampered the had trouble integrating.the stock der says;where.chefs can demon- company's•effort§to raise capital in . from its.stores;and as some of the strate the equipment and products the public.market customers it was carrying did not the store sells. The stock's 52-week high, ,pay their bills. Despite its recent stumbles, reached Monday, was $9:94. It Although the.company appears Smart&Final can boast one of the closed at $9.31 on Wednesday, to be back on footing,it's still longest track records of any food down.l3,cents.But the price is less not without'its weaknesses. Smart store in Califorma.TTie chain traces than.half what it was in 1996,be &Final's food distribution business its roots back 130 years to-grocery fore the company embarked on an. is still more potential than profit, store Hellman Haas Co.'in down- aggressive expansion in Florida, many of its Southern California ..town Los Angeles,.one of seven which pushed the company into the stores are old and badly in need of businesses listed in the first.L.A. red.for the first time since it went updating,and it,still lacks a strong phone directory. pptilic in 1991: . identity. Although today's Smart&Final public hindsight,you could say too "Nobody knows what they are;' bears little resemblance to that op- much was attempted atonce,or.ask said Glenn Llopis of Power. In- eration, it has revived the Iris Why did they have to go all the way sights, a Brea-based warehouse name,a priyate'label introduced by that grocery in 1889: _ The Smart&Final name came along in 1915,when J.S.Smart and H.D.Final;a couple of transplanted Midwesterners eager to introduce the "cash-an&carry" concept to. Los Angeles,bought a small gro- cery and-named it after themselves. Smart & Final now ranks 21st among Los Angeles County's larg- est public companies, according to the Los Angeles Business Journal, with 220 stores and a large food dis-'• tribution business,serving restau- rants in Northern.California and Srnith Florida ME. JG AGENDA -L DATE Z " ITEM # From: "Brenda Caves"<cavewoman @earth I ink.net> To: <sstendahl@slocity.org> Date: 2/2/01 9:26AM Subject: Issues pertaining to City Council Meeting 2/6/01 Please copy and distribute to all City Council Members San Luis Obispo City Council Members I have been a resident of this community for 20 years+. I own property and reside in the Islay Hill area of San Luis Obispo and am strongly supportive of bringing Costco,Target, and other shopping options to our local area for the following reasons. I currently(and frequently)travel to Santa Maria or to Paso Robles on a regular basis to shop at Costco and Target. Not only is the City of San Luis Obispo losing tax revenue because these stores are not available in SLO, but I am wasting valuable time and energy resources (namely gasoline) by this practice. For the local small businesses and food chains that oppose approval of anything that would bring competition, I can only say that my shopping trends would not differ. I do not feel the downtown specialty businesses and tourist traps would be negatively impacted by this convenience for local residents and students. As long as the buildings constructed and facilities installed take into consideration traffic patterns and parking and designs are approved as usual and customary for this area, this can do nothing more than improve our quality of life here in San Luis Obispo and provide added income to the City of San Luis Obispo. As evidenced by the recent completion of the Madonna Rd shopping expansion, SLO residents want more variety in shopping and restaurants. The parking lot is alway full. I do not feel the San Luis Obispo downtown area will not loose it's small town charm because of the introduction of Costco,Target and a few other chains to the Los Osos Valley Road/Madonna Road area. It's still great to bring my out-of-town friends to the downtown area to spend money and dine and enjoy the atmosphere that is representative of SLO. Please consider my request and approve projects that will bring Costco and Target to our city. Thank you, Brenda Caves Brenda Caves P. O. Box 955 San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 02/02/2001 15:26 8057723258 MYERS DRILLING PAGE 01 EETING AGENDA M ERS TE L b-01 ITEM #= FotWMTION DRUING R MYER& INC•Fn Bmc 742• Mono Bay,cA 93443• me A5722m• (805) 772-1650 • FAX (805) 772-8258 2 February 2001 San Luis Obispo City Council Mayor Allen Settle Councilmenber Jan Howell Marx Counc riember Christime Mulholland Mayor Settle, and Council Members Marx and Mulholland: Please reconsider your vote in favor of enacting an ordinance which mandates the maxinvlm amount of floor space a large retailer can devote to grocery items. Although I am not a resident of the city of San Luis Obispo,much of my money is spent there. Even more of my money would stay in our county if my monthly trip to Costco in . Santa Maria were unnecessary. Sales tax revenues benefit the entire community and Costco would certainly generate a large sum for San Luis Obispo. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Ronald L. Myers Costco 42/02/01 GENPRAL EMDFU"G OON7RAMIL TEL : Oct 21 05 4 :31 No . 001 P .02 DATE MEETING —0 1— � Jo Ann Switzer M # 8380 Atascadero Ave. Atascadero, Calif. 93422 February 2, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle San Luis Obispo City Council San Luis Obispo, Calif. 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: As a resident of North San Luis Obispo County, I strongly urge you to vote in favor of a . Costco for San Luis Obispo County. Personally i dislike going out of County to spend my money, however since the closest Costco is in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County, thatis where I go. Since traveling to Costco, I also do lots of other shopping in Santa Maria,which gives another County my tax revenue. It would be too bad not to have a Costco because of an ordinance, which mandates the maximum amount of floor space a large retailer can devote to grocery items. Thank ,you, for a favorable consideration of keeping our tax dollars locally, which will only make for a better economy in San Luis Obispo. Sincerely, Jo Ann Switzer I i TEL : Oct 2105 4 :32 No .001 P .04 viEETING AGENDAy John W. Lacey L,ATE%'_ —ITEM # P. O. Box 9 Paso Robles, Calif. 93447 li February 2, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle San Luis Obispo City Council San Luis Obispo, Calif. 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: As a resident of North San Luis Obispo County, I strongly urge you to vote in favor of a Costco for San Luis Obispo County. Living in Paso Robles gives me two choices for Costco shopping. Either going to Bakersfield to their Costco,or in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County,the mileage to each is similar. However by going to either one of these Costco,s 1 am spending my money in another County giving them my tax revenue that I would much rather keep in San Luis Obispo County helping to keep a healthy economy. Since traveling to Costco,I also do lots of other shopping in Santa Maria or Bakersfield which also gives away more of my tax revenue. It would be too bad not to have a Costco because of an ordinance, which mandates the maximum amount of floor space a large retailer can devote to grocery items. Thank you, for favorable consideration of keeping our tax dollars locally. Sincerely, I Dee Lace John 8c Y i i J ♦ I REOEIVEQ�&,Ir FEB — 3 - 01 SAT 10 : 57 . 0 0r P . 01 .a,i4;i#,'s'CjS'�"•, •+� .... 4,12 i`�i. y Alb AL t�'1 ,8�� ,,,>tvp Z1iSsA Tj I-NO'N" ......:-:4 uc••, ,,- , 1, 4. ;tf. ..a. 4;COSWt� �� iii Ob;spa` phase atteti { '! tL ii icll �i$��ag�opt Veb�t�at Gtf at M6 k4 ev fiii'the Gbui�cli'. Wl� opts. Ofr. el ! ;"Y•' ! ': Yl ",1.1 I..11 ,_ . j tdw p c� t 'a +'�3fi� det o , cognd an �t�s {.� { , t�[r y' 3 :� UIN 6 Y'P•.1.�`•1�Y�•341,1.�i��' .i.{ .1'` s d eI hggqq � �r� �. ,�•r .�C tilil deity do, J,•'c, r •#� o� b a ,34 h ` d`ta b� tfi t t 'm �vOT Tf J V rint, a • [ ,. .. �t f jbittt+ b ` ` ` t$ Ct I;btitiair til Me�ti#� f, �• reni % t "�1- :�Id !' p i6 l+yto bisittteseatll r-. 7 A q] p �s'�`r*•.f'd��..�t;Y:.v"�hTt.�7.:��J� •,. i6'"didotiu &h erg c"; o send the word that` •s:,a•i>,,Y.. �e.4':Y� ,r . �� .: sY;- r�ati., ,4 � t., i � . r (� LA�'1�t��f�' tiiiunit ` ' t br,e- letter. 6g1;i "`' 1 .',� j( 1 iB..I T}J� !° .( �rh`t �r Y�;,{S I'P;•` r° 'r • r k , rk I it �t\....GY'�.��'S•}Y^I:tat>�:�..F ,i-:..♦ .n5..�•N\Y � }: �� ./ �t:[}. ,J��T�':'�+�j:• I�T�,. ]_ty�j•Jk Z'-`, �:R.•. .�T.' i , Ylr ' lfiff •� r '}�G='k "1.tRn''T'n'?.'h.�'J n:�'� �•Abw .+I" ! :i,-�¢.y•.}. ? I. it ' 'r IY� !,a"i:�5�• 7.`.'T ��.J�'u�`�{��(�'1^.. i ) ir�I+: �,.:;Y,/.,.t� ti-t' �i.i i•. .;� /'. � ` � �il � � ■. �OfT.3, ,�"tp1 tr g+, 4Y��Y .Vr y ,i 3� aaI T S1 rM IM1 _ .:. 1 FEB=03=01 03 :00 PM SM.TMSCARSON 805 589 5406 P. O`1 -IL S�nakk Qxd-CYirgiaia Peka . 6163 Alta Mira Lane San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 Phone: 805-781-9201 Fax: 805-543-8901 E-mail: pekargf@aol.com February 1, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle City Hall 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: I enclose an article from the Los Angeles Times for your perusal. It talks about how customers dislike the traffic and long lines at large warehouse stores like Costco and prefer instead to shop at stores like Smart and Final. We have a Smart and Final;we do not need to add the potential congestion of a Costco to our fine city. Please stand.by your previous vote on the big-box ordinance and protect and preserve our city. Thank you. Sincerely, ,,QQ dj�d �4u agk� Frank and Virginia Pekar RECEIVED, FEB 0 2 2001 SLO CITY CLERK ( Nan-Jones 567 Cuesta Dr. c San Luis Obispo, CA 9340; v� - ����Z� ������� a - - i �D+� �� �� %��_ est=�c-� l� ✓tell -40 r /n(�n FFES ECEIVED 0 ` 2001 Mr.and Mrs.H.W.Retzloff ' 71 Benton Way SLO CITY CLERK San Luis Obispo,CA 93405-1717 Feb 01 01 08: 55p Wesley R. Hiltbrand 805-543-5069 p. l MEEL._ AGENDA DATE=ITEM #= Wesle R Hiltbrand COUNCIL M4F Dia Y I LAO ❑FIN C` 698 Patricia Dr. 9-AgAo ❑FIR: � Or.".'i ❑F"r San Luis Obispo, Ca. Foy:.. .T .1 ❑U E V CaA LETTE ❑UTIL DiR ❑PERS ni JP e rl`0aaal ry 1, 2001 Dear Mr. Settle and City Council: I feel your recent decision,which excludes Costco from the city, is M advised. I have been shopping in the Santa Maria store for some time now and plan to continue in the future. I feel bad that the city fails to receive the tax revenues generated. Those friends' neighbors and patients I have discussed the issue with are of the consensus opinion that it is gross interference in the conduct of a private business. Costco would generate jobs and a convenience to many. Our city loses. Its people,the weather and amenities provided to residents and tourists, determines the character of a city. An arrogant city government of protectionism does not a quality city make. It would serve us well to allow free completion in the market place. If you people had to make a payroll,had a significant financial investment in the community and less "big brother-big sister attitude"we would be better served. The ripple effect will be that other quality businesses will think long and hard before making an investment here. It is unfair to stifle compition. I would love to see the city as it was when I came 35+years ago but that is not possible. We can only go forward not try to stiy aired in the horse and buggy days. When can we expect limits on the other merchants and professionals in the city? AI would suggest that you read the many opinions expressed and consider your votes based on the communities desires. YOU PEOPLE AMAZE ME. WeI�itl�fan"dt v---C� RECEIVED FE B 1 - 2001 FEE C; r:pK 02/01/2001 21:09 8052378332 SWEETWATER PAIGE 01 Subj: Costco Date: Thursday, February 1 , 2001 4:42:56 AM To: San Luis Obispo City Council Members, Mayor Allen Settle, Vice Mayor John Ewan, Jan Howell Marx, Ken Schwartz, Christine Mulholland, Telegram Tribune Dear Council Members: As friends and neighbors, we concur with the majority of those who support allowing Costco to develop, as proposed, on the Madonna property. If you read all the letters in the newspapers, the positive reasons for this are obvious. The tax benefits alone should be enough to influence your approval of this project. You encouraged Mr. Madonna to annex his project to the City so the City could gain taxes. You allowed him to have four parcels, which obviously were not to raise pigs. Now, it appears the Council has "kited" on Mr. Madonna and those who supported the development. Why??? It makes no economical sense to deny this project. You cannot prevent the growth of California, and it seems reasonable to join it with a clean project such as Costco. There will be other Costco-type development in other areas in the County, so why not be there first? Hello????? Mr. and Mrs. E.C. Trompeter 1922 Pebble Beach Court Paso Robles, CA 93446 SRECTECED0B 01 OCYL;p K 2/1/01 America Online : Lazy 2 Tee Page 1 CONNIEBIAGGINI Fax : 805-544-8313 Apr 28 07:05 .--t1;9 P.O.Box 1076 Morro Bay, CA 93443-1076 Phone (805) 772-9666 FAX(805) 772-6099 January 30, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle and San Luis Obispo City Council Members, T am writing this letter in support of Alex Madonna and his desire to build a COSTCO Store on his property. In these times in rising costs to business and all citizens, the present opposition to this project by the Council begs the question of where the fiscal responsibility lies. In my view, the public treasury and our revenues should NOT turn down the estimated $700,000.00 each year in taxes that COS"rC0 would generate. The political position taken at the last hearing is irresponsible. My hope is that at the next Council hearing, February 6, 2001, will reverse the fiscal damage decision that was made on January 16, 2001. Please make the right decision in support of Mr. Madonna's project. The positives far exceed the negatives. Your YES vote will be for the betterment of all citizens in an acceptable professional manner. Thank You. Sincerely, Ed Biaggini RE ED Cc: Alex Madonna FEB 1 - 2001 EB:cjb Lee Price-City Web Visitor Comment _ T . Page 1 From: <webserver@slocity.org> To: <Iprice@slocity.org> Date: 1/31/01 8:08PM Subject: City_Web_Visitor Comments Today's Date: 1/31/01 Visitor's Name: Vants Anseth Address: 145 South St. A-8 City: San Luis Obispo State: CA Zip Code: 93401 Phone: 786-4315 Fax: Email Address: vantsman@msn.com Comments/Questions: Copy to All City Council Members.... I must say I am shocked to hear our Mayor say on T.V. that people from Morro Bay and other Cities in SLO County don't matter when it comes to Costco opinions. Is that to say the tax dollars they spend here do not count either? Nothing is going to, nor ever has hurt the downtown area. People go downtown to shop because of the atmosphere. The businesses change all the time, yet we still go there to shop because it is such a nice place to walk around. We need at least one major store, and my vote is for a Costco. Let us not forget how much money Costco stores take in every month, and since we have lost the Diablo tax base, this would be an excellent replacement of lost tax dollars. We have nothing like this type of store in SLO, the tax dollar revenue would be outstanding. Costco would not hurt anyone in this town, as a matter of FACT, most businesses would probably fare much better because of the presence of a Costco due to the amount of persons from outside SLO that would come to shop there. These people would quite often spend time and money elsewhere in town when they come in from the North County and Morro Bay and all the surrounding areas.For Our Mayor to go on T.V. and say something as stupid as the people in places such as Morro Bay do not count because they do not live in SLO City, is about as smart as saying if you don't live here, shop somewhere else.The idea is control on growth, not stop growth, City Councils will come and go, Costco will be here sooner or later. Whatever you do is only good as long as you are on the council,the next City Council down the road can change that. We have a chance now to recapture lost tax dollars, to help the City, let us do it. Nothing ever has, nothing ever will hurt downtown shopping. It is in the best interest of everyone, plus the Cities best interest to allow the building of Costco on Los Osos Valley road.lt is all car lots now,what better place? I hope the next one representing our City that goes on T.V. has more intellect than to alienate our surrounding Cities such as Morro Bay by their poor choice of words.lt is those people who come from the surrounding areas and spend money here that make this town as good as it is. I am embarrassed by the attitudes being manifested by our elected officials in regards to this Costco thing. There is more at stake here, quality of living could not be hurt by allowing a great retail outlet like Costco into an area now populated by Car Dealers. The money it will generate for our City cannot be ignored, everyone will benifit, not one soul will be hurt. There was the scare about the Plaza also, never hurt anyone! Downtown is Downtown and that will never change because it has atmosphere. The businesses come and o a d we still shop there because it is what it is. Do EFE EIVA 1 - 2001 iY CLwr% Lee Price-City Web Visitor Comment Pa e 2 the right thing for the City and vote in the Costco, you were elected to do what is best for all concerned. Those who are afraid of this store have not sat down and done the homework,this store will be a boost for everyone. Thank You for Your Time. Vants Anseth-SLO since 79 q 5Z't'Vta CLIFFORD B . HOLSER 6aFJ6W Gm MW P.O. BOX 13459 SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIF. 93406 February 1, 2001 To the Editor: As a businessman with many years of experience in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria, I have observed the differences in development in each city. Stores such as Costco may provide some incremental price savings, but they do so at a cost to the community. , That cost involves fundamentally changing the city's character. This can be observed readily in Santa Maria, as well as many other cities with similar growth patterns featuring big Super Stores. They provide a striking contrast to what we have here in San Luis Obispo. Tourism is a strong factor in our economy and the consequent welfare of our city. Visitors want to come here because they appreciate our very different qualities. Many of us deeply appreciate the vision and foresight of our city leaders who developed San Luis Obispo with its special appeal and environment, making this City so enjoyable. The present City Council is to be highly commended for following the path of preserving these values for our future. Sincerely, B. Holser 16 7an . Drive , #13 San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Phone (805) 544-1219 Fax (805) 545-9149 RECEIVED FEB 0 1 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL FEB-01-01 12 :58 PM QUALITY-FABSLO 805 544 6362 P. 01 2- 1-61 To M c;D ,o✓ A d-wl SL_U no4 i vel bz r nd ✓� iSed �e�s�m � 4 h is !-e �kr rs 40 Cas-�eo J l 4-1 t 41 ySe. no ✓6050rn -,Par US 4D tiave � �e . 1-� I,ve. ��'� � a-v►.� ��1J S-� 1 I -�al� vv� e16-w v► 44v-yz i vi r5 5. 13 Caum�)t Keep REUEIVED FEB 1 - 2001 1/ �, SLO '; ?.e�'RK f�SZ �hvn�ve S� 02-01-2001 02:43PM FROM Sunset Honda TO 7817109 P.01 i I I 12250 Los Ososvalley Rd. `•i Sah`Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Tel 8Q5/544-9500 • FAX 805V544-0342 . Mttp:!/evww;.sunset-honda.com E-mail:sunsethond®dol.com February 1,2001. ' ! I Mayor Allen Seale': j 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo,!CA 93401 ! j Dear Mayor Settle, r This letter is being wnttea encourage you to please reconsideryour recent vote on:the j ordinance regarding big leo*stares in San Luis Obispo. We at Sunset Honda feel.this is a very short sighted dridinance and would not be of any benefit for the future of our city. I Thank you in,advance for dour help. i i Sincerely, j' Archie Woodward Owner, Sunset Honda: i I � I i IRE PEB 1 - 2001 SLD 9 .. .r�A I y FEB-01-2001 19 :53 nM P. 01 Ali Known"aTMM"bac. �►� >,�>(� ce 9346.5 Ptrom(BOS}F�7816 Fit(M)634-3967 februtuy 01,2001 Mayor Allen Settle Vice Mayor John Ewalt Jan Howell Merz Ken Schwartz C:hns=Mu10llBtld RE: COSTCO As a local mother and businesswomen,I am Bet in favor of the recent ordinance passed that rolubits the amount of floor space a large retailer sen devote to grocery items. p several of my friends and employees must make "speed trips"to As it is right now,My family, Santa Maria to do large grocery shopping fbr iicros in bulk. Costes is the store of choice because it off=so many items. A"one stop shop I do not see it as a replacement far other lural businesses bks Totes Toys or other grocery stores. Instead it will hying 7oore consumers b&6k to our county and the city of San Luis(:)hispo. I believe that we should keep our bu-,imms local and.although I realize that yon may not take MY opinion into account because I am not a resident of San Luis Obispo city,I hope that you can we the benefit that it would have to the local economy in tax revenues. The merease of NorLh than N�B it to county residmu traveling to San Luis Obispo for their shopping is much bener Santa Barbara County!! IIWc arc hoping that you will reconsider Otis ordinance And see the benefits of fox entap,;ce and growth. Rcspoctfully yours. 16 B President� RECEIVED FER 1 ' 2001 SLS CLER R Feb 01 01 10: 22a Wesley R. Hiltbrand 805-543-5069 p. 1 a4wZetlJ% �rD A7Y � lVcf L y 42 - htl�ow�- ay � /mac �-�( �!%'�"► /le AY l _'VED JKUDEN ID : 1-805-541-5112 JRN 31 '01 18 :41 No . 001 P .01 February 1, 2001 Mayor Allen K. Settle and Council Members City Hall 1-AX 781-7109 Dear Ladies and Gentlemen: RE: COSTCO We wish you would seriously reconsider the ordinance restricting freedom of competition because it is through competition that the downtown has survived and greatly benefited. Without this freedom where would we be today? Sincerely yours, i Mrs. Carol Blake 565 Parkhill Road Santa Margarita, CA 93453 I John and Marilyn Kuden 2095 Valle Vista Place San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 ED- F7,- c,. 001 Sl_C : R 2230 Exposition Drive No. 30 San Luis Obispo, California 93401 January 31, 2001 City Council City of San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, California 93401 Subject: February 6, 2001 Agenda item: Ordinance limiting floor area of non-taxable sales Dear Mayor and Council members: I support the approach that you have taken to limit the sales of non-taxable goods within large general discount stores, because grocery sales should be primarily within stores designed for that purpose and be located in neighborhood settings with other stores that fill daily needs. It makes little community sense to allow these sales as part of a regional discount center, generating long- distance trips away from established neighborhood centers. A not-so-fine point in the ordinance is the exemption of several potentially large areas from the calculation of eligible floor area. This exclusion serves no purpose since the overall operating program of these stores includes utility and storage areas that support the sales area. The size of the thresholds is so large, that to base the size of these thresholds just on sales area further increases the "non-taxable floor area" unnecessarily. Since the ordinance follows the approved County ordinance letter-for-letter on the thresholds, I wonder why this section is added when it does not appear in the County ordinance. I suggest that the exemption be dropped so the entire floor area of a store is the basis for calculation within San Luis Obispo as well. I also agree with your approach to pursue limitations on the overall size of"category- killer"discount stores, which compete in other types of merchandise such as hardware and lumber. Hopefully the research to bring a proposal to you will review publications and success stories from the Urban Land Institute and the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP), to bring to San Luis Obispo the best ideas from a nation-wide response to the problem. Useful books with good references from the NTHP are, How Superstore Sprawl Can Harm Communities and Better Models for Superstores. Sincerely, es Lopes RECEIVED N 1 2001 SLO Cl• • COUN � MEETI G AGENDA January 29 2001 DATE " b l ITEM # Mayor Allen Settle '2tOUNCIL City Hall °I. -3 ❑FIR;' -:;[r 990 Palm StreetH';TORMEY ❑ r: San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 . ��" iTT . I ❑. Dear Mayor Settle: ~ ❑ " I ✓J•Sheals I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna Road is a very BAD idea.. I believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the Morros boyo* d«:th sh oppi^g centers d car dealerships would destroy a tique pru of cur ccrnmunit}'s character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all need to protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Maria, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar sprawl. As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses. And on the rare occasion that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it is a small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't think every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities. We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. I moved here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: 1. Request the EIR be redone. Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever since the first draft (criticisms are printed in the back of the book)Please hold the city staff and the EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. 2. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." The legacy of the council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask that you they think of future generations and work to preserve this land. Sincere//ly, � b =RECEIVEDShelley MassaLos Osos 528-1598 01/29/2001 16:13 8057640329 PLUMB/SULLIUAN PACE 01 ,,,CETIN�C b o, AGENDA v DATE_ITEM # cbsirsAmi E January 26,2001 Dear Costco Member. 01' 1 .d�+dhraoee On January 16,the San Luis Obispo City Council voted 34 to phases. permanently prohibit Costco from coming to San Luis Obispo. This ordinance is backed by supermarket unions who want to eliminate their competition. The supermarket unions convinced the"swing vote," prod to Mayor Allen Settle,to support the ordinance.They argued that Costco is ibn Lai Opo• bad for local employment despite the fact that Costes provides higher ti►rfi ' ' i ---- ersgesind than tate anion contraets provide. _ befit of mare — Mayor Settle voted contrary to the recommendation of his planning jecaoinic�ban a_m eM �� staff,the Planning Commission,the Chamber of Commerce,and many year in salsa taa of you,the citizens of San Luis Obispo. des n mica m We still have hope!The City Council will consider the ordinance again f I ti Obispomaiden on Tuesday night, February 6, at 7 p.m. We need your help to convince Mayor Settle to change his mind and eliminate his support for the ' be.arced to Pay unions' ordinance.The only outcome of this ordinance will be tois - �and prohibit Costco and the consumer benefits it provides. l`teprimas a rtok _ �'8 DOn-CO®pOtiflYe . . . This ordinance takes away your right to decide which businesses you want in your community. ! A large portion of San Luis Obispo businesses and residents value the a qwd lselgitibor' Costco shopping experience.We do not believe that your City Council ' a beveffi Sam Lula should dictate the types of products and the prices that can be offered "`'"'� �''�� "" le osa4y ways: to you. Please let Mayor Settle know how you feel on this issue! etostco has always comome Show your support for fair competition and lower prices by kia6i k Bow pitigea.in every doing the following: •ty whm . • Contact Mayor Allen Settle by telephone at(805)781-7417, 5y a-mail af—asjrtte@Tocity.ocg,by fax at(805)751-7109 - - or by mail at 990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. '�'� quality =>t et great rdtica. • Attend the City Council public hearing on Tuesday night, February 6 at 7 pan.at the City Hall Council Chamber *We Provide good jobs. located at 990 Palm Street. My thanks in advance for any help you can provide, and most importantly,thanks again for being a Costco member. T Yours very truly. 4!�47. !� z �'.�e.�-.Jeffrey H. Brotman( airman P.O. 8o=34.535,Sea* WA 98124.1535. 1800)77,d-2678• www.coslco.ccm r��y MEE..,JG AGENDA DATE a - "0 ITEM # Francis Abba January 29, 2001 519 Morning Rae Ln Arroyo Grande, CA ChvUtine Muehottand City Council San Luiz Obizpo Dear Me Mue.hol".and; I want to applaud you bor your integrity .in, voting again-st Co-stco. I am -sure you wilt be reading a tot o6 2etter-s to .the editor in the Tribune trying to maize you change your po-s.it.i.on. Ptea-se .stick to your idea.2-s. S.i.ne er et y, RECEIVED A m 3 1 2001 3LO CITY COUNCIL WNW4 RECEIVED MEETING , p� AGENDA IAN 3 0 2001 DATE Z y ITEM # January 29, 2001 3LO CITY COUNCIL Councilwoman Christine Mulholland 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Re: COSTCO Dear Councilwoman Mulholland: We were certainly disappointed in your vote and the final outcome of the ordinance which will prevent COSTCO from locating here. The ordinance as passed dictates the interior space use of businesses. We think this concept is inappropriate and lends itself to all kinds of uses and abuses as well as potential enforcement problems. Concern has been expressed about possible effect on our downtown. We can't really think of any businesses in our downtown which would be in competition with COSTCO. If it was not apparent before the January council vote it certainly is clear now that our community overwhelmingly supports having a COSTCO here. We understand that this ordinance will come up for a final vote on February 6. We encourage you to reflect the clearly expressed community sentiment and vote "no" on the ordinance and "yes" on the possibility of a COSTCO here. Sincerely yours, /ae4 )tz e Mary Ruth and George R. Mach 1684 Alrita Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 JAN - 3 0 - 01 TUE 8 - 12 P . 02 i RECEIVED January 30, 2001 JAN 3 0 2001 SLO CITY CLERK To: Mayor Allen K. Settle Vice-Mayor John Ewan Councilwoman Jan Howell Marx MEETING AGENDA Councilman Ker1 SchwartzDATE a'o o 1ITEM # Councilwoman Christine Mulholland c/oCity Hall, San Luis Obispo via fax#781-7109 Re: Proposed floor space restriction ordinance Dear Mayor Settle & distinguished Council Members: 1 am writing to express my support for a Costco in the City of San Luis Obispo to be located on the Froom Ranch. I am against a restrictive ordinance on the amount of floor space for, in this case, grocery items. Please accept my apology for this lengthy note, however this is an extremely important issue and an open mind while reading this is appreciated. I am an 18 year residence of the City of San Luis Obispo, both my children were born hear, my wife has lived in the county for over 35 years, and I am a local business owner. There is a lot of talk about our area needing "sustainability" as to the resources we use/consume. Whether it be pollution control, energy efficiency, water resource management and others. Not to be left out however, is economic sustainability. It is this aspect that determines a Cities well being and why I support a Costco in SLO. Lack of foresight with utility deregulation & Diablo Canyon fears has lead to lower PG&E property tax revenue resulting in a major financial impact on our school system. Similarly, insufficient water resource planning has lead to the Santa Margarita Lake controversy and the huge financial costs that will result. This same lack of foresight can be applied to the proposed ordinance. One can only conclude that the financial consequences to this & previous lack of forward thinking will be borne by the tax payers who elect you. Like it or not, Costco is popular with County residences, and they will continue to patronize the store. If you think funding future shortfalls with fee hikes, bed tax increases, utility taxes increases, service cut backs, etc. will solve current problems, you are mistaken. Restrictions without merits, such as this floor space regulation, on the free enterprise system will lead to financial consequences similar to the utility &water examples mentioned above. This does not mean planning & architectural review should be set aside, it simply means that arbitrary &capricious restrictions should not be indiscriminately applied. The floor space requirement is { arbitrary & in fact discriminatory. Using the same logic, Home Base should also be limited in - ii i I1 ' i in " - SO - 01 TUE e " 13 P . 03 f for example - lumber space, as it will compete with existing lumber yards. Or could an existing hardware store use your floor space ordinance and apply it to other products they sell that Home Base will offer. Where will it end? Avoid this conflict and approve Costco based on their product mix choice or, with valid reasoning, reject them entirely. Do not hide behind the thin I vail of a restrictive shadow approval. Costco would fit well in our City. Costco's presence will provide an excellent source of tax revenue currently lost to Santa Maria. It is reported that as much as three-quarters of a million dollars in local sales tax revenue is lost to Santa Maria, not to mention the ten's of thousands of road miles going from SLO to Santa Maria's Costco and back. In that same vein remember, an approval of Costco in SLO is friendly to the environment. Less wear & tear on the vehicles & roads, less pollution & fuel usage,revenue staying in our county, etc. Costco presence in SLO is a win/win for everyone - residences, business, government and the environment. Please set aside your personal prejudices, reject the floor space ordinance and, for the sake of our SLO residences, approve Costco's application as submitted. Thank you. I Respectfully submitted, i Bill Hockey !' 389 Montrose Dr. 7 San Luis Obispo i i i i i i i , JANUARY 24 , 2001 MEETING SANDY GRISWOLD VIDAK DATE ; 2 .6,p1 AGENDA 1368 5TH STREET. .ITEM # (► v LOS OSOS, CA 93402 .' - SAN 3402 .'SAN LUIS .OBISPO CITY COUNSIL: I DON 'T BELIEVE. IT ! 'THE CITY COUNSIL . IS ON THE' SIDE OF THE GIANT GROCERY CHAIN STORES ! OH , BOY ; BUT VONS,- RALPHS, ALBERTSONS, FOODS FOR LESS ARE .ALL ESTATIC ! ' NO COSTCO TO HELP PERSUADE .TH-FM TO REDUCE 'SOME OF THEIR OUTRAGIOUSLY HIGH PRICES. NOW WE STILL SUFFER,. AND 'HAVE TO' DRIVE ALL THE WAY TO SANTA MARIA TO- DO OUR SHOPPING FOR CERTAIN ITEMS. AND OF COURSE , WHILE WE ARE THERE ; LETS GO TO THE MALL, OR SEARS, PENNEYS. AND SOME. OF . THOSE SMALL SPECIALTY DRESS SHOPS..:" OH , AND- LETS HAVE LUNCH TOO WHILE WE ARE THERE . BEFORE YOU KNOW IT , 7 TO 8 HOURS HAVE GONE BY , AND IT' S TIME TO HEAD BACK HOME TO SAN LUIS, OBISPO, A• LIT.TLE TIRED, AND $600 TO $9,00 LIGHTER. . . I WOULD LIKE TO SEE US , THE BUSINESSES IN SAN LUIS OBISPO, GETTING ALL THESE BENEFITS . NOW, I COULD UNDERSTAND IT , .. IF BLOCKING COSTCO WOULD BENEFIT OUR SMALL NEIGHBORHOOD GROCERS , BUT IT DOESN' T, IT WON 'T. AND IT CAN 'T . WE GO TO THE LOCAL MARKET , NOT FOR- THE SALE PRICES , BUT .FOR THE CONVENIENCE . . OF IT ' S LOCATION , FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE., AND- FRESH -LOCAL MEATS AND VEGETABLES . WHO IS BEING HURT HERE WITH YOUR -DECISION-AGAINST COSTCO? . . . LOCAL PEOPLE , RESIDENTS,. SMALL BUSINESSES , MOMS 'AND DADS SHOPPING FOR. THEIR FAMILIES.' SO ,WHO IS BEING HELPED. ? . . .VONS, RALPHS,. ALBERTSONS , IN SHORT ALL .THE ' "BIG GROCERY CHAIN STORES" , THAT YOU CLAIM TO. .BE KEEPING OUT . ALSO, WHY IS OUR. CI•TY ' PREJUDICEDAGAINST THE ELDERLY, HANDICAPPED , MOM' S WITH SHIRT-TAIL KIDS , PREGNANT. WOMEN , ROAD WEARY TRAVELERS, ILL. PEOPLE , AND .ANYONE . . WHO IS TOO TIRED TO, 'OR UNABLE 'TO GET OUT OF THEIR CAR, FIND A PLACE TO PARK, WALK UP STEPS WITH A CANE , SHAKEY AND BREATHLESS., JUST TO GET A DRINK OR A SNACK 70 GET THEM ,BY,. . . ? SOMETIMES THIS CAN BE A MEDICALLY CRITICAL SITUATION. HAVE. YOU EVER SEEN AN OLDER PERSON SO DRY MOUTHED AND THIRSTY THEY CAN'T HARDLY TALK? OR ONE SO SHAKEY AND 'WEAK FROM A SUDDEN DROP IN BLOOD SUGAR THAT IT IS URGENT THEY EAT OR DRINK SOMETHING " IMMEDIATELY".. . . . If ON'LY THEY COULD JUST DRIVE UP TO -THE CONVENIENCE OF A FOOD SERVICE WINDOW. . ' 'ALL THE OTHER TOWNS HAVE THEM!. 1 THIS . HAS BOTHERED ME FOR YEARS. ESPECIALLY WHEN MY 93 YEAR - OLD DAD HAD TO GO WITHOUT FOOD OR DRINK JUST BECAUSE SOMEONE THOUGHT IT WOULD -HELP KEEP POLUTION DOWN TO BAN "DRIVE UP" FOOD SERVICE WINDOWS . . ..'. .WHY DIDN 'T THEY ALSO BAN BANK DRIVE UP .WINDOWS? THEIR LINES ARE LONGER AND TAKE ' LONGER TO GET THROUGH, THEREBY POLUTING MORE. HOW ABOUT MAKING SOME CHANGES "FOR THE PEOPLE" ? RECEIVED . JUST CONCERNED, LOCAL SAN LUIS OBISPO BUSINESS WOMAN . IAN I SINCERELY , $L.O CITY COUNCIL SANDY. VIDAK FROM LeeInsur PHONE NO. 605 7el 6166 Jan. 31 2001 09:50RM P1 MEETING AGENDA G DATE ITEM #--- January 24, 2000 SLO City Council Re: San Luis Marketplace Honorable City Council Members; We are both property owners and registered voters who are writing this letter to show our support for the above project. We have been following the city's processing of this project for some time now. It is most disappointing that the City Council would fail to approve the San Luis Marketplace, especially since it is a project that is in line with the General Plan, staff recommendations, Planning Commission and prior Councils. Furthermore, it seems to be the general will of the people. Additionally, we are members of Costco and adamantly support bringing a Costco Store to San Luis for the convenience of its 5,000 members . . . and for the additional tax revenue it would generate. Statistics were presented at a recent public meeting that reflected past usage of Costco, Santa Maria, by SLO members. Those statistics definitely reiterate support of a SLO Costco by both San Luis Obispo and north county patrons! There is overwhelming community support for this project that is highly visible. We urge the members of the City Council to acknowledge this public support and immediately rethink their position on this project. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely', Barbara Barker Ellen Barker FROM RICHARDSON PHONE NO. : 8057E12504 Jan. 31 2001 09:31AM P1 ,4EETING,ob a� AGENDA G v 0RICHARDSON DATE ?-►TES # 11PROPERTIES Real Estate Investments January 24, 2000 SLO City Council FAX#781-7109 Re: San Luis Marketplace Honorable City Council Members: I have been a member of the local business community for approximately 12 years. I am also an active member of the local the California Building Industry Association, the National Home Builders Association, the Home Builders Association of the Central Coast, the California Association of Realtors, and the Pismo Coast Association of Realtors. I am writing this letter to express my full support for the above project. I have been following the city's processing of this project for some time now. From all indications this project has received overwhelming support from the majority of our community. It is very disappointing that the City Council would fail to approve the San Luis Marketplace, especially since it is a project that is in line with the city's General Plan, staff recommendations, our Planning Commission and prior Councils. I would also like to mention that I am a member of Costco. I adamantly support bringing a Costco Store to San Luis for the convenience of its 5,000 members and for the additional tax revenue it would generate for the City. Published statistics definitely reiterate support of a SLO Costco by both San Luis Obispo and north county patrons! There is substantial community support for this project that is highly visible. I would like to take this opportunity to urge the City Council to acknowledge this public.support and immediately rethink their position on this project. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Charlie Richardson, President 1042 Pacific Street, Suite E, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805)781-6040 • FAX (805)781-2504 www.richardsonproperties.com REUE- ED Orf' 3 0 2001 MEETING _0 AGENDA C SAO CITY COUNCIL DATE Z --ITEM #._.--- Thad Maziarz January 26, 2001 10480 Santa Ana Rd. Atascadera,CA 93422 The Honorable Alan K.Settle Mayor, City of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle: Please consider my endorsement of a COSTCO Store in San Luis Obispo. It would be very beneficial to your city by increasing the tax . revenue, bringing more people into San Luis Obispo to patronize other stores in the area, and saving us both time and gas. Appreciate your assistance in allowing COSTO to build a store in San Luis Obispo. Sincerely Od � 2 � G ��'l fa-�. �.�2 Y Imo`• MEETIf G_6_01 AGENDA CZ DATE ITEM # Roland C. Maddalena 1329 Broad Street San Luis Obispo, Ca 93401 (805)543-9312 For(805)543-9317 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo,Ca 93401 Re:Proposed ordinance to limit the size of non-taxable sales areas in stores. Dear Allen, Shakespeare's Hamlet pondered the question "to be or not to be, that is the question?"and finally chose to die honorably. You must decide and ponder the question "Costo, to be or not to be, that is the question." Is how you voted truly what the majority of the people that you represent want? First, It is said that a Costo will generate added traffic and pollution. Nobody can stop the unknown hundreds of people who now drive 30 or more miles to shop, when if a Costo were in our community the drive would be only 3 miles. This would amount to a reduction of travel miles by 10 times or a 1000 % reduction of travel for those who will continue to drive to Santa Maria. Secondly,No Government is able to exist and provide services to it's citizenry without tax revenues.Sadly, our City and County are witnessing this with the gradual "meltdown" of PG&E and Other utility tax assessments. School budgets are shrinking, soon roads and other services will suffer, and all the while shoppers are traveling to the neighboring county to"ring their cash registers".In medieval times kingdoms would conquer their neighbors and haul home their bounty. Today,by denying Costo entry to our city,we are assisting and inviting Santa Maria to enter our City and haul home the bounty. Please realize that we are not only talking about sales tax dollars, but property assessment dollars, payroll tax dollars, utility assessment dollars, development fee dollars. The list is endless. Also, there is no way that many of the needed street widening,street light, and other infrastructure projects are able to be accomplished without the needed development and private enterprise. Local governments hardly have enough money to maintain the status quo. Thirdly, Is it morally right to deny the Citizens of San Luis Obispo their right of choice? With a better selection of goods, at a competitive or more affordable cost, conveniently available, everyone benefits through a higher standard of life. Allen,I urge you to do the honorable thing and reconsider your support of the proposed ordinance. Please request that it be stricken from the consent agenda. And finally, please support th denial of this ordinance. MS' Rol d Maddalena Sent By: REAL ESTATE GROUP; 805 541 0390; Jan-30-01 2:32PM; Page 1 /1 MEETING AGENDA -v c5 <<s b DATE 1�0ITEM # � P Gm Q o' �' fh Th � --ova- Y(-q., f7�rk (''t Tavoy 0 e.3 W UU• t �k ;cx Yid W tlt,��(Q YtcSZ' C��J 'i�t� CF C.i S (k. C.C/Ylcyc <c [Tf A.. CM ( �-P r— �� i� �(-C.c� c rn<� CSS c.1� s5 lot. p CcV, n4�.clJ kAs-T t�' l�.e,(l K `T�. ,mss r c per kc *= S V l LAI -P,cv L4�� �� �s r5 r ins LvuS Iv-am'� r v ' / MD i4ti3 ! P y tnougnts . . . MEETING AGENDA Foryour considerat�Tr.:.--ITE111I From: Jerry Dagna (e-mail.- tooS/o@msn.com) 1845 Vicente Drive San Luis Obispo.. CA 93405 Home: 805-544-6557 (Fax., 544-6555) To SLO City Council Fax +1 (805) 781-7109 My thoughts: To all City Council members, I am asking you vote "NO" on the upcoming ordinance that will restrict the Costco project in San Luis Obispo. Here are my reasons. PLEASE consider them carefully and do not miss this great opportunity for our city. 1) $700,000 in tax revenue that is needed HERE! Not north of the grade 2) Shoppers coming to Costco WILL stay for dinner and other downtown shopping. The downtown needs your help! (Just ask the restaurants & other stores surrounding Costco!) 3) This project is perfect for that area! It will bring more people to the auto dealers who are the single largest source of tax revenues for the city. Costco will increase this tax revenue as well! It's a "win/win" for our city! 4) San Luis SHOULD be the shopping center of the county Costco will insure that! 5) Government should NEVER get involved in controlling business practices! George Orwell is rolling over in his grave as you vote to manipulate business. This is wrong, and deep down you know it! 6) Traffic can be best handled at that end of town and with the widening of L.O.V.R that will solve the cities problem free of charge. 7) Trading pollution due to driving does NOT help our community, not to mention the traffic safety hazards in long trips to Santa Maria, or North of the grade. 8) If a Costco were to go into town. I would Alex to be in charge of the building and how it will fit into our cityscape, rather than the cookie cutter buildings they are used to building E ED1 cc, 9) So many families visiting their students here frequent the SM Costco to fill the cupboards in the students homes! Don't make them leave town to do that! They are used to shopping in a Costco in their own home towns! 10) Residents of San Luis DO want a Costco, it's just that some don't mind driving to where the nearest store is! This fact is proved over and over by many different sources. Save our taxes! Please change your "YES" vote against Costco, or plead with the other council members to see your "NO" vote is the way to go! Do the right thing and bring Costco to San Luis. Vote NO on restricting retail food square footage or store sizes when that comes up. Thank you, Jerry Dagna Tooslo@msn.com 544-6557 $ '1$2$87244 PO1 RINA COLOR LAB TO niYu k LC Al C = 755 ALPHONSO AVENUE .. TT G L SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401 (805) 543.2947 1226 SUBJECT: MEETING o�—oIDA AGENDA DATE FOLD 411- SIGNED In u M7.nuunl.+ AVAILARI F FROU RUSMESS ENVELOPE MANUFACTLRICRS.INC•DEER PARR.N.Y •ANAHUM.CALIF. RECEjVEO 14"13 4ti3 1 ?001 C SLO ITY C0 �NCIL °METING AGENDA Mr. and Mrs. David T.Hannah L..1 EZDV_ 6 ITEM # C 1,- 4433 Poinsettia Street San Luis Obispo,California 93401 January 29, 2001 San Luis Obispo City Council 990 Palm San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 The local news broadcast this evening stated that at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 6, there would be another vote regarding the permission to build a Costco store in Mr. Madonna's development on Los Osos Valley Road. When we first heard that the plans included a Costco store we were very pleased. We have been members of Costco since 1989 and have found it to be very beneficial even though it means driving to Santa Maria. On our most recent visit we not only spent a significant amount of money at Costco but we also shopped at Home Depot, Robinsons and Gottschalks as well as having lunch. Had there been a Costco in San Luis Obispo we would have spent our money here and the City would have benefitted from the sales taxes. We ask that you reconsider your stand regarding the inclusion of a Costco store in this development and grant them, and Mr. Madonna, permission to proceed. Very truly yours, ia RECEIVED .IAN 3 1 2001 SLO CITY COUNCIL Ni�cTING AGENDA DATE Z =-ITEM.# _—C —�-- Y. Eta- n- ; - 4.7 `,. .. . SLO city:Council Members........ N,o.:.781-7109 No: Paces to collo vis 0 Dates'.1/311/01. . . RE: Meet}h$of 2/6/01 rom: Beverly James To all Sari Obispo-City Counetl'Iwiembem; tCd'itetn:fro�i�tM c�►u Ot;op da for the next meeting; and open Please.remove the Cos it.up againfor'discussion and:.tnput i atn:a native of.San Luis Obispo:..:;.,.: • ;.}:.:`s' When government imerferes+nth tlfe free°tt4aret eon► eUtidn and.econotny that we enjoy iti this cog!itry.,the result is:lii� i�!.: eir trier t ..<: A.poteittiai:competition:wJiich could result.fiotn establishment of a:CostCo:is'faT'ls.�iripgrta .tfian that factor- and:also; l suspect, would have:,a far less nega#ive ttnpact Phan you are expecting, T u . 8(p C/M 3 1 z001 Tl'CCUNC/� P 030796 5s Iii-Is;Elbi6yo •CA 93406 . t8i131Sif70011s: ;jSOSJS '4= 423 01/31/2001 16:36 805-544-7516 POWELL BOOKKEEPING PAGE 01 MEETING AGENDA DATE 7-06-2 ITEM # Glenda Powell 466 Woodbridge St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 January 31, 2001 Mayor Allen Settle 990 Palm St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle I am very much in favor of having a Costco in the city of San Luis Obispo, I don't feel it will hurt the supermarkets in this community as it is directed mainly at large quantity items. People will still continue to purchase from Costco so I think our city should get the benefit of the tax dollars that will be generated by having the store here. Maybe we could even get the streets in the downtown repaved if we had more tax revenue. I feel you are doing a dis-service to the citizens of San Luis Obispo by not representing them, but only addressing your own agenda. Thank you and I hope you will reconsider your vote on this project. Glenda Powell 29 year resident of San Luis Obispo 4*3 D sl0o�Tyo O�No�` 01/31/01 13:24 FAX 805 543 4403 JEAN YU LA•c a0i Dear Allen Settle: We, 10 peoples in our office strongly want Costco be allowed in SLO. We ! need low prices & fair competition. I Your favorable consideration would be greatly appreciated. Very Truly Yours •J V a 1 REC��V� .ia4 0 3 s�ociTy � ?oo� co JAM-31-01 02 : 19 PM MERILYN MILBURN 9055112901 P. 01 .TING o� _o� AGENDA WE Z ITEM # L' y January 31, 200: Allen Settle, Mayor Cit:v of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm Street San ]'.,uis Obispo, CA 4.1401 Dear Sir: have just received correspondence trnm COS= regardinq the city's refusal rn allow them to operate d sLaie wir..rin this city. A3 a member of Costco, I would appy.-ociate having a 3LOI-E in cloncr proxim:Lty to the one in Santa Maria. Tn addition to the fact that it's 30 miles away, the Sala; tax is higher in Santa R2rhara (..minty than in San Luis ObiSPV. This results in me having to drive to Santa Maria and pdyitiy nuue for what I puLc;hd---e in Lhat store than I would have to pay if' .it was in Sar: Lui:3 Orlispo. In addition to the :onvP.niP.nrP for myself and other mPmhfarS wrio live in this area, I believe it can u<<ly benefit the C11,1 by ttte revenue arid empluyme[iL L.hat would be generated from suCh a store. I don't believe there would be a significant change in the purchaac3 at the supermarkets which are already located in the city. Most of the purchas?s made at Costco are h1iIk pirchasP9 which are nor. available at local stores. I request that you reconsider your 311ppprt for the crdi.nance that has prohibited ouch a store from locating here. You rs tt'ru t'y' 1 McAlyn Milburn 650 Tank P'arm Road r AFcF/�E� 3�0 C/� 3 ?ail CO USC/l Sent By: BREMEN PEST CONTROL INC: 805 5442807; Jan-31 -01 4:18; Page 1 /1 MtETING AGENDA DATE � °b -° 1 ITEM # C January 31, 2001 Mayor Settle. I respect your decision concerning Costco but would like you to know how I feel about your decision. I travel to Costco in Santa Maria. While I do by some food items, my main reason for shopping Costco are for the other products they offer. Most of my food shopping is done at other stores. Having a Costco here in SLO would save me time and gas. This would keep the taxes here in SLO and would promote cleaner air quality to the area. Another reason, and for me the most important, is that by not letting Costco into SLO to participate in America's free market, it seems un-American to me. Also as a business owner in SLO, Brezden Pest Control, I feel that I am being discriminated against. When Terminix, Orkin or Hydrex come to SLO and participate in the pest control industry they are permitted to do so. If you could pass an ordinance to keep them out I think it would greatly help me financially but it would be against my beliefs as an American. I ur ou to allow Costco into SLO for the reasons I have stated above. Jo rezden SAO c/TY3 ?OD, c0U Nc�� FROM LeeInsur PHONE NO. : 605 781 6166 Jan. 31 2001 02:52PM P1 MEETING AGENDA DATE z'ob -01 ITEM # Martin & Mary Schrader 275 Crestmont Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-545-9303 January 31, 2000 SLO City Council Re: San Luis Marketplace & Costco Honorable Mayer & City Council Members: We are writing this letter because we support the above projects. We have been following the city's processing of this project for some time now. It is most disappointing that the City Council would fail to approve the San Luis Marketplace, especially since it is a project that is in line with the General Plan, staff recommendations, Planning Commission and prior Councils. Furthermore, it seems to be the general will of the people. Additionally, we are members of Costco and adamantly support bringing a Costco Store to San Luis for the convenience of its 5,000 members . . . and for the additional tax revenue it would generate. Statistics were presented at a recent public meeting that reflected past usage of Costco. Santa Maria, by SLO members. Those statistics definitely reiterate support of a SLO Costco by both San Luis Obispo and north county patrons! There is overwhelming community support for this project that is highly visible. We urge the members of the City Council to acknowledge this public support and immediately rethink their position on this project. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Martin & Mary Schrader PON 4o O��'j. 1 C® JAN-31-01 WED 03 :55 PM OLSEN _ 805 543 0462 P. 01 311 a O 0/ MEETING AGENDA DATED z ITEM # G TC, C�-•e '� S c v �, v-r'P's .deo " U 4A..- • �- I cam do M-+ / -vwo� •fey.... a.�c.�l�� ot, ?lwx4t& 44fte I"-."t f 11-0 /�-" `l ARIL �eec-YeV t�i�.e. `� GI•�La.s �' e.. I jet 0 r �s From: "Almas, William" <walmas@unocal.com> To: "'asettle@slocity.org"' <asettle@slocity.org>, "'jewan@slocity.org"' <jewan@slocity.org>, "'kschwartz@slocity.org'° <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 7:51 PM Subject: Costco Issues I am writing this e-mail as a resident of San Luis Obispo and not as a representative of Unocal Corporation. To the Honorable Mayor Settle: I believe that you are making a fundamental mistake voting against the proposed Costco based upon square footage of grocery within the store. This is not the right issue to oppose "Big Box" stores on. This is simply a convenient tool for opposition. I believe that my position is very close to Councilmen John Ewan's regarding this matter. From a broader prospective, I believe that your position regarding this issue raises fundamental questions to any individual or organization seriously evaluating San Luis Obispo as a place to locate or even expand. Business has a poor tolerance for high risk ventures when there are alternatives. Consistency and being able to reasonably predict the outcome of an economic endeavor are important. I for one wish to see the City grow in a slow but planned and orderly way allowing economic growth that allows employment opportunities and an adequate tax base to maintain the quality of life we enjoy in San Luis Obispo. Please reconsider your position on this matter. Bill Almas 4592 Spanish Oak Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 E-Mail:WALMAS@UNOCAL.COM Bill Almas Unocal Corporation Central Coast Group P.O. Box 1069 San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 E-Mail: WALMAS@UNOCAL.COM From: "Budd Dressler" <ctdfcl @charter.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:07 PM Subject: Madonna Development I urge you to reconsider your vote on the Madonna development. I have concerns about several elements in your solution. Dear Mr. Ewan: Please reconsider your vote on the Madonna/Costco development. 1. The ordinance that you may pass is a poor way to keep out big box stores. In fact, it would lead one to believe that the City Council might consider other laws that would put limitations on the type of goods that can be sold under one roof. Would that mean the the Vons store near my house could no longer sell televisions or watches (as they have done recently? 2. In order to maintain the wonderful services that the city provides, it needs to maintain a substantial tax base. The revenues from a Costco Store would certainly bring a substantial sum to the city coffers. Is the city so well off that the Council members haven't wondered how they could get the funds to keep needed city functions going? 3. Many of us in the community shop at the Costco in Santa Maria. We would like to have the opportunity to spend our earnings in this community...not in Santa Maria. I support local businesses AND I also shop at Costco. Nothing would change if the Costco were in my own back yard. I will be among the crowd at the Council meeting tomorrow. I hope that you allow the public to voice its concern and I hope that you listen with an open mind. You are our elected officials. Your are supposed to be representing your constituents. Susan Dressler From: "frances wheeler" <FRANCESRN@msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:07 PM Subject: costco i want a costco here...i am sick of driving to sm every month....i still shop here and will con't to ...please let there be a costco here in slo!!!!!! frances wheeler and family<br clear=all><hr>Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at<a h ref="http://explorer.msn.com">http:Hexp lorer.msn.com</a><br></p> y From: Denise Dowell <Denise@DDowell.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:07 PM Subject: Yes on Costco I am a resident of Morro Bay. I do not know if my opinion means anything with the SLO city council, but I would like to make my opinion known. I would very much like to have a Costco in the area. Currently I drive to Santa Maria to go to Costco. Normally, since it is such a long drive, I make a day trip of it and shop at other stores in Santa Maria as long as I am down there. I usually have either lunch or dinner there during my shopping trip. I was very pleasantly surprised when one of my favorite restaurants,The Hometown Buffet, opened in SLO. My husband and I have already eaten there and last weekend we tried out Tahoe Joes next to The Hometown Buffet. We love both of those restaurants. On our shopping trips to Costco in Santa Maria we sometimes ate at The Hometown Buffet Now we have one right in our area! Thank you all for that. I would much rather have my tax dollars stay in San Luis Obispo. I cannot vote in San Luis Obispo at the ballot box, but I can at the cash register. Thank you. Denise Dowell 2627 Laurel Ave. Morro Bay, CA 93442 805 772-8648 From: "David R. Purl" <davepurl@email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:21 PM Subject: 24 Years In SLO...We Want A Costco! Vice Mayor John Ewan: We both have been local residents of the San Luis Obispo area for over 20 years each. We have witnessed many changes over the years...some good, some bad. We are writing to you personally regarding the Costco issue, and the impact of the "big-box" initiative. Simply put, we are both in favor of Costco coming to San Luis Obispo on the Froom Ranch Development. In fact, we would both prefer a full-service, full-size Costco! The reason is clear...we have both been Costco members, since the store opened in Santa Maria. We are tired of the 90 mile monthly round-trip "pilgrimage"to Santa Maria for Costco...we are tired of the tax revenue that this store generates going to Santa Barbara County, not San Luis Obispo County...we would truly enjoy the ability of utilizing Costco's benefits much closer to home. It appears that the supermarket unions have made their impact on both the Mayor's Office, and the City Council. We both believe Costco serves no appreciable threat to what is rapidly becoming a "glut" of huge, multi-functional supermarkets in this area. We both still shop Scolari's, Ralph's, Albertson's, and Von's with nearly the same frequency as we shopped William's Bros. prior to becoming Costco members. Costco's packages many of it's goods in volume much too large for our personal consumption...therefore, we look to our local supermarkets to provide products in sizes we can use. We still, very much, enjoy Costco's value in many of their goods and services...and our membership fee has saved us hundreds of dollars over the years! We also firmly believe that Costco would provide a great source of employment for college students, and other SLO area youth starting out on their careersl It is for these reasons,the we both adamantly endorse Costco coming to San Luis Obispo...and wish you would reconsider the size ordinance and allow Costco to come in with a Full-Service, Full-Size store. Thank you for your time and consideration! Sincerely, David R Purl Phone: (805) 528-2003 E-Mail: davepurl@msn.com Madalyn D.Jorgensen Phone: (805) 528-3315 From: "john wallace" <walldaddy45@hotmail.com> To: <aseftle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 8:35 PM Subject: COSTCO To whom it may concern, We as San Luis Obispo City residents, request you to allow a normal, full sized Costco to be built ASAP. Why, because your vote will: 1. help lower the incredibly high costs of living in SLO (second place nationwide behind the greater San Jose/San Francisco area) 2. raise funds for schools to off-set money lost on Diablo Canyon 3. lessen smog by shortening the route everyone travels currently to get to Costco 4. the time and money we save at Costco here in SLO,we'll help us to maintain our homes and businesses, and allow us to afford shopping downtown Again, we do live in SLO and you told us that we are the people you want to hear from. GIVE US A COSTCO!!!!l We'll remember your vote when it comes time to vote for city council members. GIVE US A COSTCO!!!!!! Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at hftp://explorer.msn.com CC: <jewan@slocity.org> From: <JANBUNNELL®aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:07 PM Subject: YES on COSTCO Mayor Settle, cc to John Ewan, Jan Howell Marx, Ken Schwartz, and Christine Mulholland I have lived in San Luis Obispo since 1966. 1 cannot attend the meeting on Feb 6th but do want you to know that I spend$200 to$500 per trip to Costco. I drive to Santa Maria to shop at that store! The property in question belongs to Mr Madonna who has paid taxes on that property for years. He has the right to develop his property in the direction he feels best. I want you to vote YES ON COSTCO Thank you Jan Bunnell CC: <Jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarz@slocity.org>, <kswchwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: "Peter B. Sanford" <peter@gdl-online.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <madonna@fix.net> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:27 PM Subject: We favor Costco in San Luis Obispo- Please Reconsider Dear San Luis Obispo Council Members: I am in favor of a local Costco. I live in Morro Bay. It's 90 miles round-trip for us to make a"Costco run." Because we have to go that far we have lunch and/or dinner in the Santa Maria area and maybe fit in a movie or a trip to Home Depot. San Luis Obispo is losing my tax dollars. There is little point for me to write a long dissertation. I'm sure all of the points pro and con have been made. I simply wish to add one more family to the record saying that, although we all love this area, it is no longer pristine. Costco will not ruin it.What is Foods for Less if not a big box store? Reality dictates that people will continue to move here and those people should have the opportunity to have services that will eventually and inevitably become available. San Luis Obispo encourages tourism and loves to show off the city and the area and then essentially says: "come look at what we have and support our tourist trade but don't you dare move here!" I always support local business and will continue to do so in Morro Bay. I would rather pay more to a local merchant than drive to Santa Maria or buy on the Internet. Our family frequents many local restaurants and shops. However, Costco offers certain items that we have not been able to find locally. I shop often in San Luis Obispo. Unfortunately, if this ridiculous, narrowly-targeted ordinance succeeds, I will be tempted to avoid shopping in the City of San Luis in protest. I will consider taking my business to surrounding cities and counties. This proposed ordinance appears to solve nothing in particular. It only hurts the pocketbook of the City, County, and possibly most important, us little people with incomes less than $30k per year. Please reconsider! Sincerely and Respectfully, Peter B. Sanford Morro Bay Resident (and ultra-small business owner) From: <Clubbering@aol.com> To: <Asettle@slocity.org>, <Jewan@slocity.org>, <Jmarx@slocity.org>, <Kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:30 PM Subject: (no subject) We want you to know that we would welcome a Costco in San Luis now we are tired of giving our tax dollars to Santa Barbara County.We feel it should be given to our own county of San Louis Obispo. The Lubbering Family From: <Franknwier@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:46 PM Subject: Big box ordinance& San Luis Marketplace Dear Mayor Settle and Councilmembers: My husband and I would like to encourage you to uphold the ordinance regarding the amount of floorspace a store may dedicate to grocery items. I personally have no desire to shop at Costco, and feel that the town is better off without one. However, if Costco does want to build a store here they should respect the ordinance and build their store within the 90,000 square foot limitation. Many of the letters to the editor against the ordinance are written by people living outside the city. Many people would come to San Luis Obispo to shop at Costco and create traffic congestion and air pollution for the residents. It seems that a Costco is more in tune with the way Atascadero and Paso Robles want to grow. Also, while we have your attention, we would like to address the San Luis Marketplace. We feel that the existing Madonna center is underutilized and should be redeveloped before prime agricultural land is converted. In addition,the financial arrangement regarding the freeway overpass leaves the city too financially vulnerable. Thank you for reading about our concerns. Sincerely, Laura Frank and Eric Wier 1700 San Luis Drive San Luis Obispo CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: <Donncmcc@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <Kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:47 PM Subject: Clean air.Less traffic.Fuller tax coffer. Now my family drives past Froom ranch to Santa Maria to shop at Costco (because they have some things that no other store has) while down there we do other shopping also. If you people would let Costco build and serve the people of this county,there would be less traffic going thru lovr, onto the freeway, less air pollution from cars not driving 50 more miles&our tax dollars would stay here.(for youall to spend!) I really don't want a pig farm to welcome guests to our area. I would like to stop hearing folks from other areas call this neat town "San Luis Gestapo" Please listen to the majority who want Costco.Thank You D. C. Mcclish family From: <Ruthie1111 @aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:05 PM Subject: Yes on Costco Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members: I would like to encourage you to reconsider the council's approval of the ordinance that you have voted to approve regarding limiting the square footage allowed for the sale of groceries in a so called big box store. It does not make sense to me to protect the large supermarkets in San Luis Obispo from the competition of a Costco store. The supermarkets are not locally owned stores. They are huge corporations whose headquarters are far away from here. So, in reality, you are protecting Albertsons, Ralphs, Vons and Scolari's. If you are going to limit grocery sales, why not limit hardware, carpet, nursery, or lighting sales to protect local businesses from a store like Home Depot? It just does not make sense. I believe a Costco would be a great addition to our city. It would provide many jobs for people in a city where the cost of living keeps going up, and jobs can be difficult to find. It would give us the tax dollars that residents from our county have been spending in Santa Maria for many years. Since I have shopped at the Santa Maria Costco since it opened, I am sure that I will continue to do so, if one is not allowed to be built here. However, I would prefer to be able to save the time and gasoline that it takes to drive to Santa Maria and spend my money in San Luis Obispo. Sincerely, Ruth A. Newell 1057 Pauline Way San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 544-8875 CC: <jewan®slocity.org> From: "ETHAN BERTRANDO" <bertrando @ thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:32 PM Subject: local family for costco Our family has been following the recent discussions regarding big box stores and allowing Costco into our county. I am troubled when I hear that you feel the public does not want Costco in our area. I have not heard of any opinion polls or surveys being conducted and I wonder if there is any objective data to support this position. I have discussed this matter with many people throughout the county and in the city of SLO and every single person I spoke with is in favor of having a Costco here. We are a family of four and would like to be able to shop at Costco without constantly driving to Santa Maria every few weeks. This does not take business away from other stores, because we will continue to make the trek if we must. Also,the items we are purchasing are not sold in "mom and pop" stores. We're talking about basic necessities that can be purchased at a much lower price than the big chain store grocery stores offer. It is extremely expensive to live here, but we'd like to be able to afford to stay in our home town. Not many people that we went to school with have been able to do so. Ms. Mulholland's comments that we should move is extremely offensive, and many feel an apology is due. As a person who was born at Sierra Vista Hospital, I'd call myself a local. And locals want Costco! Deb Bertrando From: "Elaine L Dutra" <edutra@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:35 PM Subject: Fw: Costco ---Original Message----- From: Elaine L Dutra<edutra®thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>; <jewan@sloccity.org>; <jmarx@slocity.org>; <kschwartz®slocity.org>; <cmulholland@slocity.org> Sent: Monday, February 05, 2001 10:18 PM Subject: Costco As a native born in 1940 and raised in SLO I would like to see San Luis the way it was in the 1950's. Since that will never happen, it is time to move forward. We need to have some shopping choices for our citizens. It isn't only the families with young children but also the senior citizens who would gain from a Costco. Those of us who drive to Santa Maria to shop Costco do not use them as our grocery store.Their presence in SLO would not stop people from shopping at the other grocery stores. Limiting the space Costco can devote to groceries is a mockery after allowing Ralph's to come and open their monstrosity. Since when are bikes,tires and the other things they sell "groceries"? I didn't see any uproar when they tried to open their store!! It is time to revote on this issue. Listen to and read what the local people want before making any decision at Tuesday's meeting. It is my belief you were elected to serve the people of SLO. From: "Bill Gibeaut"<mgt®slommp.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:03 PM Subject: Protecting the Tax base for both the City&County Given the lost of some of the 'Tax basis"for the Diablo Power Plant, I was appalled at the previous action taken by this group (of elected officials that are empowered to protect the overall interests of the total "Shareholders" of the great city of San Luis Obispo). As I understand the situation being reported in the Tribune, you can "redeem"your selves at Tuesday night's meeting 2/6 @ 7:00 PM!!!!!! Please reverse last meeting's vote and allow respectable stores (Casco & other Large Retail establishments)to come to our town. Does not make financial sense for 30,000 customer to go to the North county or South County location; when they, plus others, could do so in our city--without disrupting the infrastructure of our town, given it will be on Los Osos Valley Road. Please listen to the majority of our stakeholders and not the "Silent Majority"who want to maintain the Old Way at everyone's expense!!!!!!!! PS, Ms. Mulholland should attend professional sensitivity training post- haste, before she makes any big statements at future meetings!!! CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Hilary Gibeaut"<sales@slommp.com> From: <edbettymcd@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:19 PM Subject: Consideration of increase in revenue Dear Mayor&Council Persons We are old residents and owners of property for over 27 years. We have seen a transformation of the downtown stores now catering to the youth especially college students. We do not see many of these stores that have merchandise for the middle age families and elderly citizens. To obtain this type of merchandise we have to go to other city's in the county and Saint Maria. The City Council has pushed back the priority of a new or updated senior citizen complex with adequate parking. It is a disgrace to the citizens of the City of San Luis Obispo that the City has not provided an adequate Seniors facility. The Cities of Morro Bay,the South County and the City of Santa Maria have beautiful and flexible facilities that provide for it's senior citizens needs. We keep hearing that the city doesn't have the funds to provide a comparable facility to fill the needs of their citizens. The Unified Coastal School district are presently having a large deficit of funds for its operations.They do not have adequate funds to provide our youth the quality education that they have previously received. We the citizens of San Luis Obispo have received negative remarks from some of the Council persons that if we do not like the actions of the city council that we can move to another area. This type of attitude displayed by some members of the city council indicate that they are not interested in the needs of its citizens. It appears that these council persons are only interested in their own ego and not the needs of their citizens. This is definitely not the stately attitude that they should conduct themselves as representatives of the cities citizens. I have over 37 years working with municipalities in supervise positions. I have never in all these years seen such an attitude that was displayed by some of the council members at a recent meeting. At this meeting they approved the first reading of an ordinance limiting the methods and operations of a business. I personally question the legality of this type legislation that limits the operations of a commercial business.This type of legislation is in direct conflict with our nations free enterprise system and non discrimination that is provided by under our nation's constitution. Our families spend in an average of$500.00 a month at Costco in Santa Maria. We feel that the sales tax and personal property tax should stay in our community. The taxes generated by purchasing merchandise that fulfills our needs would go along way in providing funds for the cities operations and the operations of our quality Unified School District. Our youth should have the availability of a high quality education. Edwin L. McDonald From: "Cindy Osgood" <cindyo@fix.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 11:30 PM I would welcome a Costco in SLO. With the percentage of people that are driving to Santa Maria to shop at Costco why not keep the$$$$$ in our county. The only reason that the little guy needs to worry is because of the ridiculous prices that they charge. If the argument for them is they need to charge so much because of their expenses the the city landlords should lower their rent. I for one do not shop at Costco very often because I live alone and do not need the large quantities and I do not like to put up with the crowds. There is really no bargain good enough for me to stand in a long line. I do feel there is enough business to go around. I don't shop downtown very often either, but the times I have I disliked the college atmosphere.The clerks in the stores that were under 25 were not the best at customer service. And the parking. Another nightmare! I avoid downtown. The people in A.G. were against Wal-Mart and I think it is a wonderful asset to the community. At Christmas time the parking lots were full. I wonder how many of them protested the store. Cindy Osgood From: <TBIRD57962@aol.com> To: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmanc@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <dgarth@slochamber.org>, <dholley@downtownslo.com>, <letters@thetribunenews.com>, <trafferty@thegazettes.com>, <BettyStrole@aol.com> Date: Tue, Feb 6, 2001 12:05 AM Subject: Costco I just received this email from Alan Settle: "Today, I have received information that the Costco corporate officers have agreed to have a smaller store and work within the city ordinance with a store sales area of less than 100,000 square feet. Allen Settle" ..and our response is: "What good is a Costco with nothing in it? Something is not necessarily better than nothing." Michael &Shirley Read Los Osos CA From: "Geary-Ellen Williams" <gearyln@charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6, 2001 12:13 AM Subject: SAY YES TO COSTCO IN SLO Please do the community and residents a favor and say YES to Costco in San Luis. It makes no sense to allow North county to have the jobs and revenue that Costco would bring to the area. Many of us are tired of driving to Santa Maria and supporting that economy. Progress means Costco comes to San Luis and we can reap the benefits. Please don't be short sighted and cheat our economy out of the benefits that Costco can bring. Costco moving into San Luis won't mean the grocery stores will begin closing and the small increases in traffic are a justifiable exchange for the benefits. Don't let Costco go into North county, San Luis needs the economic boost! Thank you, Geary-Ellen Williams From: Sue Fiscalini <suefisk@thegrid.net> To: Allen Settle<asettle@slocity.org>, John Ewan <jewan@slocity.org>, Christine Mulholland <cmulholland@slocity.org>,Jan Howell Marx<jmarx@slocity.org>, Ken Schwartz <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6, 2001 2:18 AM Subject: Costco Dear Council Members, We want a Costco in San Luis Obispo, but we want the complete store not a mini version! We have 15,000 members here and we would like to shop in San Luis Obispo. We already have a smaller Mervyn's, Trader Joe's and Sears, for once can't we have the whole complete store! If you want to put limits on something, why don't you limit the students that Poly can enroll, we had another wild drunken Poly party in our family neighborhood Saturday night! San Luis Obispo doesn't have enough policemen to control the weekend parties. Maybe sales tax revenue could help? Lifetime residents, Sue and Albert Fiscalini From: John R Sanders<handtt@juno.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 5:16 PM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Ewan, Thank you for voting against the big-box ordinance. I hope you will continue to support what appears to be the majority opinion of the people in our area. Thanks,Jennine Sanders GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software,visit: http://dI.www.juno.com/get/tagj. From: <MurrialW@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 5:23 PM Subject: (no subject) John Ewan I believe it is time the people let their voices be heard. I believe there are enough low income people in this town that have no one to represent them. they need to be considered. They work here for you and other officials. Their income is below average. But we may say that is OK we say because they were meant to be poor. San Luis Obispo doesn't want to lower their high and mighty standards, at the cost of those that are having hard times, rent is high, wages are low utilities are high,the cost of transportation is expensive, but yet we, you expect the poor people to drive to another town and do their shopping. They will do that anyway,so will I, so you will loose the tax and the shopping that I and they will do. For example I am in an upper income bracket but, I will still look for a bargain. I bought a blood pressure monitor at a local drug store, it was $96.95, 1 went to Costco and found the very same brand an Identical one for $59.95. For some people that is almost a days wages. San Luis Obispo City is turning the other way, away from the needs of the common person,the poor community need a place like the big box stores, so they can make ends meet. You should be here for all people and for their interest, not because YOU PERSONALLY DON'T WONT A BIG BOX STORE IN YOUR TOWN. It is time the elected officials listen to those that elected them. And you should vote the way the majority of the people want you to vote. If you don't listen to the voice of the people, remember that, on the next election. You should be in-touch with the working people and feel their pains as they try to make ends meet. Perhaps if a Big Box store come the local store owners will get the message that they should not gouge the public. The rich college kids and the few wealthy people who try to run this town need to open their eyes and see that other people need bargains even though you may not need one. Please gent tough with your community the other people, the farm workers the domestic help the average wage earner, and the fixed income persons. I work with the poor everyday, and I thank that 75%of the county still looks for a bargain. Yes, I am for the Big Box Stores. Have a conscious,change your vote,vote for Costco? Rev. M. Walker From: <ISAH55@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 5:25 PM Subject: (no subject) Dear Vice Mayor Ewan, Please reconsider your vote against Costco. We would love to have a Costco in S.L.O. Your friends @ 970 Bougainvillea, S.L.O Mike, Vicky, Sarah &Amy Chavez From: "Betsy Bertrando"<betsyb@thegrid.net> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 3:04 PM Subject: COSTCO I hope the current makeup of the city council does not preclude their representing the needs of young families trying to remain in town. Please help keep families a part of our San Luis Obispo community. Allow families to shop reasonably, and walk to neighborhood schools, churches and jobs in town. I strongly support Costco and also existing R1 entry level housing returning to families. Save the environment and offer alternatives to long distance job, school and shopping commuting. Thank you, Betsy Bertrando, a resident for over 30 years. From: <jwebb@calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slonet.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 3:18 PM Subject: Box Stores Considerations Dear Mayor and Council Persons: We were a young family when we moved to San Luis Obispo in 1969. From the be- ginning we found it difficult to adhere to our tight budget. Purchasing bulk foods was almost impossible without traveling to Santa Maria; small appliances and tools were often purchased there as well. We found the SLO market to be extremely LIMITED and EXPENSIVE. Now,thirty-two years later, we are in our retirement years and little has changed. We must continue to endure the limited market and high prices. Try finding a humidifier locally;then try to find more than one brand under one roof. Similar examples are too many to list. We would like to spend more of our consumer dollars here at home. A Costco would provide us with that opportunity. Most certainly that opportunity is long overdue. We hope the council will look more favorably at ALL facets of the Costco proposal. Jim and Jean Webb, San Luis Obispo CC: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: John D Grady<jgrady@jdgfinancial.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 3:30 PM Subject: Costco & Marketplace Developments Dear Councilmen John Ewan and Ken Schwartz: Below is an e-mail I just sent to Mayor Settle and Councilwomen Mulholland and Marx. I hope the vote goes differently this Tuesday night! Dear Mayor Settle: I am concerned with the position that you and other council members have taken to prohibit Costco from opening a store in San Luis Obispo, as well as your opposition to the Marketplace development from moving forward. In both cases you are going against the recommendations of your own planning commission as well as the wishes of many(perhaps a majority) of our city's residents. The opinion being expressed by yourself and two other council members seems to be that the people of our city do not want a Costco or Target or that these stores would somehow destroy our city's "uniqueness" and hurt our current business owners. I am a Certified Financial Planner and business owner in San Luis Obispo. If I use your logic, I should ask you to pass an ordinance prohibiting any other financial planners from opening a business here, because it may detract from my business. Is that fair and right? Would you pass such an ordinance? Competition is part of what makes our society so successful and resilient and our economy the strongest in the world. To deny a Costco or Target or any store that meets the zoning and land use requirements is absurd and is simply not right. You cannot preserve the downtown businesses by denying equal access to our market by other businesses, be they large or small. The consumer has the right to decide where to spend his or her money and it is the consumer who will ultimately decide which businesses thrive and which do not. I hope you will listen to all of your constituents -all of whom you were elected to represent-and change your vote on these two vital issues. The smaller businesses will survive because they have something unique to offer that the Costco's or Targets of the world cannot offer. Similarly, Costco and Target offer something that other businesses cannot and do not want to offer. It is not right that we be forced to drive for one hour roundtrip (as I just had to do yesterday)to purchase items not even available here. The toll on our time and precious resources is so unnecessary. Let the citizens of this town decide where to spend their own money. And don't forget the added business our smaller business owners will do with the increased number of shoppers who will come to our community when we offer them more shopping choices. Of course,the tax revenues and jobs will also dramatically increase. I urge you to reverse your vote on these issues at Tuesday night's city council meeting. Regards, John Grady, CFP Business Owner Husband and father Resident of SLO City CC: <kschwartz@slocity.org> From: "hiltongee" <hiltongee@msn.com> To: "Moyor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Manx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Christine Mullholland" <cmulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 1:01 PM Subject: subj: Costco Mayor Settle and Council... We have great difficulty in understanding the statement that"a persuasive majority" in the community do not want Cosco... Most all persons I have talked with in the communitys of Los Osos and Morro Bay desire a Cosco here and in fact would use it more if closer than Santa Maria. Contrary to the opinion that Cosco would hurt the down town shopping is in error... In fact if anything it would probably help the area's business. Some of us are getting older and and would appreciate a shorter drive... Thanks Ben Graef 2651 Rodman Drive Los Osos, Ca 93402 805 534 1911 rrrrrrrrrrxerrxrrxxrrrxrrxrxxxrxxrrxxrrrrxrrxxxrrxx+exrxrrrrrrrrrxrxrxrrrrxrrrrrrrrrrrrxrxrrrxxx From: <DunstanW®aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 1:28 PM Subject: costco Dear Council man. Hope that you will put your efforts behind the Support for Costco. In the past ten years we have averaged a trip to Santa Maria every 4 to 5 weeks, and we usually pay$10.00 in sales tax each visit.Then there is the extra miles and gas that are required to go there.Thank you. W. Dunstan From: "sol stein° <solw6r@about.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 1:40 PM Subject: Costco Yeah We believe Costco generates revenue the city needs. We will shop Costco&continue to do so. Sign up for a free About Email account at http://About.com CC: <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: <SGay9639@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 1:41 PM Subject: Costco Dear Councilman Ewan: We are part of the silent majority, but have decided to break our silence because of the Costco issue. We appreciate your position on the ordinance limiting floor space to nontaxable goods. The Froom Ranch has been designated for large shopping stores. The site is not close to the downtown shopping area and is in an unobtrusive part of the city. How unfair to bow to the demands of the union. We have been CostCo shoppers since the store first opened in Santa Maria. We tend to go there about once a month. Our grocery shopping in SLO has not decreased; I still shop at Von's and Scolari's once a week. We like CostCo because they have high-quality merchandise, unlike K-Mart or Walmart. That in itself is an asset to San Luis Obispo. Personally, we would not like to see either of the last two mentioned stores locate here. We rarely shop at those two stores unless we need something generic. We have lived in San Luis Obispo for 28 years. When we first moved here, we had good shopping downtown, i.e., Sears, Penneys, Western Auto and Rileys. Even the Madonna shopping center had 2 large stores.Then when the Central Coast Mall was being considered,the developer, Mr. Bird, indicated that the center needed two large anchor stores. But our all-knowing city council at that time decided they knew better and opted for a hotel. The failure of that decision is certainly evident. Thank goodness for Gottschalks.We hope that the city council will not again make such an irresponsible mistake. Our county certainly needs the sales tax revenue and the influx of additional shoppers. Arroyo Grande and Paso Robles passed laws limiting space to nontaxable items because they already had K-Marts and a Walmart.What is the point in having a CostCo if they are not permitted to sell nontaxable items? That is a big part of their business. Their meats and bakery are absolutely topnotch. I am not sure San Luis even has a meat market anymore and there are certainly very few bakeries. We have NEVER been to CostCo when it was not busy, and we always see people from SLO while we are shopping. Thank you for continuing to vote as you have. There is nothing we'd like . more than to shop locally at CostCo. Thank you so much for your consideration. Larry and Shirley Gay From: "Marion Brass" <marionb@onemain.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 2:01 PM Subject: Costco Councilman Ewan: I am a native of San Luis Obispo and a registered voter and I am urging you to vote in favor of Costco and the San Luis Market Place. If these two are voted down you will never get another one of my votes. Marion Brass From: Susan Jones <sjones@midlandpacific.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:54 AM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Ewan, Please reconsider your vote in favor of the ordinance restricting the amount of floor space devoted to groceries that would prevent Costco from locating in SLO. Think of the future economic health of your town-you can't depend on tourism alone. Sincerely, Susan Jones From: <Leilabob@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:57 AM Subject: Yes on Costco To Mayor Allen Settle and fellow City Council members; We feel that your ordinance limiting food selling space in retail establishments is a direct attempt to shut Costco out of S.L.O. There is a place for such big box stores, and we feel Mr. Madonna's Froom Ranch is an ideal place for such a store. We have a wonderful and unique downtown area, and such a project is not in any way going to have any impact on our quality of life in S.L.O. City or County. Mr. Madonna has given so much to our community. He is not out to destroy our city, he loves our town, has been a lifetime resident of this wonderful city, and has had a huge impact on its growth and development. He is an honorable man who will see to it that this project will not be an eyesore, his improvements will aid traffic problems in the area, and this business will add to the tax dollars that stay in our city. It is unrealistic to think that we can keep San Luis Obispo in a no-growth mode, let growth take place where it should, and let Mr. Madonna proceed with his plans to locate a Costco on his property. Leila and Robert Humphrey From: <Shaktiros@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 12:32 PM Subject: COSTCO I am unable to attend the Council meeting on Tuesday. I have a CCNHA annual meeting to attend that evening. I want to urge to allow Cosco to build in San Luis- It will broaden the tax base and help the residents of this county to live better and with more money. Thank you for your consideration. Rosemary Hathaway Los Oso- Homeowner since 1980. From: "Frank" <frankavila@mindspring.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 12:35 PM Subject: Yes on Costco Hello, I have strong concern that this whole Costco issue is getting a bad rap. First, I was born and raised in SLO and left to seek employment in the late 1970s due to limited technical job opportunities in SLO at that point in time. Many of my family members have stayed in SLO for the duration and actually my ancestors were part of the founding members of this area. So we have seen the entire growth cycle of the city. I have now come back to live in SLO and basically plan on retiring here, since I have been able to find a great job in a technology that was not in SLO in the past. During my time away from SLO I lived in the Bay area in 4 different cities. The last 2 being around the same size and small town feeling as SLO- Pleasanton and Danville. Both of these cities had Costcos and various Grocery stores. In each city both Costco and the Grocery stores flourished and there were additional grocery stores going in when I left. Yes,there was growth within the cities but as in SLO they city council stressed controlled growth. What people are missing here is that Costco and grocery stores serve different distinct needs for individuals. People do their weekly and day to day shopping at local grocery stores, they also use grocery stores for there specialty items. Costco is used for bulk purchases and other items not found at a grocery store. Also Costco is not for everyone due to the requirement to purchase and store items in large quantities. Hopefully we all know the magnitude of income the county is losing to the Costco in Santa Maria.The estimates I have seen are around$500,000 a year. Couldn't we use that money here? In addition I would have to debate the loss of jobs, due to the statement that we would lose grocery stores due to loss of customers. I would say there would be an increase in jobs due to Costco. In closing I would like to see Costco here to provide some healthy competition to the local stores to drive down prices.We toke a pay cut to come here and it appears we are paying Bay Areas prices for a lot of things including hardware and grocery items. Not to even talk about if you want to buy a homer in SLO proper. Thanks Frank Avila From: <Janieinslo®aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:48 AM Subject: (no subject) Dear Mayor Settle: I am writing you conceming the decision concerning having a Costco in our area. As a longtime resident and practicing physician in the city of San Luis Obispo, I wanted to express my support for the new Costco in San Luis Obispo. 1 hope that the City Council will reconsider its decision regarding the ordinance which limits food sales in the new Costco. I don't believe Costco food sales will negatively impact any of our existing local business; the stores that directly compete with such sales are not local business,for example, Foods For Less, Vons, Ralphs, and Albertsons. I personally believe that the new Costco would be a valuable asset to our community. Sincerely yours, Janet Flaton, M.D. San Luis Obispo From: "VanRomer, Kathleen" <Kathleen.VanRomer@ mobilnet.gte.com> To: "'asettle@slocity.org"' <asettle@slocity.org>, "'jewan@slocity.org"' <jewan@slocity.org>, "'jmarx@slocity.org"'<jmarx@slocity.org>, "'kschwartz@slocity.org"' <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "'cmulholland@slocity.org"' <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:42 AM Subject: San Luis Obispo I am writing this e-mail to stress my support for a costco here in slo. It amazes me that you would all rather have the residents driving to Santa Maria, burning fuel polluting the air. Please lets have a costco here. Thank YouHH From: "Michael Samloff" <msamloff@earthlink.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 11:47 AM Subject: COSTCO Sir: I should like to express my enthusiastic support for allowing COSTCO in San Luis Obispo. It is good for the city and it is good for the people. It will reduce traffic on 101 through SLO, reduce gasoline consumption and air pollution, save people money, and increase the SLO tax base, providing needed funding for our schools. Of course, care must be given to ensuring that the required infrastructure is adequate, for example, roads and parking, and this is your job. However, I would suggest that it is not the role of local government to assume a narrow protectionist stance for certain types of businesses.This is bad public policy and ultimately harms everyone. In my humble opinion,there is no cogent reason for not allowing COSTCO do devote whatever space the company deems fit to merchandise food or whatever other line or product that they sell. I would urge your vote on February 6 negate the ordinance that would install such a limitation into law. Thank you for the opportunity to share my view. I. Michael Samloff, MD From: Don and Virginia Coats <dcoats@polymail.cpunix.calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:19 AM Subject: Costco Mayor Settle and members of the San Luis Obispo City Council; I am one on the fortunate few who came to San Luis Obispo in 1947 to enroll as a student at Cal Poly and has never left our beautiful community. During the intervening years I have received several degrees from Cal Poly, worked as a manager in the construction business for 12 years in San Luis Obispo, served as the president of a San Luis Obispo Service Club, a member of various Cal Poly Booster Organizations and a 25 year member of the Cal Poly Administration. I have been retired as a Cal Poly Professor Emeritus since September 1988. As can be seen by my record of achievement since coming to San Luis Obispo as a World War II veteran, I have no vested interested in the growth of our City or in the problems faced by our merchants. Whether or not we have a Big Box Store (Costco) will not directly affect me or my family, but having the City Council establish rules that establish the merchandising mix of a retail outlet is contrary of our American Free Enterprise System. I urge the Council to reconsider its previous action on the ordinance to establish the percentage mix allotted by a retail business and veto their previous action. Sincerely, Donald M. Coats, 1751 Sydney Street, SLO 93401 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @slocity.org> From: Nta Weschler<nitawesc @earth link.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:20 AM Subject: Yes on Costco! John Ewan, I would much prefer to shop in San Luis Obispo rather than Santa Maria. I see no compelling reason for the City Council to deny Costco a building permit. Please reconsider. Nita Weschler From: <Cdory@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:25 AM Subject: Proposed Ordinance Mayor Settle and Councilmembers: The Planning Commission recommended to you,the SLO City Council,that you NOT adopt any ordinance limiting warehouse store floor area devoted to nontaxable items. They gave valid reasons for their decision. The SLO Chamber of Commerce has publicly supported the Planning Commissions recommendations. The ordinance is inconsistent with the General Plan of SLO. San Luis Obispo residents have presented substantial public testimony through meetings, talk shows and letters to the editor in support of the free enterprise system. I have read both Councilman Schwartz and Mayor Settles TRIBUNE articles on BIG BOX STORES. My response is: I live here. I vote here. I have been a resident of SLO for over thirty years. I have joined and volunteered, raised a family and owned a business. I have watched our downtown change, grow, and develop into the charming area that it is today...a pleasure for citizens and visitors alike. It will take more than the addition of large stores on the Froom Ranch property to change our downtown character into a Fresno or a Santa Maria. I feel the Council has a duty to carefully consider the general plan, the planning commission recommendations,the chamber of commerce advice and the wishes of the majority of our citizens. Please reconsider your decision on Tuesday night. Thank You. Katherine (Kit) Long 657 Rancho Drive 543-0969 From: "Nancy Hatcher" <nhatcher@earth[in k.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:27 AM Subject: Costco Please vote the" people's " intentions for a Costco rather than your own personal beliefs. You represent all the people not just special interest groups. How elitist of you to turn down tax dollars that SLO county so desperately needs. YES ON COSTCO. N Hatcher From: <Cdory@1aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:57 AM Subject: Proposed Ordinance Dear Sirs: I take exception with the actions of the City Council and the proposed ordinance limiting floor space for the sale of nontaxable goods. It appears that this action was a response to support a moderately small group of persons, a union of workers in grocery stores. It seems that the union should conduct their own business in the form of soliciting support from the workers in said stores. When does a city council do the bidding of organized labor? The free enterprise system should support itself, not be carried along by a narrow focused effort to support a small group in deference to the views of the community as a whole. Please reconsider your action! Sincerely, John Long San Luis Obispo From: <KSmith1120@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:03 AM Subject: Costco yes I am a 23 year San Luis Obispo county resident. I would love to see a costco available in San Luis Obispo. I am unable to attend the Feb 6th meeting but wanted to let you know that Mayor Settle does not speak for me or for the majority of my friends. Sincerely, a long time Costco shopper. Karin Smith CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwarts@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: Jim Keese <jkeese@calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:07 AM Subject: Costco Mayor Settle and Councilmembers, I support the city law limiting big box stores size and scope of business. I think it is okay that a city can decide for itself what kind of economic base it wants. Also, if we want a strong downtown (and there aren't many left in this country) it is okay to limit development on the fringes.We can't have it all. If we want to perserve our quality of life, we must decide carefully what kind of growth we want. Sincerely, Jennifer O'Brien From: "Jerry and Donna" <We-TheBrowns@tcsn.net> To: <jewan @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:08 AM Subject: COSTCO Our family and our friends (we know because we see them there) go to COSTCO in Santa Maria and while we are there we do other shopping in that town. We live in Paso Robles and Atascadero go through San Luis Obispo and don't shop there. If COSTCO was in San Luis Obispo we of course would do shopping there other than Costco, we would eat there, get gas there, maybe take in a show there. SLO would be getting a lot of the north counties money. If COSTCO does not go in at SLO , eventually it would go to Atascadero or Paso Robles,then all that money from SLO would be coming up over the grade. It makes sense, don't you think ,to bring people and their monty to SLO . Please vote yes on COSTCO. Jerry and Donna Brown From: "bobbie howder" <bghrnccrn@thegrid.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:12 AM Subject: Costco To the Mayor and the Council - Please forgive me for shouting, but I want my voice to be heard this time! I WANT A COSTCO IN SAN LUIS OBISPO!!! I moved here almost 2 years ago from a town just slightly bigger than SLO. When the Costco was built there, the same hue and cry went up about local stores losing business, etc, etc. It just plain didn't happen. My neighbour worked for a local SaveMart- he said that after the initial novelty wore off, business at his store returned to normal. I do NOT like the idea of having to drive 45 minutes, fighting traffic and sometimes weather,to stock up on essentials. I am also dismayed at the thought of my tax dollars going to another county, rather than the one I live in. And last but not least, Ms. Mulholland, your comments about"if you don't like it, you can move"were rude, insulting and patronizing. Is that any way to speak to the people you were elected to represent? Be assured I,for one, will NOT be voting for you should you ever choose to run for re-election. Thank you all for your time and attention. Sincerely... Bobbie Howder R.N., CCRN Los Osos From: "DHullinSLO" <DHullinSLO®msn.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:21 AM Subject: Costco-Please Read! Most Honorable Mayor, Honored Councilmen and Honored Councilwomen, After reading the numerous letters to the editor, listening to news programs and talk-show programs, I am compelled to write this letter, even though I fear it may be an effort in futility. I don't know if you will even read this letter, I hope you will. The Froom Ranch is a perfect location for regional shopping opportunities. Christine, of course a lot of letter writers in favor of Costco are not from the city. That is because many county residents in the unincorporated areas around SLO such as Los Osos, Country Club and Edna Valley shop and work in SLO. Although these people cannot cast a vote in SLO, they are directly impacted by the political decisions made by the city council. It is arrogant to ignore the desires of individuals not residing within the city limits. The Froom Ranch was zoned for Regional Shopping Opportunities. Don't put up obstructions to providing these opportunities for county residents. San Luis Obispo is centrally located within the county, which makes it an ideal location for regional shopping opportunities. The County Planning Commission voted unanimously against this ordinance, because, as the Tribune stated, it was an obvious union protectionism ploy. Today's grocery stores have ventured into many other businesses, taking over what were local mom and pop businesses. That is progress and the free market economy. Is it fair to allow grocery stores to have 25% of their square footage devoted to enterprises such as banking,flower mart, books, magazines,wrapping paper and gift cards, dairy, fish market, butcher shop, deli, bakery, photo shop, Laundromat and pharmacy, and limit other businesses from competing with groceries? Of course not! Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande passed a similar ordinance after Wal-Mart arrived in their towns,which makes it a moot issue. The Board of Supervisors passed the ordinance because it wins them political brownie points and they believe Big Box stores belong in incorporated areas. However, the BOS are mandated to look at the big picture and do what is right for the county at large. If the majority of the city council wants to stop progress and growth, I invite you to move to another state where cities are not growing at all. You belong in a part of the country where no new business wants to locate and all the children leave town as soon as they can. We,the silent majority, accept progress and change, and want to see regional shopping opportunities, including CostCo at the Froom Ranch. Diane Hull Former County Planning Commissioner, 4th District CC: <madonna@fox.net> From: <WDLMac1 @aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmaarx@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:25 AM Subject: Please do Decide how we shop,,,,,this should be a free country Please do NOT Decide how we shop,,,,,this should be a free country and we should be able to shop at any store we want. I am a slow growth person BUT the area along Los OSos Vally Road is lost as there aree going to be stores allalong there so there souuld be no limit on what kind of store.... David Lees SLO From: "Celina U. Penalba" <cpenalba@slonet.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:27 AM Subject: Support to Costco Dear Mr. Ewan: This in support to the establishment of Costco in San Luis Obispo. I believe the benefits surpass the inconveniences discussed previously. I feel Costco is not a true competition to the supermarkets, since Costco carries only a limited number of groceries preferred by the members who pay a membership fee to shop at Costco. Please reconsider. Celina U. Penalba Celina U. Penalba, cpenalba@slonet.org 570 Peach St.#10,San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 From: <gmead@calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:31 AM Subject: Costco John Please re think your decision to per sue an ordinance that would reduce the size of the grocery department of the Costco store so much that the retailer will bow out of this agreement completely. Costco is much needed in our city. It is much needed for many reason including a competitive market place for groceries.This is still a middle class community, that would benefit form the competition. It will not put anyone out of business, it will only increase their effort to be competitive. Competition is a what has made America great. Listen to the average citizen, listen to the locals. Do not listen only to the newcomers the the community that want all doors of the city tightly closed .Thank you George Mead From: "Suzanne Henderson" <gosloc@thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:39 AM Subject: COSTCO My husband and I both support bringing COSTCO to San Luis Obispo. It makes good fiscal and business sense. Please reconsider your position on this issue. Best Regards, John and Suzanne Henderson CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland®slocity.org> From: "Ifarrer"<Ifarrer®netzero.net> To: <asettlefslocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:41 AM Subject: Costco I support Costco. Please don'ttake away my right to choose where I will or will not shop. Darell Farrer 6755 Avila Valley Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 From: Ray Miklas <rmiklas@bigfoot.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:55 AM Subject: COSTCO vote Honorable Lady and Gentlemen, Please cast your vote to approve the COSTCO project. Thank you. Ray and Sandy Miklas 2460 Leona Ave., SLO From: <ModyBrady@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:56 AM Subject: Costco Shop SLO. It will bring in necessary tax funding that this city should not snub it's nose at. I have not seen evidence in Santa Maria of grocery closures of their big box grocery stores. Since our big box grocery stores will continue to do just fine with or without Costco it should not be a factor in your decision.Tell me the names of the so called Mom & Pop grocery stores and I will remind you of their success against the other big box grocery stores that are already here, ie:Scolari's. Please be realistic and not emotional in your decision on this issue. I tend to agree with the editorial in the Trib that went something like" if you don't like it move to Harmony" :) And yes, I,too am a transplant and love this area. I don't think big box stores have a place near our"downtown"that is so quaint. Thank you for listening to another"majority" person who voted in the last election. mel From: 13pbuster" <pbuster@fix.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:13 AM Subject: Yes on Costco Dear John Ewan, We would love to see Costco in San Luis Obispo!!!!! Great jobs provided, great shopping with incredible savings, and our tax dollars would stay in town!!!! We say a big YES ON COSTCO!!! Lynn and Paul Kenney, Paso Robles From: "Martin T. Lang" <mlang@calpoly.edu> To: Mayor Allen Settle <asettle@slocity.org>,John Ewan <jewan@slocity.org>,Jan Howell Marx<jmarx@slocity.org>, Ken Schwarz<kschwartz@slocity.org>, Christine Mulholland <cm ulhol land @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:19 AM Subject: COSTCO and the character of SLO To the members of the City Council, The issue of allowing another"big box" store such as COSTCO into SLO has generated a lot of rhetoric lately and much of it seems to be based on emotion. The character of SLO is defined by its residential neighborhoods surrounded by mountain peaks, its quaint downtown shopping area adjacent to mission plaza, its unique motels (Apple Farm Inn, Madonna Inn, etc.), and Cal Poly with its world-class Performing Arts Center. The industrial and shopping zones south of town are not SLO to me. Since the city has allowed and even encouraged industrial zones with its many large box buildings, and since we have a huge auto park adjacent to Los Osos Valley Road by Hwy 101, and since we have zoned the south-west side of Los Osos Valley Road to be commercial, I see no harm at all in allowing a COSTCO to be added to that area. I live in SLO and have made many a trip to Santa Maria to shop at both COSTCO and Home Depot because one can have more selections at such stores and there are definitely cost savings. So.I am NOT opposed to having such stores here in this area, as long as they are confined to the southern commercial/industrial zones of the city. Martin Lang rrr+raaaraaaaaaa+araaaaraaaaaaaaaaaarwaw Martin T. Lang Professor Emeritus, Mathematics Department California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 e-mail: mlang@calpoly.edu Phone: (805) 544-6484 •rrrrrrrrrrrrrrwrrrrrrrxwwwrrrrarrwwaaa From: "Van Romer, Kathleen" <Kathleen.Van Romer@ mobilnet.gte.com> To: "'asettle@slocity.org"' <asettle@slocity.org>, "'jewan@slocity.org"'<jewan@slocity.org>, "'jmarx@slocity.org"' <jmarx@slocity.org>, "'kschwartz@slocity.org"' <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "'cmulholland@slocity.org'" <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:50 AM May this e-mail serve as full support for a costco here in San Luis Obispo!!!!!!! I cant beleive you would rather have residents burn fuel, and pollute the air a little more by driving to Sant Maria!! Thanks for listening. From: <Wilbneben@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 10:50 AM Subject: In favor of COSTCO I am a COSTCO member and would very much like to shop here in our city. I hope that the limitation on no-ntaxable item a store can display is re-visited. Wilbur Neben 1359 Avalon St. SLO, 93405 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: <edbettymcd@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: 2/5/01 11:19PM Subject: Consideration of increase in revenue Dear Mayor&Council Persons We are old residents and owners of property for over 27 years. We have seen a transformation of the downtown stores now catering to the youth especially college students. We do not see many of these stores that have merchandise for the middle age families and elderly citizens. To obtain this type of merchandise we have to go to other city s in the county and Saint Maria. The City Council has pushed back the priority of a new or updated senior citizen complex with adequate parking. It is a disgrace to the citizens of the City of San Luis Obispo that the City has not provided an adequate Seniors facility. The Cities of Morro Bay,the South County and the City of Santa Maria have beautiful and flexible facilities that provide for it's senior citizens needs. We keep hearing that the city doesn't have the funds to provide a comparable facility to fill the needs of their citizens. The Unified Coastal School district are presently having a large deficit of funds for its operations.They do not have adequate funds to provide our youth the quality education that they have previously received. We the citizens of San Luis Obispo have received negative remarks from some of the Council persons that if we do not like the actions of the city council that we can move to another area. This type of attitude displayed by some members of the city council indicate that they are not interested in the needs of its citizens. It appears that these council persons are only interested in their own ego and not the needs of their citizens. This is definitely not the stately attitude that they should conduct themselves as representatives of the cities citizens. I have over 37 years working with municipalities in supervise positions. I have never in all these years seen such an attitude that was displayed by some of the council members at a recent meeting. At this meeting they approved the first reading of an ordinance limiting the methods and operations of a business. I personally question the legality of this type legislation that limits the operations of a commercial business.This type of legislation is in direct conflict with our nations free enterprise system and non discrimination that is provided by under our nation's constitution. Our families spend in an average of$500.00 a month at Costco in Santa Maria. We feel that the sales tax and personal property tax should stay in our community. The taxes generated by purchasing merchandise that fulfills our needs would go along way in providing funds for the cities operations and the operations of our quality Unified School District. Our youth should have the availability of a high quality education. Edwin L. McDonald From: "SLOLODATO" <SLOLODATO@email.msn.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Fri,Jan 26, 2001 12:13 PM Subject: "Big Box"Ordinance Please reconsider your stand on the "Big Box" ordinance if it comes back up for vote. We are residents and business owners in the City of San Luis Obispo and find this ordinance to be very anti-competitive and scary. Smart growth is what we need in this town to not be left behind. We are also one of the thousands of Costco shoppers driving to Santa Maria each month. We would love a Costco at Froom Ranch! Not just for our convenience, but to keep much needed sales tax revenue in our City/County(we spend over$12,000 annually in Santa Maria) as well as cut down on traffic and pollution. I could go on but I know you have heard it all. think we speak for a majority based on the people we've spoken to. Thank you for your careful consideration! CC: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> woe • From: <TERIBETH@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 23, 2001 1:51 AM Subject: Costco-of course! Mayor Settle, Vice-Mayor John Ewan, Councilmembers Christine Mulholland, Jan Howell Marx adn Ken Schwartz. My name is Theresa Shipsey and I am a native of the city of San Luis Obispo, as is my father and was my grandfather before him. My great grandfather was mayor of this wonderful city at the turn of the century. I have history here and appreciate the merits of living here more than most because of that. I don't want to see the quality of life here ruined but I also see that there has to be a balance between what is allowed and what is not allowed in the growth and direction of how the future of this small valley will be shaped. I am writing to you, as I am sure you have receive numerous letters regarding the council's 3 to 2 vote to limit the floor space allowed for non-taxable (food) items in "box office stores". I wasn't going to write until reading this mornings Tribune (January 22,2001) . Even I, someone who does not normally get involved in politics, see that the responses against the decisi on far outnumber the ones in favor. I also know that you have heard all the reasons people support allowing Costco to build here and the reasons given to not allow it. I would like to share my feelings. People have complained that Costco will ruin the local markets, the mom & pops in this community. The only"mom & pop" grocery store I could find in San Luis Obispo is located on Laurel Lane and serves a people who will still shop there regardless of Costco. The other markets, Vons, a division of Safeway Stores,Albertsons, Scolaris and now Ralphs are all chain stores whose roots with the exception of Scolari's beginnings years ago are not in this area, not even on the Central Coast. Even Smart& Final is not local. I still get a lot of my bulk purchases from Smart& Final because some of their prices are actually better than Costco. Pharmacies are the same. Personally my main shopping at Costco is for vitamins. What do we have here? Rite Aid, Sav-on, Longs. All major chains. There are a couple of smaller pharmacies scattered around the county. Most of these still provide home delivery and will still keep their basic clientel. Major appliances, again, aside from Idlers what do we have? If I were in the market for an appliance I would be more apt to purchase locally because of service and I know others feel the same as I do. Having a Costco in our community would not necessarily open the door for other Box type stores. a• a It would give opportunity for the chain markets and pharmacies to be more competetive in prices and even service, which frankly sometimes is pretty bad. a• a It would open up numerous employment opportunities for people to actually make a living wage since Costco pays considerably higher than minimum wage. in a It would keep more spendable monies within our community, both from the added jobs, but also from the added time we who currently drive to Santa Maria would save and most probably spend in support of local retailers. I r� don't make much money but when I do go to Santa Maria I usually include at least one or two other stops while there. That is money, tax money that would have stayed here. The hour plus commute time is time I don't have to spend here. A- 0 Costco could even ensure the success of the new businesses opening in the Marketplace and to downtown businesses because it would draw people from throughout the county who might just spend some time and money here in town. The commute time brings me to the complaint about added traffic. It is unavoidable that traffic will increase on LOVR. Along with the Home Depot already under construction there is housing and the expanded Marketplace center not to mention the expansion of Prado Road, the new athletic fields and even the Airport expansion. As Los Osos has grown, Cuesta College has grown and the community has grown,the road has not. To lay the blame on one store for all the increase in traffic is unfair. City planning has looked a long time at that area and still has come up short. With the new complex going in, and with the expansions and building on the east side of the freeway we need to address traffic. Saying Costco will increase it or make it worse is just an excuse. Looking to widen the LOVR overpass and expand LOVR to 6 lanes rather than 4 make sense, not just for traffic, but also for safety. It should be done regardless of Costco or not. The Prado Road exchange will take some of the pressure off but not for the Los Osos residents, Cuesta students and residents of that part of town. Why not allow Costco in but include partial cost of the bridge widening as part of the deal. Take advantage of the issue to the benefit of a larger community. Personally, I am tired of spending my time, money for gasoline,fighting the Freeway traffic, driving to Santa Maria to shop knowing my tax money will not benefit this community. Sure I could make the decision not to go to Costco and instead shop here in SLO spending more money on the items I purchase. I won't. For one reason, I along with many other people can't afford not to shop at Costco. Even with Costco local, I would still shop in the grocery stores. I use a lot of fruits and veggies and the quality at Costco is not as good as local stores carry. I would still coupon shop as I do now. With coupons there are lots of prices even Costco can't match. guess that what I am asking is that if it is not too late to reconsider and bring this to the table again. Could you re-think the issue and maybe vote to allow Costco without the restriction suggested. Please forget your personal agendas and look at the responses in the paper. Talk to people on the streets. I have been and by and far the majority I've spoken with agree with me. Even checkers in the grocery stores!! Use Costco as a means to make LOVR safer for all. It extends a lot further than Froom Ranch and HWY 101. I hope you will at least consider revisiting the issue. Listen to what those of us who normally don't speak up have to say. We can preserve the San Luis Obispo feeling and still look to the future if we all keep our minds open. Use our ingenuity to make it all work. We can do it. This is the community that first denied McDonald's golden arches. We got McDonalds and they don't have the arches anymore. Maybe we can find away to have Costco without the "big Box" label. Miracles do happen. Thank you for your attention. From: "Phil Wagner" <pwagner@slonet.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 11:34 PM Subject: Grocery ordinance John - I wanted to let you know I think you did what you could on the "Grocery Ordinance"vote. I think you and Ken were the only ones with "the eye on the ball". The rest of the Council members couldn't see the very issue they were voting on. This meeting was very informative for me in that I could see the blatant politicing from the drafting of the ordinance to the pre-vote discussion (much which appeared to be pre-scripted among some Council members and the City Attorney), to the actual vote. It has to take a lot of patience to do what you are doing. Thanks for all the work you are doing! Phil Wagner From: <JDCole1997@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 5:09 PM Subject: costco Hello, My wife and I just wanted to express our wish that you vote to allow Costco to be developed on the Froom Ranch. I know that my wife and I both go to Costco and Home Depot quite often to make large purchases. I would much rather see our sales tax dollars support San Luis Obispo, vs. Santa Maria. I am a third generation native of the City of San Luis Obispo, and I have never seen a development that I did not like. I know that with great planning we can make the Froom Ranch Development with Costco look great. Also, as far as this measure that is supported by the Food and Grocery workers union, competition is good for business. People will shop where they want to and with whom they want to do business. Thanks for your time. John & Darsie Cole 1242 Sumac Ct. San Luis Obispo, Ca. 93401 805-543-7321 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: "Bob & Kelene Cooper" <bkcooper@thegrid.net> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16,2001 5:30 PM Subject: Costco in SLO Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, I love Costco, my husband and I travel to Costco in Santa Maria monthly for their great meats, foods and other products. I am disabled with a spine injury and would benefit from having a Costco in San Luis Obispo. I'm sure by now you are enjoying the benefits of bringing other larger stores to our area. Costco would bring needed jobs and services we are sorely without. There is no need to hold San Luis Obispo County residents hostage by having to pay higher prices or the need to travel out of the county to seek competitive products and services. San Luis Obispo would also benefit from a new south bound off ramp onto Diliado for access to the new mall. It would cut down on the Los Osos Valley Road traffic as well as Madonna Road traffic. I realize that I am only one tax paying citizen, but I feel the more homes you build the larger our community grows, we need to bring other successful business to our town. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, K.Cooper cc:Jan Howell Marx Ken Schwartz John Ewan CC: "Councilmember C. Mulholland" <jewan@slocity.org> From: <GDC30A@aol.com> To: <asettle@slo.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16,2001 4:36 PM Subject: Costco Dear Council Members, As over 30 year residents of San Luis Obispo,we see no reason to enact any ordinance that would restrict a company such as Costco from coming to our city. It appears that the significant existing regulations have more than adequate capability of protecting the area from harmful development. As far as traffic is concerned, it appears that widening and improvements to Los Osos Valley Road will benefit the current traffic situation. We do shop at various Costco stores. Very truly yours, Glenn and Bernice Carlson 996 Vista Collados San Luis Obispo CA 93405 From: "Vickie Backman" <vbackman@charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16,2001 3:55 PM Subject: January 16 Mtg: Public Hearing Comments on Ordinance on Floor Space City Council members: I am a ten year resident of SLO and a 25 year resident of SLO County. My children were born here, and are in school here, or will be some day. I care about this town, its people, and its environment, and that is why I must comment on your proposed actions. I have talked with many of my neighbors, and they all shared my concern on this issue. The anti-Costco ordinance limiting types of merchandise that "warehouse" stores can sell should be rejected. I am amazed that the city council would consider such an anti-environmental and anti-resident proposal. The proposal is anti-environmental since it results in greatly increased auto emissions. Thousands of SLO city residents currently make monthly sojourns to COSTCO to buy food and other items at bargain prices. These people are driving their SUVs, large trucks, and vans 70 miles or more round trip, wasting their own precious time on the commute, and polluting every city they pass through. The proposal is anti-resident since it attempts to maintain an artificially high cost-of-living in SLO. Why can't we have reasonably priced shopping here? Do you really feel the need to protect the small,family run grocery stores in town such as Vons, Albertson's and Ralph's? Who are you kidding? COSTCO does not compete with small shops, and their extra large items and limited selection are not for everyday shopping. I have a baby, and diapers and wipes from COSTCO are saving us at least$20 every month. Most residents of SLO, including the students, are leaving town at least once a month to shop at Costco, K-Mart, Wal-Mart, or Target. Do you have any idea how much sales tax money you are throwing away? I do not believe it is the council's job to look over developer's shoulders and approve their lessees. Stores come and go over time. I have seen Korbs, Sears, Penney's, and Riley's all leave downtown, and seen Beno's (and many others)come and go at Madonna Mall. Products come and go too. Our downtown has done very well, and we can be proud of the mix of local and national stores we have. The Copeland project was a great success, and has given downtown a new lease on life. When the council tries to get involved we have terrible disasters, such as the Gottschalks/Embassy Suite travesty. The council needs to concern itself with the overall size and appearance of proposed developments, and consider their physical impacts on infrastructure, and get out of the marketing side of the stores. We do not live in a communist country, although some council actions seem to suggest it at times. Stop trying to legislate which stores belong here and what they can sell. Start working on the city greenbelt and infrastructure. Vickie Backman Poppy Lane San Luis Obispo From: <EMIFASHION @aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 3:58 PM Subject: Re. Costco We have been Costco shoppers at the Santa Maria location since it opened! (We even shop Costco in Washington State where we "summer"as Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands has one small market.) There are so many people who want and support this business now that all the locals and the chains have lost that business already. It isn't as if this is "new."The city and county are just giving our tax money to Santa Maria and Santa Barbara! Please support the building of this store in San Luis Obispo. Sincerely, Elizabeth and Pete Potter CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: "Edward Glembotski"<glembotski@charter.net> To: "Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "C mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "J Ewan"<jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 29,2001 6:49 PM Subject: Costco Decision We are very disappointed with the decision of the Council. We are senior citizen residents of the City of San Luis Obispo and as do many other SLO residents trek to Costco Santa Maria at least every other month making purchases in excess of$200. We would rather make these purchases at home thereby keeping the money within our city. If you are opposed to "big box" stores,why did you approve Home Depot? We do not understand why you let in Home Depot and not Costco. We hope you, our representatives, see the advantages to our city income and the benefit to its citizens. We strongly urge you to reverse your decision and permit a Costco store in our city. Sincerely, Judith Glembotski Edward Glembotski 2551 Lawton St. SLO From: Don Morris <dmmords@calpoly.edu> To: slo city<jmarx@slocity.org>, slo mayor<asettle@slocity.org>, slo city <kschwartz@slocity.org>, slo city<culholland@slocity.org>, slo counil <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 7:01 PM Subject: vote on Costco Dear Allen: We were colleagues for a long time at Cal Poly. I am concerned that another factor in the vote to stop the Costco was not considered by you and the rest of the city council. WILL YOUR VOTE EFFECT THE TAXES THAT WOULD GO TO THE LOCAL SCHOOLS? I AM NOT SURE HOW MUCH INCOME THIS WOULD GENERATE NOT ONLY TO THE CITY BUT ALSO THE COASTAL SCHOOL DISTRICT. AS YOU CONSIDER YOUR VOTE PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THE STREET REPAIRS AND OTHER IMPROVEMENTS THAT THE CITY CAN MAKE WITH THE TAXES BUT ALSO CONSIDER HOW IT WILL EFFECT THE CHILDREN'S EDUCATION. BEST REGARDS, DR. DON MORRIS From: <TBIRD57962@aol.com> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 29, 2001 8:33 PM Subject: Costco We are extremely disappointed with your narrow minded attitude regarding "Big Box Stores" in general and Costco specifically. Between Alan Settle's comments about not being concerned with the opinion of people not residing within the City and Christine Mulholland's invitation to shop elsewhere, I will be very careful not to spend any money anywhere within the City Limits of San Luis Obispo. Both my wife and I work within in City Limits of San Luis Obispo and we will pleased to continue to earn our money there, use your streets and resources and pollute your air with our vehicles, but we will not spend any of that money in YOUR CITY unless absolutely necessary.We will make it a point to use the city's streets, adding to the congestion you seem to fear, to get to the freeway to drive to Santa Maria, South County or North County without stopping even to buy gasoline. You talk a great deal about reducing pollution and conserving resources but yet you force consumers to go elsewhere to the stores they really want to shop at. We will recommend this course of action to everyone we know or meet that is opposed to the City Council's position. Michael and Shirley Read (23 year residents) 1234 Bayview Heights Dr Los Osos CA 93402 805-528-1553 From: "Jerry DeAngelis" <ggda@earthlin k.net> To: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan @slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 8:53 PM Subject: COSTCO AT FROOM G. G. DeAngelis, Ph.D. & Marsha R. DeAngelis 793-A Foothill Blvd, #131 San Luis Obispo, CA. 93405 January 29, 2001 Allen K. Settle Mayor San Luis Obispo, CA. Dear Mayor Settle: We are re-submitting our letter(revised 1/29/01) of January 13,2001 to you. Based upon your vote, it is obvious that you either did not read it, or ignored it. Both of these actions are unacceptable to us. As a politician, it seems that you may want to take a look at those with whom you align yourself.. Politicians who ignore the wishes or the electorate, are not politician for long. We support the Madonna Construction Company Froom Ranch Development Project. We specifically endorse the arrival of COSTCO in the aforementioned development. As citizens and taxpayers of San Luis Obispo, we demand the right to shop at a COSTCO here rather than at COSTCO in Santa Maria. The efforts of labor unions to stop the building of this retail space are nothing more than additional examples of anti-competitive bias so prevalent in this community. We feel the same about your recent vote supporting the union's position. The ordinance to prohibit large stores from devoting more than 5% of their space to groceries is short sighted, and not in the best interests of the majority of citizens of San Luis Obispo-whom you represent. This great country was built on competition, and competition is indeed one of the backbones of our capitalistic system. The ordinance, proposed by the union, is nothing more than an attempt to obviate that. If the union really had the best"interests of the people it represents in mind they need do nothing more than direct their members to provide better service at better prices than COSTCO. It they did that,there would be little reason to shop at a COSTCO, Santa Maria, or a COSTCO anywhere. We shall not shop locally for the items we buy at COSTCO. We will travel to Santa Maria, and shop there. No local store will benefit by that. If COSTCO were in town, we would shop there, and all local parties would benefit. Your responsibility, Mayor Settle, is to assure us of the best opportunities to live and prosper in San Luis Obispo. This is especially true in a community where many need as much assistance as possible to buy the things they need to assure themselves and their children a healthy and satisfying lifestyle. 0 Your responsibility is not, in our opinion, to assist labor unions in their efforts to thwart the development of a much needed resource in this community. It is not the City council's mandate to vote for what they think or want as individuals, as they allegedly represent us - the people. Perhaps those City Council members who are against "big box stores" locating in San Luis Obispo, might consider relocating to a place or places where there are not enough people to support such large enterprises. This would seem a much simpler solution that suggesting that all 65%+who support COSTCO move elsewhere. In closing, we reiterate our support for building a COSTCO on the Froom Ranch Development, and our opposition to the ordinance that prohibits large stores from selling groceries in competition with supermarkets, and which would prohibit large stores which devote more than 5% of their floor space to groceries in San Luis Obispo. Sincerely G. G. De Angelis, Ph.D. &Marsha R. De Angelis cc:A. Madonna CC: "MADONNA CONSTRUCTION COMPANY" <madonna@fix.net> From: "Sandi" <dreamer333 @charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 11:06 AM Subject: Proposed Ordinance Mayor Settle: I think the proposed ordinance limiting retail space for grocery items in a"big box" store is a mistake. It seems to me it's just a back-door attempt to keep Costco out of San Luis Obispo. We just shopped at Costco in Santa Maria yesterday, and will continue to do so as long as there isn't a closer Costco store.What will the land at Froom Ranch be used for, if not Costco? Some other big box store, like Home Depot or Office Depot? We have enough of those types of stores, especially considering what is being built/planned presently. If Paso Robles builds a Costco, we will still drive to Santa Barbara County, as it is closer and we don't have to drive Cuesta Grade. I've read that$700,000 in tax revenues from San Luis Obispo County now goes to Santa Barbara County.With the PG&E situation right now, wouldn't it be better that San Luis Obispo County would receive those tax dollars? Please rethink your position on the proposed ordinance. We ALL would love to keep all the open space in the county, but you know as well as I do that the landowners can make more revenue by building shopping centers than by farming or just holding on to vacant land. All we can decide is what TYPE of shopping would benefit the city,the county and the citizens. Sincerely, S.E. King CC: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From:, <bugme@thegdd.neb To: - <asettle®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan0slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Jan 27, 2001 12:48 PM Subject: Your vote Dear Mr. Settle, In your article of January 23rd, you spoke about neighborhood markets being affected by the arrival of Costco in our community. Aren't you aware of how long the Costco store in Santa Maria has been open? If Costco was such a major factor for any of the grocery stores, SLO Fresh wouldn't be doing business on Laurel Lane. As usual, you are distorting the facts by suggesting that Scolari's would be affected by Costco. Where was your concern for Scolari's when Ralph's was given the green light on their huge supermarket? Where was your concern for Albertson's,just a few blocks away from Ralph's? No senior citizen living in the old town area is going to choose Costco over Scolari's unless they crave mayonnaise in a large container. You will affect people like my mother who is 85 years old and drives to Costco to buy her eyedrops for dry eyes. The very same product is sold at Long's Drug Store, about a block from her home. Why does she go to Costco? Because she can buy two bottles for the price of one at Long's. For the retirees in this community, purchasing food is not their focus at Costco but paper products, over the counter drugs, vitamins,toothpaste, books, tapes and then food. Not only are their tax dollars being spent out of our county,they will drive the distance to Santa Maria to save what retirement dollars they have. Where is your sensitivity to their issues? Your article also talks about the traffic on Los Osos Valley Road. This traffic is caused by commuters to and from Los Osos and the ever increasing population of the Laguna area. There was no concern when you gave your blessing to the DuVaul development. Those of us who live in the Lakewood Tract look forward to the traffic light at Garcia. None of these problems have anything to do with the Froom Ranch project. I'll gladly take four lanes of traffic on this portion of Los Osos Valley Road over the current situation. Those who intend to shop at Costco will arrive by freeway rather than Los Osos Valley Road. This exit is no worse than the Stowell Exit in Santa Maria and to suggest that traffic is an issue for residents of the Laguna area is really not factual. Unless you have not been paying close attention,the majority of letter writers to The Tribune are in favor of a Costco. The numbers in favor are at least 7 over.1 in opposition. This does not include the favorable comments Councilman Schwartz has received, out of 192, only 30 were against Costco. Many may be opposed to growth, many more are in favor of this type of growth. It is time for the RESIDENTS to have a higher priority than the tourists and the student population. The downtown couldn't possibly be affected by a Costco since it caters to the student and tourist population. It's a great place to buy a gift, maybe some cool surf stuff and some sports equipment. All the relatives love to shop here because it is different, I love it myself otherwise we wouldn't have lived here for 29 years and raised a family, but the downtown now is different than 29 years ago. I hope you re-examine your position on this ordinance. The residents only want an equal opportunity to shop, not a Wal-Mart, not a Super KMart, not even a Target which would affect local merchants. Listen v to your own staff,the Planning Commission, the members of the Chamber of Commerce, members of the community who have businesses here. The City of San Luis Obispo is about the RESIDENTS and their needs, not about the ideals of occasional visitors and students who think they've gone to heaven just by being fortunate enough to live here temporarily. Sincerely, Kathryn Beetle San Luis Obispo From: Mike Wagoner<MWagoner@TRUELINK.com> To: "'asettle@slocity.org"' <asettle@slocity.org>, "'jewan@slocity.org"' <jewan@slocity.org>, "'jmarx@slocity.org"' <jmarx@slocity.org>, "'kschwartz@slocity.org"' <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "'cmulholland@slocity.org'" <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 9:54 AM Subject: Allow Costco - City Council Members, I have lived in San Luis Obispo for almost 8 years now. I could never understand why there were no big box stores in town. Arguments that I have heard are that it takes away business from the small stores in town. Most people I know would rather travel 30 minutes when they want to buy from Costco. Putting a store in town would allow San Luis Obispo to collect the taxes from the sales and would also create more jobs. Please reconsider your vote that disallows big box stores. Thank you for your time, Michael Wagoner From: "Tisha" <tisha@midstatefair.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 9:54 AM Subject: costco- I would like to take a short minute of your time to give you my opinion on the Costco project. (I am a resident of San Luis Obispo.) I understand the concern regarding big-box stores taking over the City of San Luis, part of our cities charm is the wonderful downtown area with its cute little shops, but being a mother and having to shop with a little baby is very frustrating. There is no one place to go and find all the items you need, not to mention that all our cute little boutiques are not the most cost effective places to shop. I would love to be able to afford SLO prices and have the ability to go seven different places for one days list of errands. So unfortunately if you do not over turn the Costco decision I will continue to travel to Arroyo Grande's Wal-Mart or Santa Maria's Costco or Atascadero's K-Mart. Thank you for your time. Tisha Ken & Payton Tucker San Luis Obispo, California From: <WERPARKER®aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 11:14 AM Subject: Costco Another vote in favor of Costco would be appreciated by this SLO resident. Thanks From: <jdemers @ calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulhollnad@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31, 2001 9:44 AM Subject: COSTCO Dear City Council: I am asking that you reconsider allowing COSTCO to build in SLO. If feel it would be beneficial to all residents and would also benefit the city in tax dollars. I was very disappointed that the council voted against COSTCO in the first ballot. Please reconsider. I am a resident of San Luis Obispo and would like to see SLO benefit from the taxes rather than Santa Maria. Sincerely, Jerry DeMers From: <Grossirwe@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 9:54 AM Subject: Costco Being part of a very large civic organization in our city, I am aware of the strong feelings by the majority of our members in FAVOR of Costco. Many of us are senior citizens and while we will continue to shop in Santa Maria if it remains necessary, we would much prefer the convenience of spending our tax dollars in SLO. Yes,there are reasons why not to allow Costco her, but the reasons to welcome them are FAR greater. It is apparent that the voters want this store, please help us get it. Thank you, E. S. Grossi From: <SLOSenior@aol.com> To: <Asettle@slocity.org>, <Jewan@slocity.org>, <Jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 4:40 PM Subject: COSTCO Please vote FOR COSTCO in your Feb. 6 meeting. We live in Los Osos and are on Social Security. We spend very little money in San Luis, but do drive to distribute our tax dollar in Costco in Santa Maria. Barbara and Ed Hawkins CC: <Kschwartz@slocity.org>, <Cmulholland@slocity.org> From: <BelMo3@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>; <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <Belingheri@aol.com> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 4:40 PM Subject: Big Box Stores Please revote and Allow Costco Dear City Council Members: I have lived in San Luis Obispo for the past 18 years. I am a mother of three children. The convenience of having a Costco in SLO would greatly improve our lives. At a time when our schools budget is being cut significantly, I can't believe that this City council is not trying to raise more money for the City. I would think that having Costco here in the City limits with the increased income to the city would not only improve our school but also bring in money for the much needed parks and other needed improvements. I am very fortunate to be raising my family in such a wonderful community. I truly feel that this city council is not representing the people who voted them in by voting for this ordinance. Please correct this next week when you revote. Thank you very much, Beth Belingheri Mother 2975 Hawk Hill Lane San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 549-0478 From: "Leslie Terry" <Leslie_Terry@saes-group.com> To: "asettle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "jewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "cmulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "jmarx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "kschwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 4:59 PM Subject: Costco Dear All, I am sitting in a room with 20 registered voters. We have been chatting at the coffee machine regarding the need for a local Costco. We are all persons who make a regular trip to Santa Maria for goods such as diapers, shampoo, dry goods etc. Several colleagues who live in Atascadero would be very pleased if San Luis Obispo did not get the Costco as this would increase their odds of getting one (these persons also currently shop in Santa Maria and would stop in a San Luis store were one available). Please support any means to get a Costco into San Luis Obispo. Thank you and best regards, Leslie Terry+colleagues SAES Pure Gas From: Priscilla Sandoval<supremegoddessottheuniverse@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slo.city.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 5:06 PM Subject: Costco in SLO Attn.: Mayor Settle& SLO Supervisors This E-mail is to encourage you to allow Costco to come in to SLO. My family has been in SLO for over 3 generations and there are many of us that travel every two weeks to Costco religiously to buy our groceries. We save thousands of dollars each year. This is why we will continue to do so until we have one in SLO. I know that we have many other friends in the area with the same feelings about this. We feel this should be an exception to our views on big box stores. Our understanding is that Costco will bring us over a million dollars in tax base to our county. We feel we are giving away our money to help another county.This is not good money sense. Furthermore, Alex Madonna has tried many times for many years to better our city with small projects and we feel for many years our city has turned him down for personal reasons. Is this possibly because some members have businesses that may be impacted.Alex Madonna is an upstanding citizen and has helped our community, church, and citizens make a better life in our community for many years. His Madonna Inn brings many visitors from all over the world each year. With them comes their money.With them leave stories of our community and more people come. We are in favor of Costco.Thanks to hearing Dave Garth on KSBY TV this am we are prompted to write this letter. Priscilla Sandoval Richard Sandoval Mary E. Garner William R Garner Lorie Norkus Glenn Norkus Shirley Norkus Aaron Beardsley Christina Beardsley Randy Miller Jr. CC: <Priscilla_Elyse@msn.com> From: Mary Salter<msguy@ pacbell.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 5:28 PM Subject: Costco I am am a resident of SLO city and would like your support of having Costco (Big Box) store to be built here in SLO... Sincerely Marvin L. Salter 210 Via San Blas San Luis Obispo Ca 93401 From: <MrSmith733@aol.com> To: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan @ slocity.org>, <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 5:33 PM Subject: Costco Mr. Mayor and City Councilmembers, As a San Luis Obispo resident, I just want to voice my opinion to you about the upcoming vote on the city ordinance to stop big-box stores. I hope you will reconsider your votes on the matter, because it doesn't make sense to stop Costco from building in our city. People would benefit from the business, and I don't think it would have a detrimental effect on the downtown area. I imagine that it would only bring more money into the city as well. Thank you for listening to my opinion. Ryan Smith From: "David and Charla Whitman" <Iosososwhitmans @ hotmail.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 6:21 PM Please rethink this situation. If you have ever gone to Santa Maria to go to Costco, have you made more than one stop? We usually make several. Stops that we would have made in SLO instead. We go to Costo, we go to Food 4 Less,we stop at BurgerKing or McDonalds, usually we go into Robinson-May or Mervyns or Sears or Gottschalks. In other words, Santa Maria is getting more than our Costco dollars and San Luis Obispo merchants are losing our business. Put a Costco here and keep the SLO Co money in SLO Co..... Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: <avtech@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 7:30 PM Subject: Big box store Dear City Council Member: I am a resident of the city of San Luis Obispo, and would like to voice my opinion on the 'Big Box Store" issue. I did see Mayor Al Settle's news interview on the local KSBY news yesterday, and I feel that there is more than the convenience factor, and the fact that not many"local" people would want a Costco here in San Luis Obispo. What about: 1.The local tax collected benefiting San Luis Obispo. 2. Keep buyer(s) in SLO, vs loosing shoppers to another city. 3. The added traffic shopping at Costco COULD also generate more local business sales. 4. The added jobs would also benefit the local community As far as traffic concerns,the 101 freeway is very near the proposed Costco site, therefor keeping the shoppers that would only shop at Costco away from local traffic areas. I urge all concerned to please reconsider the "Big Box Store" issue. Thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter. Regards, San Luis Obispo resident J. Salter From: Karen Flynn <klsykarn @ pacbell.net> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30,2001 3:52 PM Subject: Costco PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE BRING COSTCO TO SAN LUIS OBISPO. I BEG YOUM DON'T MAKE US HAVE TO DRIVE TO NORTH COUNTY TO SPEND OUR MONEY. From: "Stephen Thayer" <STHAYER@firstunionl.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <Cmullholland@slocity.org>, <Jewan@slocity.org>, <Jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 12:13 PM Subject: Costco Dear City Council Members: Since it's opening in 1988, my family has traveled to Costco in Santa Maria at least every other week to buy the consumables that we use. Usually our bill is at least$300. When we are down there, we usually run into several other San Luis families doing the same thing. We also continue to spend thousands of dollars a year at local businesses. I have been in SLO since 1976 and my wife since 1973. Neither of us know anyone who does not shop at Costco. Given that, we are very concerned about who the Council is representing in their votes and comments about having Costco come to our community. This misrepresentation of the will of the majority will not be forgotten nor excused by many people when the next elections come along or when the Council is asking for our support. Please remove the roadblocks to this developement. Sincerely Steve& Peggy Thayer 543-1099 - home 782-6680 -work From: "Russ Kiessig" <Russ@thegrid.net> To: <Undisclosed-Recipient:;> Date: Tue,Jan 30,2001 6:15 AM Subject: Costco is supported by a clear majority of the people in the county Please review what you are doing when you dictate what a successful, private, entrepreneurial business shoud do. Costco is a sought after, beneficial source business in any community and many, many thousands of people have voted for it with their feet and money. Driving to Santa Maria to go to Costco is a common practice in this county, as you surely must know. Please reconsider the overall situation and support the beneficial addition of Costco to our community. Thank you Russ Kiessig From: "Carol Kiessig" <careoh@thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 7:11 AM Subject: Costco Application Dear Mayor Settle, While not a resident of the "City" of San Luis Obispo, as a business person and resident of the County, I want to urge you to reconsider your vote on the Costco application that will come before you again on February 6th. Having followed the story closely- and witnessed an outpouring of letters supporting Costco in the local paper- I think the handwriting is on the wall: People in this community want Costco to come here. We don't want to drive to Santa Maria (and drive our tax dollars there as well!), nor do we wish to so closely control our businesses that each store's inventory is actually"controlled" by government(outside of illegal substances-which should be). This is America, Mayor Settle; please remember that when you cast your vote. It is the land of free enterprise-the land of opportunity-the land that our ancestors made great- please do not work in the opposite direction. Respectfully yours, Carol Kiessig San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 595-2292 CC: <cmullholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan @ slocity.org> From: <ddingus @ calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30,2001 8:24 AM Subject: Business Floor Space Ordinance I'm a 28 year resident of SLO and strongly believe this community needs to grow and thrive in a competitive marketplace. I urge you to not pass an Ordinance that restricts floor space for non-taxable items a business markets. Let's protect the consumer and not protect a Union. Let's keep shoppers and tax dollars coming to SLO. Vote( No on the Ordinance. It's bad for both the consumer and business. Lee Price-_City_Web_Visitor Commenf Page 1 From: <webserver@slocity.org> To: <Iprice@slocity.org> Date: 1/29/01 7:45PM Subject: City_Web_Visitor_Comments Today's Date: 1/29/01 Visitor's Name: Phyllis Gardner Address: 1350 Atlantic City Ave City: Grover Beach State: CA Zip Code: 93433 Phone: 481-6586 Fax: Email Address: jgar638796@aol.com Comments/Questions: Though we live in the 5 cities area and not in the SLO city, the decision regarding Costco still affects us. We go to Costco once a month and usually purchase for 2 or 3 households, due to the distance. We also make purchases at our local Vons and Scolaris once or twice a week. We are paying S.B. county sales tax while our county hoes without. Costco has already stated they will take care of the traffic impact on Los Osos Valley Rd. Aren't there many ways our county could use the sales taxes? Thank you, Phyllis Lee Price-costco Page 1 From: <AJminpin@aol.com> To: <Iprice@slocity.org> Date: 1/29/01 7:19PM Subject: costco I live in San Luis Obispo. And I would like to see a costco in this town. You cant keep SLO town unique not with the colleges. Most of the kids have ruined this town. I have lived here my whole life 49 yrs. It would be nice to be up with the times. Please try to accommodate the people who live year after year, not just the kids who stay for 4 and move on. Please rethink the costco Thank you for your time Ann l•Lee Price-costco Page 1 From: "nhaskin <nhaskin@fx:net> To: <khampian@slocity org> Date: 1/2b/01 6:31_PM Subject: costco We want a costco on Los Osos Valley road:We are tired of driving:to Santa Maria. Neil and Carol Haskin Barbara Ehrbar-Ci Web Visitor Cor rots From: <webserver@slocity.org> To: <behrbar@slocity.org> Date: 1/30/01 10:41 AM Subject: City_Web_Visitor Comments Today's Date: 1/30/01 Visitor's Name: Nancy S. Parker Address: 1396 Diablo Drive City: San Luis Obispo State: CA Zip Code: 93405 Phone: Fax: Email Address: Comments/Questions: Please relay this message to the City Council that I live in SLO and I want a Costco. Please consider this at the revote. Barbara Ehrbar-City_Web Visitor Coy ants Page1 . From: <webserver@slocity.org> To: <behrbar@slocity.org> Date: 1/30/01 8:12PM Subject: City_Web Visitor Comments Today's Date: 1/30/01 Visitor's Name: E.J. Martin Address: 1789 Frambuesa City: San Luis Obispo State: Ca Zip Code: 93405 Phone: 544-5836 Fax: Email Address: ejskdogbrutus@aol.com Comments/Questions: Mayor Allen Settle: I am not usually involved in objecting to city government but you and the city counsel have gone to far. If you think I have no standing to object,you should know that I was born in SLO, not a Johnny come lately. I have raised four children here and my parents, uncles, aunts, cousins,ect.have been here long enough to have private nursed Julia Morgan, attended the first classes at Cal Poly,put the land spit around Morro Rock etc. In other words I didn't just arrive like the now infamous Mulhollands of our city counsel and yourself. Its time that you and the rest of the liberals of the counsel decide to follow the City's general plan and put in shopping where it is supposed to be placed. The Dalidio and Madonna properties should be used as intended by our already stated plans. You and the others who continually vote against needed shopping and job opportunities are absolutely wrong. If you are thinking you are representing the majority,think again. Both Mr. Dalidio and Mr. Madonna are life long representatives of SLO. Each has shown more support for SLO and the businesses of SLO than the majority of the city counsel. Mr. Madonna has done more to bring tourists to SLO than any one individual and yet you and the counsel,for years, have turned a deaf ear to him when he wants to develop his properties. Its time that you find a way to cooperate with the folks who really have the best interest of SLO In their hearts. Forcing the true leaders of this community to use the tactics of pitting the county and city against one another is not the best way to develop a truly people friendly community. It is my opinion that you are in the process of wrecking our town. It will not take to much longer to run the rest of the respected business people out if you don't bring some anchor establishments to the community. Its also obvious that you don't have the feel for the folks who don't have the financial resources that you have. Some efforts need to be made to help bring prices under control for them and to bring much needed tax support to services for them and others. Having another COSCO here would not have hurt the community and is in an area that has already been utilized for business. I personally think the counsel's decision was just another Madonnarake. Get off the stick and do another wishey wash and approve the project. From: 'Brandie Butler" <Brandie@thegrid.net> To: <sstendahl@slocity.org> Date: 2/4/01 12:47PM Subject: Costco Dear Mayor Settle, I am sending this email to let you know of my support for the building of a Costco in San Luis Obispo. I have been a resident here for five years and I have to let you know of the inconvience of having to drive to Santa Maria to get any"real' shopping done. I would prefer that my sales taxes go to the city that I live in so that we can improve the roads, schools, and support new city projects. I think that denying big stores like Costco or Target the right to enter San Luis will be a huge mistake, financially and economically. As a small busines owner myself, I am aware that big stores can run smaller stores out of business, but I also know that business thrives off competition and if any store wants to remain in business they must adapt to their surroundings.Thank you for hearing me and I hope that you will make the right decision. Sincerely, Brandie N. Butler From: "B Pratt" <bpraft@thegrid.net> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: 2/5/01 6:53AM Subject: COSTCO and MARKETPLACE Sir, I am very concerned over the °not in my backyard" attitude that has colored so many of the councils decisions of late. SLO County is not a cheap place to live, rental and housing prices have gone up 30 to 40 percent in the last four years, driven up by the retirees and students that flock to this area. But while the cost of living increases in our area, the wage base and the local industry have not grown at the same rate. So, it seems that the Council should be looking at more than just the special interests of people who can afford to live here and look to the needs of the people who are trying to support a family in this community. If a family making$54,000 a year can qualify for affordable housing, that means that a person making minimum wage plus tips at the local restaurant or pumping gas for a living is living in poverty. This portion of your community does not have the time to go to City Council Meetings or write letters,they are busy working tow jobs, raising kids and trying to pay the bills. Yes, a COSTCO would be a big change for SLO, but the proposed site is LOVR, not the middle of downtown. The large attention-grabbing dealership buildings can handle the blight of being near a big box store. As to COSTCO effecting other businesses, many SLO citizens (and surrounding communities) make their once a month trek to shopper friendly Santa Maria as it is, so this will just bring their dollars back to our community and waste less gas. The grocery store chains in SLO should not be so afraid of a little competition, bulk food shopping is not for everyone (and neither are long lines or full parking lots) and FOOD 4 LESS did not put any grocery stores out of business when they moved in a few years ago. As for the Marketplace, I look at the Tank Farm Road area and try to understand what is so special about the Dalidio farm land ? We have gobbled up a lot more agriculture land in the name of industrial parks, newspaper offices, and FOOD 4 less than the area we are talking about on Madonna Road. How much longer do you think that farming is going to be viable in this location ? With the pollution from the freeway and the cries from the neighbors over the pesticides, it is time to create some better planning for the future of this area, including a green belt and more housing. I hope you and the City Council will look at the other side of the coin for a minute. We need to bring more jobs to this area for long term survival and we need affordable and convenient shopping for the people who work in these businesses. CC: <sstendahl@slocity.org> r From: "Donald Hammers" <dhammers@slonet.org> To: <sstendahl@slocity.org> Date: 2/2/01 7:11 PM Subject: COSCO YES , I WOULD LIKE COSTCO IN OUR AREA. THEN I WOULDN'T DRIVE TO SANTA MARIA OR BAKERSFIELD, THAT WOULD KEEP MONEY IN OUR COUNTY. From: Phil Gray<pgray@midstate-cal.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 3:29 PM Subject: Let Costco In! Dear Mr. Ewan, Please don't let the big supermarkets and the grocery workers' union control what businesses come into the city--That's undemocratic! Costco pays more than their union members earn, so Costco employees don't want the union.And the supermarkets don't want the competition.Their response is to try to fool the City Council into keeping Costco out. Costco will be a real benefit to the city: It will bring needed sales tax to the city that now escapes to Santa Maria It will bring new, good-paying jobs, with benefits, to the community It will provide merchandise at lower prices for local retailers, and local consumers Auto traffic will be reduced because thousands of trips each year to Santa Maria will be avoided The Chamber of Commerce opposes this unfair new law. The Planning Commission saw through the phony arguments of the big markets and their unions-- surely the Council will, too! Thank you for voting AGAINST this law, and FOR our citizens! Phil Gray 1320 Archer St., San Luis Obispo 93401 From: "Grant Himebaugh" <Ghimebau @ rb3.swrcb.ca.gov> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15,2001 4:16 PM Subject: Please Say No to the Grocery Unions at the January 16 Hearing Dear Vice-Mayor Ewan: My wife and I are homeowners in San Luis Obispo. We are emailing to voice our concern that the city may adopt the grocery union worker sponsored ordinance to restrict competition from non-union stores. Whether one desires "Big Box"stores in San Luis is one issue. (I would actively support a Costco, yet actively oppose a Walmart.) Though we believe strongly that categorically ruling out all "Big Box" competition does a disservice to the people of San Luis. We already have such a great discrepancy between income and cost of living. Let's do our best to relieve some of the cost of living aspects, while preserving our downtown's viability. The two goals are definitely obtainable. We know you can do this by ultimately allowing a more upscale Big Box store such as Costco, which will not only customize/improve the appearance of their store, but will also not present direct competition to a large number of smaller stores as Wal Mart or similar stores would. Costco's selection, hours, customer service and convenience are too limited-Walmart's is not. Our neighborhood is very tight-knit, and I know our neighbors support a Costco, yet very few other large stores in our city. Please vote against any ordinance to categorically limit the size of food sale areas within a store. Thank you, Grant Himebaugh and Lida Tan From: <ddotson @ calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 5:37 PM Subject: Costco Dear Vice Major John Ewan: I am writing in regard to the proposal for the new Costco. I think we should have a Costco here because it would keep our tax revenue local. Also, it is hard enough for us locals to make ends meet with the high prices that we have to pay at the local grocery stores. I think it would also help reduce some of the pollution. Thank you. Dianne Dotson. From: "Heather Kelley" <heathkelley@lcmalbums.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 6:27 PM Subject: Costco cc:John Ewan, Christine Mulholland,Jan Marx, Ken Schwartz Dear Mayor Settle, I am writing to you regarding the Costco coming to San Luis Obispo. I am totally in favor of this. Currently I drive to Santa Maria to go to Costco. This upsets me because it is in Santa Barbara County which has a higher tax rate then we do, and this also means that my money is going to Santa Barbara county instead of our own. I also think it would be good to bring them here because of all the jobs it will bring. I know a few people that have worked for Costco, they are a good employer and they pay their employees well. They also do a lot for the communities that they are in. I don't think that it will take away from the businesses here because people are already driving from SLO to Santa Maria now to go to Costco, and in turn going to other shops down there and making a day of it. If we allow it to come to SLO then people will stay in town and shop at our stores! Please allow Costco to come to SLO we have been waiting for this for a long time. (I have been a Costco member since 1994) Thank you for your consideration of this matter. Sincerely, a voting citizen, Heather Kelley P.S. I did vote for you in the last election and will be watching how you decide to keep in mind for the next election. CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: <Ladolcel @aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 7:11 PM Subject: Costco Dear Vice Mayor Jeff Ewan: I am writing to ask you to please support the Costco ordinance. I was born and raised in San Luis Obispo. My husband works for our local U. station and I am an elementary school teacher. As you are aware, San Luis Obispo is a very expensive place to live especially for those of us who are middle income. My family drives once a month to Costco in Santa Maria to purchase good quality products and food items for considerably less money than we would pay here. For those of us who must stretch our dollars, we depend upon Costco to help us with our grocery bills. Please remember there are 15,000 of us in San Luis Obispo who have a Costco membership. Please support the Costco ordinance! Thank you, Marisa Teel San Luis Obispo, CA From: "akhslo" <akhslo@email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 8:03 PM Subject: Fw: Costco —Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday, January 15, 2001 7:55 PM Subject: Costco Yep, here is another for the Costco unit! Even as a downtown business person, I think it will be a boon for the town. Given all the pro's, such as great wage base, number of employee hirings, proven stability of the company, lessening of our 35 mile drives to Santa Maria, etc., it seems only right to give such a company the right of free trade, without any restrictive requirements put on them that would not be put on others. With the extra tax base and the many extra shoppers drawn from the five cities, Atascadero and Paso areas ,we can only do better here in San Luis Obispo. If Costco draws them to the area instead of Santa Maria, I WILL get my share! Thank You, Keith Hamilton-Hamilton Estate Jewelry From: "akhslo" <akhslo®email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15,2001 8:17 PM Subject: Fw: Costco -----Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday, January 15,2001 8:12 PM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Mayor, As a current COSTCO member, i am very much in favor of the new unit being built on Los Osos Valley Road. With it will come employment, incomes,taxes, LESS pollution over a 35 mile drive to Santa Maria, and a draw to our city of the extra 15,000 to 20,000 customers who now go South every month. My understanding is that some of the council is looking at applying a special restriction against COSTCO based on its merchandise and store usage.This I believe to be very unfair. Please use your best judgement for our town, and allow a very productive and good neighbor into our retail environment.We will all be pleased, I'm sure,with the results it will give. Thank you, Shade Rouse' 532 Leff St. San Luis Obispo, Cal. (third generation local girl!) From: "Fran Edwards" <frane®thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 8:28 PM Subject: Fw: In favor of Costco on LOVR Dear Vice Mayor John Ewan. For more than thirty years my family and my friends have shopped at Costco in Santa Maria. I spoke to Mr. Cochran when he was the head of the downtown Business Association many years ago with my concerns that our money was going to Santa Maria . Obviously we are in favor of having a Costco built in San Luis Obispo. I appreciate the look and feel of a small town. I appreciate the City making every effort to keep our town something special that we can be proud of- however, we are no longer a small town. Those "big box" stores you refer to have already been allowed into our County. Such as Wal Mart, Office Depot, Vons, Ralph's, and Cost Plus (World Market). It is time we let Costco into SLO and their location on LOVR is a perfect location. I believe Costco will have a positive affect on our community, not a negative one. It will bring many jobs to our community, revenue in the way of sales tax (which is now going to Santa Barbara County) and an increase in our property tax. This might help to offset some of the tax revenue we have or will be losing from the Diablo Power Plant. Many store owners are worried and to that I say that Santa Maria stores have survived. We have been taking our dollars to Santa Maria already and that won't stop if the Costco isn't built. Also, while we are in Santa Maria shopping at Costco, we do other shopping that if there was a Costco here, those dollars might remain in this county. I look with disfavor on legislation from the council that would reject this request to build a Costco on LOVR or try to restrict or limit what they can do or sell. I am a property owner on High Street and have been and will continue to be an active voter. I have lived in this County since I was two years old. I urge you to vote in favor of the Costco proposal and not limit what it can do or sell when it is submitted to the city council. Sincerely Frances L. Edwards SLO resident/voter From: "akhslo" <akhslo@email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 8:29 PM Subject: Fw: COSTCO -----Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday,January 15,2001 8:22 PM Subject: COSTCO Sir: As a COSTCO cardholder, and several times a month visitor to the Santa Maria store, I think that it would behoove us all to allow the new COSTCO to erect their store here. As a "minimum wage" person, I especially like the idea of their beginning wage structure, and will be among the first to apply for one of their positions. I also think that the restrictive provision I have heard about should not be applied to COSTCO, as I believe that is very much in restraint of trade and not fair to what can be a vedry good neighbor for us all. Please do consider COSTCO as a viable and contributing member of our community, one which will give us taxes, employment and good service with their products, all to the benefit of San Luis Obispo. Thank You, James L. Dove 532 1/2 Leff St. San Luis Obispo, Cal. 549-8348 From: <Rgholland@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 11:22 PM Subject: Costco Mayor Allen Settle Vice Mayor John Ewan Councilmember Christine Mulholland Councilmember Jan Howell Manx Councilmember Ken Schwartz To City Council members: I am unable to attend the meeting of January 16th but I would like to let you know that I fully support the addition of Costco to our community. I also strongly support the complete,full and normal range of all their goods and services. Thank you Bonnie Holland 3921 Carissa Court San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 e-mail rgholland@aol.com CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx®slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org> From: Bains David<dbains8@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 7:53 AM Subject: Lets bring Costco In Hello, I have just a few brief comments about the proposed Costco coming to San Luis Obispo. I am in favor of Costco building in the proposed location for the following reasons: 1) 1 like the idea of the larger stores being located in one area, away from the downtown and historic areas of town,yet easily accessible from the freeway. 2) With San Luis Obispo County having the 6th highest housing cost in the united states, and having lower wages than other high rent areas, like San Jose or Los Angeles, anything that helps locals save money is welcomed. 3) Costco pays their employees very well.This means the new warehouse will proved not only new jobs, but new jobs that pay a decent wage. In general, I don't feel "big box stores"are a detractor to the local, downtown businesses. When tourists come to town,they wont' go to Costco; they have one at home.They will go to our charming downtown area to shop at stores like Atmospheres, Central Coast Surf, or Boo Boo Records. When I go shopping, I choose to shop downtown or drive to Paso to go to Target for very different reasons. I shop downtown for unique items I am only likely to find downtown, or just to wander around and enjoy the 'scene.' I got to Target to save money and have a larger selection. Personally, I don't think the two compete with each other. Instead, I think they complement each other. Again, this is just my opinion, but wanted to go on record as being supportive of Costco building in the proposed location. Oh, and I think attempting to limit the store to less than 5%groceries would be unfair. Some of the best deals at Costco are the food buys! Thanks for your time, David Bains Cayucos, CA From: Gary<ggrannem @calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 9:27 AM Subject: Allow the Costco store in San Luis Obispo without restrictions Allow the Costco store in San Luis Obispo without restrictions! To: San Luis Obispo City Council 16 January 2001 We are for allowing Costco to build and operate without the proposed city ordinance on limits of thier items they can have forsale. Please consider the following: 1. City government should not become involved in line item management of store inventories. 2.The UCFW is using government to protect the supermarkets share and limit competition. 3. If Costco is restricted to 5%floor area for food,then restrict grocery stores to 5% nonfood items. 4.We are members of Costco and shop there because of the savings and will continue to do so! 5. Help a 22 year resident of San Luis Obispo save TIME, MONEY and the ENVIROMENT. 6. Bring our tax money back into this county. Thanks for reading this. Gary Granneman Joyce Granneman Vista Lago, SLO CC: "ggrannem@calpoly.edu"<ggrannem @ calpoly.edu>, Joyce Granneman <jegranneman @ earthlink.net> From: "Carol' <cripp @charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 9:53 AM Subject: Costco Sirs and Madames: My husband and I would like to go on record as supporting allowing Costco to be established in Sand Luis Obispo. We are long time residents of SLO (since 1958) and have often made the trip to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. When one considers the many trips made by many SLO citizens to take advantage of Costco in Santa Maria, it would seem prudent to eliminate that unnecessary travel and pollution. We do not believe it would be any danger to local "Mom and Pop" stores of any genre. We urge you to allow Costco to come to SLO. Thank you for your time. Herman and Carol Ripp From: Chuck"<homeworker@calinet.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> - Date: Tue;Jan 16,2001 10:21 AM Subject: big box stores Mr..M66 Mayor, I support the presence of.a big box stores.in the.county. Prices are getting to high.for the.elderly and low income citizens. Thank You, Chuck,Kemp 461-5461 From: <LUANAC®aol.com> To: <aseftle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx®slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 10:22 AM Subject: Support for Costco Gentlemen: We live in San Luis Obispo and we are e-mailing you to let you know that my husband and I support the new Costco in SLO. We drive down to Santa Maria every 4-5 weeks to load up on grocery supplies. We also purchase gifts and items for the house. We, too, do not want the Mom and Pop stores to go out of business; however, we feel that competition is good for the marketplace. We tried to purchase two cameras from a local camera store the last shopping weekend before Christmas and were unable to find a store that was open after 6:00 p.m. (quite unusual for any store the last full weekend before Christmas). When we finally were able to make it to the store during the week before Christmas and during regular business hours,we were told they did not have the products (they were "just" out) and our best bet was to go to Costco or to shop on the Internet. We obtained one camera on the Internet and the other was purchased at a small store in Seattle. In speaking with the employees at Talls Camera at Bellevue Square,they found that they had to compete price-wise with the on-line stores and their customer service had to be excellent in order to maintain their customer base. They did a great job! We are definitely in favor of Costco and feel that SLO would receive a significant increase in tax dollars if everyone in SLO County who drives to Costco in Santa Maria would spend their money at Costco in SLO. Sincerely, Luana M. Campbell From: "Robert Smalley"<rksmalle @ msn.com> To: <asettle®slocity.org,jewan@slocity.org,jmarx@slocity.org, kschwartz@slocity.org, cm ulholland®slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31, 2001 7:39 AM Subject: Costco SLO City Council I was raised in this city. I have lived here since 1952. 1 have seen much in the way of progress here and, for the most part, I feel it has been good for the City. I was disappointed with the Council's actions when you voted for the ordinance that excluded stores such as Costco from the City of San Luis Obispo. I do not believe, especially after observing the comments made by the Mayor and certain City Council Members, that the decision was based on the good of the City or those who reside therein. I believe that the decisions have been based more on pressure from Special Interest Groups and, quite possibly,the "I'm here now,so let us close the door and not let anyone else in!" mind set. The Mayor stated that he felt that the question was about evenly split with the residents of the City. So, based on that bit of unscientific information, he has decided to opt for the "keep them out" side. Well, I'm not so sure that the City Council really has a finger on the pulse of the residents. And, it sure would not be the first time that this City Council has totally ignored what the residents really want. There is already a"Big Box"store going in at the Los Osos Valley Rd. location. The "traffic" problem already exists and will exist regardless of the existence of Costco. But, on the other hand, the income for the City from allowing Costco in would be substantial. Keeping Costco out of the City will not bring those of us that travel elsewhere to a Costco to shop back to spend that money in the City. We will still go there. And, for your information, it does not stop us from going to the local stores for those items that we do not, or can not, get at Costco. If the items that I buy at Costco were available locally and competitive in price, I would shop here. They are not. I can't go downtown San Luis Obispo and obtain anything that I get from Costco. Please, step down from your"Ivory'towers and get in touch with the real world. We don't want to tum San Luis into another Santa Maria, but we don't want to have to go to Santa Maria(or any other town, for that matter)to be able to find what we need. Very, very sincerely, Robert Smalley 1712 Vicente Dr. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 805-541-3902<br clear=all><hr>Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at<a href="http://explorer.msn.com u>http://explorer.msn.com</a><br></p> From: "Denny& Daphne Wheeler" <dwheele9@ix.netcom.com> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31, 2001 8:48 AM Subject: Costco January 31, 2001 Dear Mayor Allen Settle and Members of the City Council: When I came here 44 years ago to live, San Luis Obispo was proud of it's reputation as the shopping center of the Central Coast. People came here from as far away as King City and Lompoc,just to shop, and maybe take in a movie. The sales tax generated helped to make this a financially healthy community, as well as a delightful place to live and to visit. We are in a changing world. We have discouraged keeping up with the times, in order to preserve our rural atmosphere. Droves of people still come here to work, but many of them drive to their places of abode to live and shop, thus creating the traffic problems we all dislike, but not spending their money. I find that I get irritated when I see the increase in traffic, but I get even more irritated when I feel that we need to go to other communities to purchase many of our desired items We have a school district that is in horrible shape, partly due to discouraging business and the resultant lack of property and sales taxes. We need a balance between retail, light manufacturing, and residential properties.The addition of a Costco will help our kids. Any community that tells business what it can and cannot sell is akin to a communistic government. If you feel you are smarter than the entrepreneur, I invite you to go to Russia and see the terrible fix they got themselves into. I went into the new Ralph's Grocery Store the other day, and was amazed to find that in addition to groceries,they have auto parts, hardware, bicycles and parts, nursery items, pet supplies,televisions, drugs, and sporting goods. Did you tell them that they could or could not sell these items? In short, I think that you made a horrible mistake in limiting Costco's potential, and I invite you to reverse that decision. Dennis and Daphne Wheeler, San Luis Obispo CC: "City Council Member Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "City Council member Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "City Councilman Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Vice Mayor John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org> From: <JKingma@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:50 PM Subject: Costco Please reconsider the Costco vote for our city. I feel that we deserve the right to shop at a quality store such as Costco. It would help improve the parking situation downtown as well as raise a lot of sales tax revenue. Those of us who have been long term Costco shoppers will shop there whether or not we have to drive to Santa Maria so why not save us the trouble. Its not just about saving a buck. Costco has a very liberal return policy which makes buying expensive items risk free. Many stores in SLO don't even give cash refunds just store credit. Costco always has new items that are top of the line. I have three teen agers in my household and I will continue to buy most of my food at Costco. Judy Kingma 288 Los Cerros Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: <DJJMD@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4,2001 10:56 PM Subject: Yes on Costco Dear Council member: I reaaly feel that SLO would benefit from having a high quality store like Costco in our community. Look what the new Arco on Foothill has done to lower the price of gasoline in town. Its amazing what a little competition can do for the consumer. I have been shopping at Costco for over 10 years and will continue to do so. Please help eliminate the air pollution we all create driving there. Dan Kingma CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: <Gmtietje@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 11:01 PM Subject: (no subject) Please reconsider your vote on the Costco proposal at the From Ranch at this Tuesday's Council Meeting. My husband and I are unable to attend evening meetings due to a spinal injury my husband has. However, we very much want a Costco in this community. We do not believe that there need be traffic congestion at the entrance to the development. Nor do we think esthetics of the building and parking area are incapable of a good, tasteful resolution. In addition we do not intend to change our marketing habits. We live near San Luis Obispo High School, and we regularly use Scolari's and Von's. This will not change if Costco comes to town. However,we would be able to do a monthly trip to get some items not available at our local markets. Yes, I drive to Costco in Santa Maria now. I do not like making the drive not just because of the distance and fuel used, but because my trips there force me to leave my husband at home (He has severe chronic pain from exposed nerves, and he cannot be away from home for more than two hours at a time.) I just cannot buy that Costco will make our city ugly or drive other marketers out of business. And to consider losing the possible sales tax revenue at a time when our public schools are having to retrench so sharply seems to be folly to me. The project can be done well, will not change our downtown, and will give us great services. Adelaide Tietje CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: "Geri Rose" <calif red@tcsn.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 7:13 AM Subject: COSTCO I am just one more unhappy tax payer with the city council's decision to vote against CostCo coming into our city. I have just read over the week-end about all the wonderful projects the council wants the tax payers to pay for. It would seem that welcoming stores that will generate tax money to offset the burden to the taxpayer would be good for our city. The downtown is really a tourist delight and Poly students love to shop there. For myself,the parking is bad and the stores cater to the younger set. I know I am not alone with these thoughts and I could go on but I know that you will have many more emails to read today. just wanted to share my small opinion. Thank you for taking the time to read this one. Geri Rose From: "Jan Whiteley" <janw@tcsn.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 7:28 AM Subject: COSTO I live in Los Osos. We don't have a pool. We don't have a movie theater. We don't have many places to shop. We have to go to San Luis Obispo to shop. I like San Luis Obispo. I don't like Santa Maria. Many of us up here moved up here from big cities. We like the wide open spaces and the towns. We still shop at the towns. I keep my shopping money as close to home as I can. I like shopping at Costco for large bulky items, paper plates, napkins, etc. that cost too much in grocery stores in this area. Its hard to keep up with inflation and trying to pay your bills to live in this area which we love, especially when you have kids, or if'your old and on social security or limited income. I still have relatives that come to this area and like to spend their money in SLO or Morro Bay. Why should we have to give our money to Santa Maria when we can keep it here in SLO? I would like it to be in Los Osos... If we moved away as Christine wants us all to, then we wouldn't be here to spend our money and pay our taxes and my relatives coming by wouldn't be here to spend their money and give the motels business... And if a Costco does go in, why does everyone think all the others will follow? There is so much ranch land and protected species areas being bought around here, and the mom and pop stores,are they wanting to sell? Don't they like it here? I don't think it is going to be that big of a deal. It will, however, keep the people together and happy instead of politically dividing everyone like a civil war... we can still have our beautiful area to live and protect but those who need a"costco"type store will be able to help this area by saving a few bucks to help out with the family. And we all still like going to our specialty type mom and pop stores in Slo and Morro Bay, Cambria, etc. So if we can be agreeable on all of this, why can't all of you? Why not work together on this and make everyone happy so we can stand together on other issues protecting our environment? Instead of name-calling and dividing everyone up which when I try to explain to my 10 year old son about the politics of a city, it gets me really disgusted. Please let Costco be here and lets get on with more important issues concerning our environment.. Jan Whiteley CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: John Bonnett<jhb@uuplus.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 7:29 AM Subject: Strongly in favor of Costco in San Luis Obispo. Mayor Allen Settle, Members of the City Council, I moved to San Luis Obispo in 1972 to attend Cal Poly and have lived in Los Osos for the past 26 years. For the past 20 years I have been self-employed. As a business and home owner I have to purchase many of supplies and equipment needed to run my business and home from vendors outside our area, including many trips to Santa Maria. I often find myself standing in line with other Los Osos residents at Costco. In these times of energy conservation it would be much better to bring the goods to our area in a few trucks rather than in hundreds of cars. San Luis Costal School District, not to mention the City of San Luis, could use the added tax base. Let's stop giving our tax dollars to Santa Maria. I like the "SLO life" and I do not support unrestrained growth, especially considering the water situation. But I feel a Costco will improve our quality of fife and the benefits greatly out way the detriments. I am strongly in favor of a Costco in San Luis Obispo. John Bonnett Los Osos, CA. CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: <Jimodonnal@cs.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 7:52 AM Subject: COSTCO Dear Council Member, My husband and I are long time residents of San Luis Obispo County. We moved here in March of 1965 and would never consider leaving the area. We've seen many changes in the area over that time period. We prefer shopping in San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria but we are Costco members as are most of our friends so are forced to spend our money there. I'm sure you would see a huge difference in revenue if you allow this Costco to go in. We definitely want to see Costco go in and are willing to sign petitions or whatever it takes to make it happen. Thank you for your time, Jim and Donna Harmon CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <Cm ulhol land @ slocity.org> From: <MKFORSTER@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:05 AM Subject: Copy Dear Mayor Settle, My husband and I have lived in San Luis Obispo for the past 16 years. During that time, we have seen many changes. The population has almost doubled even though the growth has been capped at 1%. I see a tremendous amount of housing developements in the works and many more in the planning stages. The city seems to not have a problem saying no to that sort of development, yet jobs and shopping to support all these new people are continually shot down. I have read all of the editorials regarding Costco and what I see is that the newer people to this town don't support it, while most others who have been here a long time believe Costco would only help our community. We've seen all the changes and been through the other"scares" and know that no businesses are going to close because of Costco. I honestly don't shop there very often and I doubt having it here would entice me to go more, but I do believe the citizens of San Luis Obispo deserve a choice in their shopping. Support Costco and the majority of citizens you were elected to represent. Michael and Kathleen Forster From: "Duke Jones" <dkjones@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:10 AM Subject: Costco/Target Mr. Ewan I shop at both Target and Costco and would love to see both of these stores in our city. I believe the city council should listen to it's citizen's and try to reach a compromise. It's time to put to rest the spirit of arrogance and devisiveness. Let's all work together to bring together a city that provides for it's residents and also keeps it's unique beauty. I think a more serious threat to our city than Target and Costco is the amount of rundown houses. It's so sad to see so many houses with cracking paint and weeds. I'm proud of out city, so seeing these neglected homes is such a shame. Sincerely, Mrs. Kathy Jones From: Charles E Greenall <chuck101633@juno.com> To: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:20 AM Subject: Yes on Costco Dear Mayor and Council members, Being born in Paso Robles in 1933 and living in San Luis Obispo since 1935 1 have grown to love this area. I've seen the world and have found no better place to be. I have never understood why we here are so closed to any new growth. I would welcome Costco to our community. Sincerely, Charles Greenall 1631 Fredericks Street City From: <ChasPB@aol.com> To: cjewah@sjocity ,org> Date: Sun, Feb 4;2601 3:36 P'M Subject, (msubject) Dear John,. We heed Costco: Charles& Marsha Braun San Luis Obispo From: david and louise boyd <dnlboyd@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 4:13 PM Subject: costco used to shop a lot in slo town--but i do not live in the city limits----- costco is not a big box store ---home depot/walmart/target/osh-ralphs--ARE BIG BOX i respectfully submit that costco is a quality-fair price volume quantity store that many small restaurants also buy from--chef rick for sure since slo does not care about what folks who live outside the city limits think---i will no longer care about slo and spending any money there---the students can have their way as you wish-- i would like to advise you that the street-sidewalks on higuera downtown are really dirty and the last time i bought a snack at cold stone to eat outside it was not very pleasant at all----we only came to town on weekdays (retired) as it was less crowded and there were more handicap spaces available to me. i really think you-all made a mistake in telling a business what they could not sell--but i also know that you really do not care what others think bye bye-slo town sincerely dave& louise boyd From: "Pat Shuster" <danceshuster@bigvalley.net> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 4:59 PM Subject: YES- COSTCO IN SAN LUIS OBISPO We need to invite companies like COSTCO into our community in order to expand the range of commercial services to ALL residents. As senior citizens, we find that driving to Santa Maria in order to take advantage of a broader range of consumer services is not only costly but demanding. Traffic,the cost of gasoline, polluting the highways is not exactly beneficial to the residents of San Luis Obispo. Thus, we urge you to support an ordinance that would permit COSTCO to open a store here in San Luis Obispo which would benefit all of us. Let us keep our sales tax dollars at home. Thank you. Louis J. and Patricia M. Shuster CC: "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz"<kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland" <smulholland@slocity.org> From: "shari farrell" <shfarre@earthlink.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 5:19 PM Subject: COSTCO Dear Councilmembers: Please reconsider passing the COSTCO request to build in SLO. As a resident I am in favor with the COSTCO proposal as are the majority of my friends and acquaintances. This has been a well discussed issue and most of us agree that COSTCO would be a welcomed addition to our community. Not only for the convenience of our residents, but the tax dollars would benefit us all. I feel that it would be a mistake to ignore the true feelings of our community and allow the tax benefits to leave our community. Those of us who shop at COSTCO will continue to shop there and make the very expensive and time consuming trip. You have already approved other large box stores and it seems that the allotted space will either be used by COSTCO or what has happened in other areas, less desirable stores. COSTCO would be a great benefit to us all and I will watch the voting very carefully+ I would not vote for future councilmembers who are short sighted and neglect to listen to their constituents. Thank you and I will see you on Tuesday. Shari L. Farell, M.D. From: "DIESELRO OF SAN LUIS OBISPO <usiron5@fix.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 5:28 PM Subject: keeping our sales tax dollars at home Mr. Mayor and City Council Members, We as registered voters, do not live in San Luis Obispo City, but one of us owns a business in San Luis Obispo and the other works in San Luis Obispo. We believe that we should support our local businesses and keep our tax dollars working within our community-- however we have to travel to Santa Maria to get to a "big box store". We believe in free enterprise and that inventory regulations should not be based on square footage. We believe that big box stores would help our communities tax base and make it possible for locals to shop within the area and not have to drive to other areas to get what they are looking for. Government is needed to control undesirable commerce however to dictate the sale of groceries is really a stretch. Many local grocery stores already sell sporting goods, clothing, hardware, etc. which is wonderful. Big box stores would only enhance our area and keep our local revenue at home. Please reconsider. David J. Brazil Penny C. Brazil P. 0. Box 2281 Avila Beach, CA 93424-2281 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: <KNP1 @aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 11:48 AM Subject: Costco Council Members First, I am a citizen of San Luis Obispo. I saw Mayor Settle on the news indicating that most of the folks opposed to the ordinance limiting food space in stores were from out of town, well, I am not. I firmly believe that you and the other two members of the council are going beyond the fiduciary duties you were elected to perform. This ordinance is clearly at the beck and call of the food workers union, not in the interest of the citizenry of SLO. They obviously have not been able to persuade workers of Costco and other stores to join their union, of their own free choice, so they turn to you to provide no choice at all! Stay out of labor management issues and stick with running the city! Our schools now face very difficult choices in reducing the district budget by$3.5 million, primarily from declining revenues attributable to Diablo Canyon and exhausting the endowment fund. In case the thought escapes you, the addition of Costco not only will provide revenue to the city through sales tax, but will add much needed revenue to the county through increased property taxes. So instead of cowing to the union, consider helping the school district to enhance the education of our children! Today's paper contained an article regarding the top goals for the city. Many of the goals are ambitious and the right thing to do for the city. But my question to you is, where will the revenue growth come from to meet these goals? The city needs tax revenues, and a steady growth of those revenues to continue to provide the valued services to the community. So why do you choose to be intrusive of businesses trying to come to SLO and limit your own revenue growth? In closing, I would ask that you listen to the comments of the various citizens who have written to you and to the editor. Set aside your personal agendas, let the union fight their own battle, and finally, let the people have the freedom of choice. Take the time to read today's editorial on Land Use and Costco and understand your role. Have the courage to change your previous vote and let the people decide where they want to shop. KurtPacheco CC: <slott®thetribunenews.com> From: Shawn Cabaniss<shawn93422@earthIink.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 1:04 PM Subject: Costco I am a resident of the northern SLO county area.Atascadero to be exact. I am appoled at the actions you are displaying towards the arrival of Costco in your town. Do you not think of the money that will be brought to your town?You are saying take your money and shop somewhere else, we are to good for your money. As a resident of Atascadero i can tell you i hate driving to Santa Maria to go to Costco. I will continue to though!! Your display of actions is saying to the public we don't need to improve the wealth of our city, or the beauty. Paso Robles ran into the same problem with Wal-mart. Though i can care less about the company of Wal-mart I can say I will continue to shop there and am sure you have weather it be in north or south county.The residents of Paso were worried about the small businesses , but they are still there. The residents all shop there.They may not like the wal-mart company but they love the store! This is the same for Costco ! I hope you all open your eyes and minds to this issue before you and realize the potential for profit the city will gain from these Costco customers. It is time to realize the hard facts and quit trying to give these one-minded people 15 minutes of fame by trying to defend their absent minded thoughts. Thank You All, An concerned county born and raised resident. From: Jeanne Silva<jls1931 @pacbell.net> To: <JEwan@SLOcity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 1:12 PM Subject: COSTCO I am upset with your vote. I can't believe you people could do this to the people of this town. Who are you talking to? Dave Garth is right when he states 75%of the people IN SAN LUIS want COSTCO. I am a native, my grandfather came here in 1898. We have never had good shopping. When my daughtser was a baby I had to drive to SM because the clothing was so expensive and to have any variety or volume so don't tell me about how adequate are shopping is here, I've lived with the problem,you haven't. If you people would have them cut back on student enrollment and tourist trade the natives would go downtown. I can't tell you how many people over 50 won't go downtown any more. The city council have allowed people tso move here without adequate streets being improved to handle the traffic. I see that on Los Osos round. People coming off the highway, traveling to Los Osos are bumper to bumper. Why wasn't that road widened years ago. The same thing with Orcutt road. Why don't you people do something about that instead of putting all the money you have put into this town on bicycle lanes? I could go on and on. You people have taken our town away from the people who have invested years of their lives and we don't like it. Jeanne Silva From: <BobO1712@aol.com> To: <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 1:36 PM Subject: COSTCO Ken Schwartz It would be wonderful if we could keep all the open space is this area. But that is not a realistic approach to real life. In addition to the green space, the wildlife, and the beautiful sound of silence, we still have to function and provide for our families. It is fine to provide this fantasy land for the tourists, but the people that live in this area also have to be provided for. COSTCO is not just another big box store. It is a store that provides some unique food and services that are either not available in our area or are very difficult to find. COSTCO is not the type of store that one shops at every day. Because the items in the store are sold in bulk, most shoppers do not shop at COSTCO more than once every other month. The local store that carry most of these items are the places we normally shop at. The idea of limiting food shelf space in relation to floor square footage is Orwellian. All the foof store is this area sell anything that will fit on the floor. Conversely, you have Long's drug stores devoting nearly half their floor space to food stuffs. I haven't read anything about Albertson's, Vons, or Ralph's complaining about that. There is plenty of room on the Froom Ranch area to place both Home Depot and Costco, and there are more than enough people in this area support those stores and maintian the healthy climate of the downtown area. Even the local chamber of commerce has questioned you intentions. The tax base that Costco would provide for the city is substantial, if Santa Maria's store is indication. Any way, my vote is for a COSTCO store on Los Osos Valley Road for occasional shopping and the downtown area for normal shopping. Robert Otto CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> From: "{USER_FIRSTNAME}{USER_LASTNAME}" <jdwebers@earthlink.net> To: <asettle@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.orp, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz@ ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 6:20 PM Subject: BIG BOX ORDINANCE DEAR PUBLIC REPRESENTATIVES, PLEASE VOTE FOR THE BIG BOX ORDINANCE TO GO THROUGH. I WORK IN AN INDUSTRY THAT COULD BE AFFECTED BY THE INTRODUCTION OF BIG BOX STORES AND I ALSO HAVE 45 EMPLOYEES THAT ARE VOTERS THAT WOULD BE AFFECTED BY LOSS OF SALES IF OUR AREA WERE TO GET BIG BOX STORES. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT, JOHN WEBER From: Linda White<[white@charter.net> To: jewan <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 6:41 PM Subject: Costco Councilman Ewan, Keep fighting for Costco. You represent my wishes and I will remember this vote next election. Linda White 2077 Slack Street San Luis Obispo From: <HTHofman@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 8:13 AM Subject: Costco I would like to see a reversal of the present thinking regarding Costco for the following reasons: SLO loses a lot of sales tax money. I will continue to take my business to Santa Maria, but would prefer to spend all of my money here. We burn gasoline and pollute our atmosphere more, by driving to Santa Maria, but we will continue to do so, unless we have a Costco closer. The time and inconvenience of driving to Santa Maria is not a factor, considering the savings to our retirement budget. As for protecting local small business, I am a former small business man from Kern County, and we experienced similar big businesses moving in on us. Our solution, we searched out suppliers that would furnish quality merchandise to us at very competitive prices, and combined with the efficiency of a smaller operation, and personal service, we competed very well. I urge you to think this thing through, and reverse your current stand. Harry Hof man From:: <Tfurnefsr6aol.corn> To: <jewan6slocity.orp Date: Sat, Feb.3, 2001 8:49 AM' Subject: (no subject) yes on costco f From: <PAPAWOW@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 8:51 AM Subject: Costco Please reconsider your vote on bringing Costco to San Luis Obispo by voting "YES".. It would not take away any income from other stores since we find certain things at Costco that other stores do not carry and we then have to travel to Santa Maria.. I believe Costco would also bring in additional revenue to our city that is needed and this store would be an asset to our community bringing in addtional employment and land development.. Al & Marilyn Rybar Avila Beach From: Penny Beavers <PENNYIHARP @webtv.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 9:10 AM Subject: Costco We want a Costco!! Penny Beavers, Cambria From: BARBARA WEBER <musdirl @webtv.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 9:28 AM Subject: Costco Yes -- I want Costco in SLO. Barbara Weber Cambria, CA From: <Darflag(baol.com> To: <-asettle@slocitymp ,Date.: Sat, Feb.3,2001 9:52 AM Subject: Costco, Please vote so that Costco maybe built in San Luis Obispo: Beth Cook; Morro Bay CC <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> From: "Joyce Knight' <joyceknight@charter.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:22 AM Subject: Costco Thank you for your support on this issue. Encouraging competition is a good thing for consumers, and a good thing for San Luis Obispo, city and county.That location for the proposed Costco will hardly be a threat to downtown and the SLO ambiance. The way it looks from here,those opposing it are really concerned about protecting the giant existing supermarket chains. Thank you. Joyce Knight Pismo Beach From: <Petekopper@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3,2001 11:01 AM Subject: (no subject) Mr. Ewan. I ask that you cease your opposition to Costco locating in San Luis Obispo. As a 36 year resident of the city, I am happy to welcome new business into our town, and am tired to being forced to travel to Santa Maria, or the bay area,to shop. Thank you. Peter Kopper From: "John Rinell" <jrinell @ msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 11:11 AM Subject: YES ON COSTCO John Ewan, We have lived in the Ferrini area and owned and operated Rinco Color Lab for 29 years in San Luis Obispo. 1. Costco carries quality products at affordable prices and will only enhance our community. It appears to be well managed, and is a store that we enjoy shopping in. 2. Because Costco caters to families and retirees, there will be no impact on our lovely downtown which caters to the college crowd and tourists. 3. Instead of yet another Albertson's Grocery Store, let us have Costco's Grocery Store. Respectfully, John and Joan Rinell<br clear=all><hr>Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at<a href="http://explorer.msn.com">http://explorer.msn.com</a><br.></p> From: "James Ellman" <ellman@thegrid.net> To: "Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slo.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 11:25 AM Subject: COSTCO Dear Mayor and City Council Members The matter before you concerning COSTCO is certainly a controversial issue and you should be commended for your good work. I realize that you are caught in a balancing act of serving your constituents and also maintaining the small town integrity of the area. However, I want you to know that every person I have discussed this issue with favors COSTCO in SLO. The reason being that they are all tired of driving to Santa Maria and giving their taxes to another county. I think it is time to realize that stores like COSTCO are a 21st century reality. Further, such stores do not have a negative impact on the shops of SLO. Rather,they negatively impact the other big box stores like Food For Less, Wal-Mart, Kmart. Lastly, any food department that COSTCO offers can in no way replace our world famous farmers market. Personally, I would rather see COSTCO in Atascadero next to the new Home Depot. But since that is not at issue I urge you to approve COSTCO request. James Ellman From: "Bob & Rosen <rrlikes@earthlink.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 11:31 AM Subject: KEEP SALES TAX DOLLARS IN SLO Let's be sensible and do our"planning"for the good of the Majority. Caring about families and those people on fixed incomes and all those who need to save money(and that is really everyone). Save people from having to drive to Santa Maria. Save pollution by having Costco's services closer and at the same time increase our tax base. Costco sells products at prices and "sizes/quantities"which cannot be compared locally.....local citizens deserve the chance to decided from themselves ...keep our people in the neighborhood. BRING COSTCO TO SLO............... From: "Diane Turner" <dinpaul @thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.or> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 11:44 AM Subject: COSTCO Dear Mayor Settle and Councilmembers Ewan, Marx, Schwartz and Mulholland: We do believe that we need a Costco in San Luis Obispo County. Even though we do not in the City of San Luis Obispo, you need to consider the County residents'feelings on this matter. You also need to consider the amount the City would receive in sales tax revenue each year and what good that would do for the City. If all of the Vons, Ralph's, etc.. and other markets haven't hurt the city, how would Costco be. different. We urge you to veto the law you passed restricting the percentage a store can carry in groceries previously and allow Costco to be built. Thank you for your consideration. Paul and Diane Turner and John and Joan Ness, Cambria From: "Randy Ellison" <REllison@charter.net> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Councilperson Christine.Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Councilperson Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Councilperson John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Councilperson Ken Swartz" <kswartz@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:08 PM Subject: Do not limit amount of floor space devoted to nontaxable items. Dear Councilperson, Please pull from the Consent Agenda and reconsider the ordinance to limit the amount of floor space large retail stores can devote to nontaxable items. Please allow free enterprise the right to determine its own destiny without dooming it to failure before it even opens, as in the first attempt of the Central Coast Mall. Business spends a lot of money and employs a lot of people in finding out what consumers want- Government, on the other hand, does not. Sincerely, James Randal Ellison 291 Cerro Romauldo San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 From: <BobLyga@cs.com> To: <asettle@sloccity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:19 PM Subject: Costco support Mayor Allen Settle, Councilmembers John Ewan, Jan Howell Marx, Ken Schwartz, Christine Molholland. Dear honorable members: We believe the city council is making a MAJOR mistake putting a blanket ordinance covering all big business (big box stores) coming into the city of SLO. These should be decided on an individual bases. This is your job. We believe you are wrong about the Costco project. The location is perfect just as the Food 4 Less location is as well. These big projects are either at the edge of the community or hidden from the main highway still giving the community the small home town feel. The location of the proposed Costco is in a perfect location being up against the hills exiting SLO and is already in an area that is developed with car dealers so it is not breaking new grounds in an area with no development. We also feel you are wrong in proposing an ordinance that would dictate how a business can us there floor space in there business. Would this ordinance be retro active to dictate how much floor place a grocery store could use for selling non food items? We feel your are running scared. Next you will say Drugstores can only sell drugs,furniture stores can only sell furniture. This is bizarre. I have talked to a lot of people and have not run across ONE PERSON that agrees with you on the ordinance's that would restrict the size of the Costco store or the bazaar restriction on the percentage of floor space they could use for food items. We believe that most of the people in support are a few business people running scarred and a people moving in from large communities buying into a small community and not wanting it to change. We don't think this project is to big for SLO. Everyone I have talked to is in support of the new SLO Costco project as proposed by Costco. We prefer to shop in San Luis Obispo County and keep our tax money here where it is needed not in Santa Barbara County. With losing tax money in the future with PG&E (Diablo) we need to be open to new tax revenue for our schools etc. It is not that our school have any extra money by reading the local paper. I used to managed a movie theater movie theater over 30 years ago, they were afraid that if cable TV with paid per view was allowed to come into Simi Valley that it would destroy the theater business, now more than 30 years later it has more than 10 movie screens. You are supposed to make good decisions for the whole community not just for a few. Robert Lyga Costco supported by, Robert and Karen Lyga, Oceano Mona Hart, Arroyo Grande Susan Pettit, San Luis Obispo Sid and Becky Gardner, Oceano From: <sdean8@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3,2001 1:19 PM Subject: City Council Meeting, February 6,2001 As a native of San Luis Obispo, and a Costco member who is currently forced to make a 60 mile round trip in order to make use of my membership, I am writing to ask you to seriously reconsider the ordinance that was passed in the January 16th council meeting. Most of those of object to a Costco store here seem to be those who have moved here in the last few years. While I can understand their concerns re: traffic, pollution, and congestion, they do not seem to realize that not only did they contribute to those very things by the simple act of moving here, but by their ability to pay higher prices for homes than most of us natives,they have effectively priced us right out of the housing market. And no doubt they will also raise objections to any additional housing being considered for this area! Too bad they didn't decide to visit and go back home--and stay there! I cannot see that having a Costco in this area would be the end of our world. While I personally would go to battle to stop Wal-Mart from locating here, I do believe that Costco would be a good neighbor. Also, I would really like to see a Target in San Luis Obispo. In fact,were I forced to choose, I would select Target over Costco. It's also too bad that you stopped Pet Smart from opening a store here, there are currently two pet stores to choose from in town, and neither of them have much of a selection. The merchants in this town have had a strangle hold on our economy for too long, it's time they had some competition and the citizens of this area had some affordable prices. One more thing I would like to add. I think Ms. Mulholland owes the citizens she "represents" (and boy, do I ever use THAT term loosely!) an apology. She has obviously not deemed it necessary, or I'm sure it would have made headlines in The Tribune. Her"invitation"to those of us who disagree with her viewpoint(and we are many!) to leave town was arrogant and unseemly in a public official,to say the least. I'm still looking for a recall petition, and hoping there is at least one of them out there. Sincerely, Sandra L. Freeman 1673 Johnson Avenue San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm u Ihol land @ slocity.org> From: "Monica Tarzier" <reckef us@ charter.net> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:50 PM Subject: Costco vs. other big box I support a SLO Costco, AS OPPOSED TO a Wal-Mart or K-mart. Please don't vote down a Costco and then allow a Wal-Mart in its place! If we're not to have a Costco, I think we should have open space instead. Thank you-- Monica Tarzier 1657 Southwood Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 784-0644 From: <Rmrall@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 3:18 PM Subject: Costco There have been many editorials regarding the pros and cons of having a Costco in San Luis Obispo. I want to weigh in on the side of allowing Costco to come into the area. My wife and I now drive to Santa Maria regularly to shop at the Costco store there. I haven't found anyone yet who opposes a San Luis Obispo Costco store. I think, as usual,the few who are opposed are always the most vocal. Please use your influence to aid in bringing this badly need shopping capability to our area. Richard and Jacqueline Rall 2449 Ladera Court San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: The Saliger Family<saligers@mail.slocs.kl2.ca.us> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 4:03 PM Subject: Costco Dear Mayor Settle and City Council members, We would like to express our support of a Costco warehouse in San Luis Obispo. We have heard all the objections about a store this size coming to our town, but we feel the benefits far outweigh the negative issues. We have been driving to the Costco in Santa Maria for over ten years. Even when we lived in Cambria,we made the trip about once a month. The main thing we buy there is food, so we would certainly hate to see the city pass an ordinance that would limit the amount of floor space that a large-scale store could devote to groceries. We still make most of our food purchases at the local grocery store, but there are some items that we like to purchase in bulk because of the cost savings. A lot of local business make their food purchases at Costco also, since they can buy in bulk at resale prices, so the argument that this store would hurt local business is not a good one. We usually eat a meal and frequently buy gasoline when we do our monthly Costco shopping. We pay more sales tax in Santa Maria then we do in our own city. Why not keep these monies in San Luis Obispo? Being retired means that we need to cut comers, and allowing Costco to come to our city with their full line of warehouse items is in the best interest of people with moderate incomes like ourselves. We are not for wild growth, however some growth is healthy, especially when it benefits a large percentage of the population. We are unable to attend the meeting on February 6 when you will again consider the ordinance, but we hope that this letter sufficiently states our support of Costco. Ginny and Bob Saliger 1608 Karen Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: <SLO707@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 5:29 PM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Ewan &Mr. Schwartz PLEASE--vote NO on Costco on Feb. 6th. In the 2+years I have lived here there have been a lot of changes and loss of open space in and around the city. I do not want SLO to be another Santa Maria, which looks like a small version of Los Angeles. I left Los Angeles and moved here--not to Santa Maria--because I did not want the L.A. ambiance and traffic. I also hope you will not vote for The Marketplace. I see that they will go to the county for an okay to build if the City Council votes no. It looks like they are following in Mr. Madonna's footsteps to get their project approved. But if the City Council stands firm about not supplying fire and police protection the Marketplace cannot be built. It is ridiculous to have a Lowe's Hardware store a half mile away from a Home Depot in a city of this size. It is also ridiculous to pave over farmland when the Madonna Plaza is half empty. By building a small parking structure and using half of the existing parking lot for new stores--plus using all the empty stores--the Plaza can be reconfigured for restaurants, snack bars, and stores that want to go into the Marketplace. Then it would be convenient for shoppers to walk to both the Plaza and the Promenade without moving their cars. I certainly hope you will seriously consider the above comments. Thank you! Sincerely, Lorie Maurer 707 Del Rio Ave. SLO From: "Sherry Cox" <belespritranch @ earthlink.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 5:58 PM Subject: FW: Costco -----Original Message----- From: Sherry Cox To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: 2/3/2001 6:07:16 PM Subject: Costco Where the heck did you get your information that we don't want a Costco??? We're in Paso, and I think it's ludicrous that we have to make a list and wait until we go up to the SF Bay Area to visit family in order to shop at Costco. There is no Costco between Santa Maria and Salinas. If we made a special trip, any savings we would gain would be . lost on gas. I wouldn't do all of my shopping there, but there are certain, items I do like to get there, including some groceries, and if there was a Costco in San Luis, I'm sure I would do other shopping while in town and probably would do lunch,too. Wake up and smell the coffee. San Luis Obispo is a city, and cities have big box stores for the convenience of their citizens. Are you making this decision on behalf of Vons and Albertsons? I hope not. They need the competition. I would be more than happy to have Costco even closer to home, but I'm sure Costco prefers to have the store in SLO where they would be assured of more business so let them come, and welcome the income that it will generate for the city. James and Sherry Cox --- Sherry Cox --- belespritranch@earthlink.net — EarthLink: It's your Internet. i From "William Carter"<wcarter99@earth[in k:net> To: <jewangslocityorg> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2--001 6:35 PM Subject: Costco Thank you for supporting those of us who want Costco. Keep up the good work!' From: "Shirley Hillsinger" <sunnysdance@msn.com> To: "Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 6:58 PM Subject: COSTCO, IN SLO Dear Mayor Settle and the SLO city council, I don't belong to Costco because I don't have a need to buy groceries in bulk, except for paper towels and bathroom tissue which I cheaper in bulk. Those I buy at Smart and Final. BUT I am definitely in favor of letting Costco move into SLO because this city REALLY NEEDS the tax revenue that such a large store can bring. Anyone who travels Los Osos Valley Road between Madonna and Higuera knows how badly we have needed that stretch of road widen for some time. Why not let the big box stores foot the cost? Also our schools are suffering from lack of funds. We all believed the state lottery would ease the financial burden but it has turned out to be nothing but a great big "loot-ery"! It makes a lot more sense to have people of low income saving money in a big box store that his bringing income into the community. WAKE UP AND SMELL CHANGE. IT'S COMING WHETHER YOU WANT IT OR NOT. Sincerely, Shirley Hillsinger CC: "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Manx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: Mary Lou Johnson <mjohnson @writestart.com> To: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 8:31 PM Subject: Vote No on groceries ordinance Councilmember Ewan, You are absolutely right, our city has no business dictating what is sold within stores.This ordinance will do nothing to stop development of "big box" stores. In addition, our General.Plan for the area at 101 and Los Osos Valley Road calls for regional, retail commercial uses. "Mom and Pop" stores can't afford the property in that area. Uphold the General Plan, and if needed pass an ordinance dealing with the overall size of individual retail stores; not what is inside them. I agree wholeheartedly with William Fulton's statement, "When land-use restrictions are crafted to pursue a narrow agenda,the community at large usually suffers", as quoted in Sunday's Telegram. Thank you, Mary Lou Johnson 2275 Flora Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: <FANMAN456@cs.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 8:58 PM Subject: costco MR.ewan i dont know what your position is on the costco vote but i would hope you vote for it.sir i was bom and raised in this fine city got married i have three children i work 2 jobs just to live here.do whats right for the working class vote for costco its a win win situation for everybody familys get a break and the city reaps the benefits of the tax dollars generated. From: Mike Baker<mnbaker@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 9:42 PM Subject: Re: COSTCO revote Dear Councilmember; I writing in regards to the COSTCO vote on 6 February 2001. To long has the city of San Luis Obispo been non-competitive to the majority of residents. This is one reason I shop outside of San Luis whenever I can, I make the 60 mile round trip to Santa Maria every month. I can't afford to pay"college student" and "tourist" prices. It has been this way since I was in high school (class of 1965, 1 grew up in SLO). COSTCO will provide some competition and jobs we need, as high tech seems to be leaving this area and jobs are a premium. I urge you to vote for COSTCO coming into this town and AGAINST any ordinance that would prohibit COSTCO from ever opening a warehouse in San Luis Obispo.This doesn't sound fair to an honest business, it sounds more like restraint of trade to me. Follow the recommendations of the Planning Commision, the Chamber of Commerce and the citizens of San Luis Obispo, we need items at an honest(low inflated) cost. One of our ex-citizens said of the City Council vote, "Let them keep businesses out of San Luis.That way the city can dry up and blow away." He said this because he had to leave , as the city had prohibited so much business he couldn't afford to live. Thank you for your time, Michael N. Baker From: <AHavrilla@aol.com> To: <cmulhol land@ slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 9:01 AM Subject: COSTCO Christine, John,Jan, Ken: Please vote YES to build Costco. I (and everyone I know) would like to see a Costco in SLO. I think it would be beneficial to our city since we frequently(once a month) make the trek to Santa Maria to spend our money. Thanks for your time. Sincerely, Annette From: "Jerold VanderPool"<jrv309 @ inreach.com> To: <asettle@solcity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:44 AM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Mayor and City Council members: I am a retired police officer and live on a fixed income. Being able to save money at Costco helps me each month. I still shop for other items at the local market and shopping centers. Saving a few dollars each month really does help. I really don't like driving to Santa Maria to shop. Besides the traffic and cost of driving there and back, I am adding to the pollution. Please keep in mind that someday you too will be retired and living on a fixed income and the few dollars saved will mean as much to you then as it does to me and my wife today. Thank you for time in reading this and for taking the time out of your our lives to run our community. Jerry and Marlene VanderPool CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx®slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: <LTan000@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:55 AM Subject: "Big Box Ordinance" Dear Mayor Settle: We are writing you regarding this issue because my wife and I voted for you last fall believing that your support of downtown commerce and vitality was not mutually exclusive of all "big box" store proposals. Indeed, we don't recall your candidates statement expressing reservations regarding big box proposals, much less what appears to be your categorical opposition to such proposals. My wife and I believed that you would weigh proposals on their individual merit,with downtown health in mind and the overall perspective of what's best for our community. Afterall,you are an educated and informed individual. However, after listening to the last public hearing on the radio, and reading your editorial in the newspaper,we were highly concerned about your statement-loosely paraphrased-that you wouldn't be in office, if the majority of voters hadn't believed in your position to exclude the Costco project. With wish to express our considerable disappointment in your statement and the apparent logic upon which it was based. After polling our SLO resident coworkers and neighbors (nearly forty people),we discovered that while over half of those polled recalled having voted for you, approximately two thirds of those voting for you disagreed with your vote to exclude consideration of a Costco project. We noted that nearly two thirds of all those polled, opposed a Walmart store. My wife and I also oppose a Walmart or Kmart store adjacent to Home Depot,though we also would support a Costco. We and most others, most having voted for you, do not see this as a black and white issue. All big box proposals are not inherently bad or good for the community and our downtown vitality. We trusted you to judiciously examine the difference in proposals, listen closely to your planning commission representative (we understand that each council member appoints one) and vote accordingly. It sincerely pains us to hear that you've evidently misinterpreted the intent of our votes. Please do not rationalize your votes by citing your presence in office. I believe that I speak for a large percentage of those community members who voted for you, especially homeowners and those of higher education, when I request you to re-examine this issue and your vote. If we are to have a"big box"adjacent to Home Depot,the consensus is that Costco would have the least impact on downtown, yet draw the most sales tax revenue from other parts of San.Luis Obispo and Monterey County. The City could dearly use this revenue. I'm certain we agree on this point. (Heating and power costs for City buildings and Sinsheimer pool alone will undoubtedly make unanticipated dents in this year's budget.) I spend considerable time working in the Monterey Peninsula area, and have noted both a healthy downtown area, and a Costco just a five minute drive away in Sand City. They survive in mutual health as our local chamber of commerce proposes for our community. Please reconsider the political art of compromise,or we may have an unwanted Walmart providing real competition for downtown retailers. Please respond to our email. So far,the only council member who has responded is Mr. Schwartz. So far, he is also the only coucil member to scientifically tally the public's input and present the results at the public hearing. His 85% pro-Costco input should tell us all something. (When was the last time we ever saw that type of lopsided support for an issue -especially despite organized union opposition?) We believe you've misread voter intent. Please reconsider. Sincerely, Grant Himebaugh and Lida Tan 1100 Fletcher Avenue CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: <MTSMTM@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 11:39 AM Subject: PRO COSTCO Dear Councilmembers, Please reconsider what the people who voted for you want. I have lived in the areas of COSTCO/PRICE CLUBS since their early inception. I was a resident of San Diego when the first warehouse opened. I saw, quickly, the benefits of this type of store for myself and the community. I was thinking in terms of simple economics then (quantity for lower price) and an acute awareness of how much waste was in landfills just from the "packaging trash"of small quantities. I also admired their recycling on the spot by using old boxes as the carryout containers. I was a single woman then but I worked hard for my money and always looked for the best value for myself and the planet. I am a wife and mother now, so that philosophy is even more important as I stretch dollars further and show my children by example. Later, I grew to know COSTCO as being generous to smaller communities when I relocated to Bakersfield and they came there to open a store. They were generous to many great causes and agreed to carry coupon books for fund raisers. They participate in wonderful work programs for students, always arranging to accommodate school schedules. Now I am a citizen of SLO County and I am traveling to Santa Maria to do ALL of my shopping. I hate the commute,the money wasted on fuel, the traffic hassle and most of all,the FACT that ALL THOSE TAX DOLLARS are going to another communities causes and programs. Now there is a new Home Depot going in and I still will not likely shop there for my home improvement goods because I will already be in SANTA MARIA to go to COSTCO. I have only lived here for 18 months but I am detecting a great deal of animosity toward Alex Madonna. I don't have any background for what may have happened in the past but there seem to be a lot of council members with a "sour grapes" attitude toward him. I have to ask myself if someone else owned the land, if there would not be a different outcome. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE take another look at what the benefits to this county are before closing the door on a great opportunity. Katherine Carson 872 Dugan Drive Pismo Beach, CA 93449 From: <HendryByTheSea@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 11:48 AM Subject: Costco in SLO Dear Council Members, As a resident and business owner here in San Luis obispo I am greatly disapointed in your recent decision against a Costco here in San Luis, and hope that you will reconsider and aprove a Costco in the upcoming vote . Since my father first attended Cal Poly and bought land here in the early fifties, my family has long enjoyed and been concerned for the Central Coast. Now that my wife and I are raising our own family of three children, we too are very attentive to the developments that affect the beauty and quality of life here. But that quality of life also involves having the stores and infastructure that makes life comfortabl here. It also means being able to afford to live and raise a family here. Stores such as Costco, in addition to our local retail stores, help families and businesses afford many of the monthy staples that we rely on. As a second generation resident it was difficult enough to secure a good job and buy a home here near my parents. I am greatly concerned that the central coast is becoming a place that only the wealthy retirees from L.A. are going to be able to afford. I do want to pretect and preserve our our open spaces, but seriously, the fields across from a auto mall and just off of a freeway don't seem to be a place of environmental enlightenment already. ( By the way, I am also in favor of the Home Depot, and could live without any car dealerships in our area, as I frequent those only once every three to five years.) I do think that we should be selective in the businesses that we encourage in San Luis. But as for me and most of the people I know,this is a business we want. I hope that you will consider this matter carefully and be aware that as a registered voter, your stand on this issue will directly influence my support for you in upcoming elections Sincerely, Bruce G. Hendry 102 Cross St. #110 San Luis Obispo, Ca From: "Don Hines"<slohines@gtcintemet.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <christinemulholland@slocity.org>, <janmarx®slocity.org>, <kenschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 11:13 AM Subject: Ordinance-Costco Dear City Council Member, >From the news reports and the local paper, it appears three council members have given the public to understand that there is, little,to no chance of not passing the ordinance that is going to in effect prevent Costco from opening here. I realize that my reiterating the points already made, by the majority of permanent residents of the city, will not change your minds about this. So, I will not try take up your time by doing this. Although, I have much to say on the matter. One of which being, why is it not better to have one large store on the outskirts of the city, near the freeway, rather than a hundred little cubicle box stores. But I do want to remind you that you can solicit the viewpoint you want to hear, by the area you chose to ask it in. For instance if you go to the seniors and long time residents, you will find they want a Costco very much. If you ask someone from Cal Poly you will more than likely get the"Keep it Quaint" response. Being lifetime residents of the city, and senior citizens, my husband and I feel we have every right to expect the city council to do away with this biased proposed ordinance, and allow Costco to build here. We need this competitive marketing.We as residents need this money saving store to help us make our money go farther. Please do not pass this ordinance. Mary and Don Hines 3536 Cedar Court San Luis Obispo, Ca. 93401 CC: <allensettle@slocity.org> From: <Belingheri@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 11:17 AM Subject: Vote to Allow Costco Dear Council Members: I am a resident and small business owner in San Luis Obispo. I am also a Costco member. I am married and have three children ages 6 to 10. 1 am also disturbed that 3 of you voted for a pro union ordinance that discourages price competition for staple food items. If you are opposed to Costco then pass an ordinance that prohibits Costco. Don't hide behind a self serving special interest group that wants to secure their market share. This would be unfair to all San Luis Obispo residents and sets a dangerous precedent that would promote other anti competition statutes. I feel that the City is already too selective on which businesses it allows within the City. Every time I go to one of our local chain stores and see that milk is$3.89 per gallon or a small box of laundry soap is $8.001 imagine how much I would save if Costco was just down the street. Or when my children are sick and I go to Rite-Aide to buy cold medicines I get irritated knowing that I am being gouged for simple OTC medications. If we can allow other chains such as Ralphs, Albertsons, Smart& Final,Trader Joes, and Food 4 Less then why not a Costco. It is expensive to own property in this City and the extra savings from shopping at Costco would allow me to improve my families quality of life. By the way, I concede that I could drive to Santa Maria and save every possible dollar of my hard earned money. However, have any of you filled up your tank lately. It costs me$8.00 in gas for a round trip to Costco. I'm sure the supermarkets are aware of this when they set their price for milk and soap in order to pay for the latest collective bargaining agreement. Plus, I thought we were pro environment in this area and carbon monoxide from automobiles is a leading cause of pollution. I also concede that Costco will also increase the traffic on Los Osos Valley Road. But isn't that road already a major artery for Los Osos residents as well as all of the other businesses in that area. I really think that traffic is just another straw man to distract from the selective discrimination that seems to be apparent. Please do not vote for this ordinance.As a registered voter I will assure you that any of the members that vote for it will not get my support in any future elections. Sincerely, Michael Belingheri 2975 Hawk Hill Lane San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 From: 'Thomas S. Ellsworth" <tellswor@slonet.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 11:09 PM Subject: 'Big Box"Ordinance Dear Council Member Ewan, I must communicate with you to let you know my feelings on the above matter. I am firmly in favor of CostCo. I feel that it is inappropriate for the City to dictate to a business how much of their floor space should be devoted to any particular part of their inventory. You did not limit Home Depot about how much of their floor space could be "garden". You did not limit Ralphs or Albertsons or Vons about how much of their floor space could be "non-food" items. So why would you attempt to dictate to CostCo about how much of their floor space could be food?The tax base needs CostCo.The revenue from PG&E is lessened each year through depreciation. Again, I am against the "big box" ordinance and in favor of CostCo. Sincerely, Nancy Ellsworth 2316 Banderola Ct San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 PS: I am happy that you voted against the ordinance. From: <DZiggydp @ gateway.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 6:58 AM Subject: Costco The need for good shopping in our area is of the up most importance. Costco is at the head of the list for good shopping. The largest number of people in our area want Costco. It is your job to impose the will of the people. I have lived in SLO since 1952 and very tired of driving to Santa Maria to do my shopping . Your neighbor Elvin D. & Polly Ayers 1545 Oceanaire Dr. SLO From: "Mike&Sandra Bebout" <bbout@inreach.com> To: <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 3:33 PM Subject: Market Place & Costco Mayor Settle&Council, Our family lives in Templeton but comes to shop in San Luis Obispo. We also shop at Costco in Santa Maria. You need a Costco in San Luis Obispo. We also support the Market Place development which will have a Target and Lowes Hardware-we would shop there. Michael Bebout From: "Jones, Michael F" <MFJ1 @pge.com> To: "'asettle@slocity.org"' <asettle@slocity.org>, "'jewan@slocity.org"' <jewan@slocity.org>, "'cmulholland@slocity.org"' <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "'jmarx@locity.org"' <jmarx@slocity.org>, "'kschwartz@slocity.org"'<kschwartz®slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1,2001 3:41 PM Subject: Costco YES! Hello, I think it would be a considerable disservice to your constituents and SLO County if a Costco were rejected. A lot of us enjoy shopping with Costco. However, we object to the drive out of our county and even worse leaving our money with another county(revenue that should remain in SLO county). I understand that Costco has a very good pay program. It would not hurt to have good paying jobs in SLO and new workers patronizing other SLO business. Los Osos valley road currently has its congestion during peak traffic hours. This road is also very dangerous during rail falls. Just a few years back a commuter was washed into a ditch and drowned in his car. Allowing a new large business will give the city of SLO some leverage for much needed road improvements. The current congestion has cars idling in slow traffic making for air poor air quality in a very localized area. It's a good project that will satisfy a lot of wants and needs for SLO city residents and the county. GO FOR IT! Thank you, Michael F.Jones SLO city resident. 422 Corrida Dr. From: <BPate40426@aol.com> To: <jewah@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1,:2001 5:03 PM Subject: costco To All,concerned: Please vote for the new Costco'in SL-O and make some progress in this town.thank you.B Pate CC: <jmarx@slocity.org> From: "Mike Hogan" <miho40@msn.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org,jewan @ slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 6:12 PM Subject: Support for Costco As a 25 year resident of the central coast and 16 year, voting resident of San Luis Obispo, I urge you to reconsider the "Grocery Ordinance"that recently recieved tenative approval. I also ask that you move to approve the Costco proposed for the Froom Ranch area. Home Depot is a given and the City must, if logic is to prevail, annex this development and project. Given the surrounding development of car dealers, motels, shopping centers, industrial (accross the freeway), and now Home Depot, Costco would be a good fit that a large majority of residents desire. If Costco does not happen on that site other"semi big box stores"will in-fill. Very few stores bring the quality retail program that Costco can offer. My concern is that these in-fill "small boxes"will be a repeat of the Central Coast Mall debacle. In conclusion, I ask that you take actions to repeal the flawed ordinance restricting grocery space in retail and allow a viable, going concern in the form of Costco to develop in this area. Use the increased tax revenue brought by this project to aggressively pursue open space and limit future growth in our City. Respectfully Submitted, Mike Hogan J From: Soukita Thipsouvanh <thipsouvanh@yahoo.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 8:41 PM Subject: WE WANT COSTCO IN SLO WE WANT COSTCO IN SLO!!! PLEASE LET US,THE CITIZENS OF SLO DECIDE WHAT BUSINESSES COME TO SLO!!! I make at least two trips to Santa Maria every month to shop at Costco. Please let my tax dollars benefit San Luis Obispo County not Santa Barbara County. Costco will benefit this county in many ways. It will provide more jobs, increase sales tax revenue, and more competitive prices. PLEASE CHANGE YOUR VOTE. PLEASE REPRESENT MY VOTE. WE WANT COSTCO IN SLO. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING. S.Thipsouvanh Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail-only$35 a year! httpJ/personal.mail.yahoo.com/ From: <W aagandCo @ aol.com> To: <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 2:03 PM Subject: re: Our Favorite Subject(CostCo) Dear Jan, Obviously, we see things differently.Thanks, as always, for listening anyways! I just want to let you know why I see the CostCo issue different from you. '1' You ask, why is this ordinance creating an uproar in the city of SLO and not the very same ordinance in AG, Paso& SLO County? My answer is simple: Each community has to decide for themselves what is important for them; I live and work in SLO and am concerned about our city. Also, the very same ordinance got very little space in The Trib, so I only vaguely recall even hearing about it. Plus, I would imagine that most of those communities have a different reality than the city of SLO residents; namely, 5 cities is much closer to the SM Costco so they just go to SM and are glad the huge box is not in their back- yard; Paso folks don't have any CostCo to go to (I wouldn't make the 120 mile round trip myself, either), so they don't know what they are missing. '2'CostCo is a giant corporation, and the implication is that because of that fact, it should be kept out of SLO. This is ridiculous. We already have corporations far larger (than CostCo) in SLO: GM dealers, Chevron gas stations, Albertsons (Ralphs, Food For Less) multi-billion dollar food chains,etc. '3' How many square feet is the CostCo in SM? Do you know? Could you tell me? "4` Home many square feet is the new Home Depot in SLO? Do you know? Could you tell me? 'S'The Tribs headline was something like "SLO Says No to Big Box Stores". Somehow, people believe this headline! (I'm not saying that you do). Guess what? Home Depot is a big box store and we are getting it this year!!!!!!!!!!! The horse is out of the barn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!n The city and county of SLO failed us, but it is now reality!!!!!!!!!!!!! Big Boxes ARE IN THE CITY OF SLO!!!!!!!!!MU One thing is for certain: Home Depot WILL put some of our SLO retailers out of business within a year or two (at least one). I would bet big money on this being true. What do you think?On the other hand, I would bet a little bit(small money)that CostCo would NOT put any SLO Grocery Stores out of business, were it to come here. Obviously, since we already have Big Box stores coming, people like me would prefer that they be stores the we frequent, if have to have them! Is this so hard to understand? Sum it up this way: since they are coming, I want ones that I like!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! '6'What is going in next to Home Depot? Do you know? Will it be a "Big Box Store"? I'm guessing that it will be a 2nd big box store next to Home Depot. Does this also bother you? If it is a 2nd big box store (lets say Toys R Us), are you interested in an ordinance restricting retail sales of toys in buildings greater than xx,000 square feet to only 40%toys?What is the difference between a "toy restriction" and a "grocery restriction"? '7' I'm sure CostCo IS attacking this ordinance designed specifically to keep CostCo out (WalMart would never consider a store here with one so close by in AG). However, I have not seen any sign of it personally. I've received no mailers or email, and I am a CostCo member in SLO. Do you know what type of campaign they are waging? Do you know how expensive this campaign is? Please be specific in your answer. "8' Lets face it: this ordinance is designed to keep CostCo out of SLO. If you objected to big box stores, there would be an ordinance to keep big box stores out.That is NOT what we have here; it is an ordinance to keep CostCo out. This ordinance does NOT apply to ANY huge store! Only a huge store that dedicates "too much space"to selling groceries. `9'The statement that "it is CostCo's choice whether or not to come here is a distortion". It is analogous to the city asking you to practice law in your office, only with half the office space you now have. Could you practice law with an office only half the size you have now? (I only use this example since I've seen your office before). Of course you could. Would it be difficult? YES. Would it affect your enthusiasm for your work?YES. If you didn't have to (lets say you had an office just outside of city limits as well) would you? Or maybe you'd just stick with the roomy office just outside of town?Well, that is what CostCo is doing.They have a roomy location nearby that is not restricted, and they'd rather not be excessively cramped (corporately speaking, of course),just as you would not. '10' It has been my experience that most people in favor of CostCo (my neighbors and friends) not only live in SLO, but make the same periodic journey as I do to the SM CostCo. Do you have a count of people expressing opinions inside and outside the county? Could you share that count with me? •11' You say that"public policy should set corporate policy when it comes to land use°. My understanding is that the General Plan allows CostCo, as well as your own planning commission. Maybe I don't understand what public policy is? Please explain. CC: <asettle@slonet.org>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: "Stanley Saude" <s.saude@worldnet.att.net> To: <jmarx®slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 7:36 AM Subject: Costco Dear Councilperson Marx: Read your letter to the editor this morning and felt compelled to comment. The idea that the council would regulate the type of goods that is sold in a store is ridiculous on its face. Prior to your vote, I assumed you would vote down that item and simply limit the amount of area a store may have and not whether it is selling food in 40%. The fact that the City doesn't regulate any other items shows that this was clearly aimed at Costco. You say that other agencies have done the same, but you fail to list the agencies who haven't decided to pass such an ordinance or the number of times the City has . complained about policies of the County. The County is dumb most of the time but they are correct on this issue? Would Los Angeles be Los Angeles if you were to remove all the " drive through windows" and big box stores? Would San Luis Obispo be San Luis Obispo if we had "drive through windows" and big box stores and a population of only 20,000 people? You can not change your mind and Mayor Settle can't either for political reasons, those who are against Costco wouldn't allow you to. So the answer will be revisited in the election in 2002. See you then! CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulhollaand @ slocity.org> From: "Phyllis Mackaoui" <mack@surfari.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 8:41 AM Subject: Fw: IN FAVOR OF COSTCO -----Original Message----- From: Phyllis Mackaoui <mack@surfari.net> To: asettle@slocity.org <asettle@slocity.org> Date:Thursday, February 01, 2001 8:44 AM Subject: IN FAVOR OF COSTCO >588 Carmella Drive >Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 >February 1, 2001 >Mayor Settle: >This letter is to give my opinion on having a Costco store open in San Luis >Obispo. Although we live in Arroyo Grande, we work in San Luis Obispo, >and find it a nuisance to have to drive to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. >This usually would have to be done on a weekend, which takes away a lot of >time that could be used for more productive activities. It would be so >much handier to have Costco within easy reach. >Driving to Santa Maria takes away local money and taxes that could be kept >right here in town. The argument that having a Costco here would hurt >other grocery stores, is moot because if one drives to Santa >Maria you are not shopping at local stores anyway! >We understand that another vote will be coming up on February 6, so we take >this opportunity to urge you to >reconsider your vote and vote against an ordinance that is unfair to >consumers. >Sincerely, >Phyllis Mackaoui From: <MJenny2282@aol.com> To: <jmarx®slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 9:00 AM . Subject: AGAINST LIMITING ORDINANCE, IN FAVOR OF COSTCO Jan Marx: I am directing these remarks to you after reading your article in today's Tribune. I was somewhat surprised when I attended the January 16th city council meeting at your vote against the limiting ordinance. As the competent attorney I consider you to be I would have thought you would have considered it bad legislation regardless of how you feel about Big Box Stores. It is my opinion city staff,the city planning commission and the Chamber of Commerce made the correct recommendation to the council. It would be of benefit to the United Food &Commercial Workers Union rather than the public according to the Chamber of Commerce. I attended the Planning Commission meeting and felt it was intelligently reviewed. I too love San Luis Obispo's towntown area, but I agree with the Chamber this ordinance is bad legislation. While the Chamber is not supporting Costco in particular, they are not opposing it's construction. If you were to limit Costco from building you will deprive the city of revenue from the sale of taxable items at their store which could certainly be of benefit to SLO. A much smaller store,which you suggest, would not be as profitable for Costco and would not bring SLO the revenue which is part of the offset for allowing another Big Box Store in our city. I consider the new Ralphs, Cost Plus, and some of the other new stores in town also Big Box. PLEASE RECONSIDER YOUR VOTE which could assist many from the long drive to Santa Maria or a drive OVER THE GRADE which is difficult for many. Mary Jenny 2282 Exposition Drive SLO 93401 805/543-4311 CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> From: "Fred and Del Glenn"<fredelftnemain.com> To: "COUNCILMEMBER KEN SCHWARTZ" <kschwartzOslocity.org>, "COUNCILMEMBER JAN HOWELL MARX" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "COUNCILMEMBER CHRISTINE MULHOLLAND" <cmulholland®slocity.org>, "VICE MAYOR JOHN EWAN"<jewan@slocity.org>, "MAYOR ALLEN SETTLE"<asettle@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1,2001 11:26 AM Subject: COSTCO PLEASE VOTE NO ON THE PROPOSAL THAT RESTRICTS "BIG BOX " STORES GROCERY SPACE. FRED L. GLENN ARDEL M. GLENN JOHNSON AVE, SAN LUIS OBISPO From: "Ronald Matthews"<ronel.matt@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 7:05 PM Subject: Box Store Ordinance Dear Councilman Ewan, I attended the last meeting wherein the City Council voted to permanently discriminate against large sized stores including restricting the content of the stores in a really bizarre ruling related to the percentage of content of certain merchandise. I actually think that it might even be argued in court that such an ordinance was discriminatory in nature and possibly result in actions against the city. The Council ignored the comments of the general populace, who were present and spoke to the Council, instead listening to the special interest group representing the local Retail Clerks union. There are many positive features for this county to gain from a Costco coming to this town. Do not bother to state that this ordinance applies to all such stores, certainly this is true, however at this time and place it is most certainly directed against the Costco Wholesale Corporation. The only"Big Box Store" attempting to locate in San Luis Obispo. 1. The reduction of mileage to be driven by the, in excess of 38,000, current Costco customers who reside in this county and frequently drive to Santa Maria to shop. A potential reduction of 2,280,000 miles per trip saved can only reduce the pollution levels in the Central Coast area.The annual pollution savings represented by 20,000,000 miles not being driven by the current customers represents a truly serious and major consideration. 2.The revenue to be garnered by both the City of San Luis Obispo and the County is also not something to casually dismiss. Especially as the County is currently losing most if not all of its revenue from the Diablo Canyon Project. With an average per trip expenditure of$300 the sales per trip for the 38,000 customers represents$11,400,000 of sales for one trip each, given a 50 per cent average of taxable goods in each sale that yields$5,700,000 worth of taxable revenue, or in excess of$60,000,000 worth of taxable sales accrueing to the City each year the minimum revenue to the city would be in excess of $300,000. 3. My understanding of the project proposal is that Costco has offered to finance either part or all of the expansion project on Los Osos Valley Road between Madonna Road and the Auto Sales area.This is a project which has been desperately needed for many years and would be of definite benefit to the City of SLO and it's citizens. 4. Concerns regarding the pastoral beauty of the area can be best addressed by proper landscaping requirements, in addition to the fact that this area is currently one large parking lot/auto sales area on the opposite side of the road. It is zoned for large "Box type stores" and is currently in use by most of the major auto sales dealerships in San Luis Obispo.There seems to have been no real landscaping requirement for their placement in this location so even the landscaping requirement is of considerable debate as to legitimacy. 5. Further the Costco store in question represents approximately 100 fulitime and 100 part-time jobs for the San Luis Obispo Job market.This in tum represents and considerable amount of money being made by Costco which would remain in this community as wages earned. Again a positive impact. 6. Continual worry by the City Council about the possibility of a WallMart coming to town, can most certainly be addressed should WallMart even decide to attempt to come to San Luis Obispo.There is currently no Costco in this county while there are two WaIIMart's already in the county. It would be very simple, at the time they attempted to put in a location in San Luis Obispo, to prevent their putting in a store here.Justification for denial of such an application would be very simple based on their already considerable presence in this county. There are many more and very valid points which could be made,foremost among them is the fact that it is not fair, nor democatic,to mandate the percentage of which product may be carried in a certain store. To mandate that because a store is over a certain square footage that we are going to say: not more than 1 percent, 2 percent or even 5 percent may be non taxable items is simply not the free enterprise way. Protectionism nearly destroyed the US after World War I and certainly contributed to some of the events which led us into WW H.This would not be to that extreme but would certainly not be to the benefit of the general population of the city of San Luis Obispo. Please vote against the Ordinance limiting non-taxable sales footage percentages. It is not in this city's best interest. Yours truly, Ronald L. Matthews Ronald L. Matthews From: "Keith & Fran" <frankeith@tcsn.net> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slociity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 7:15 PM Subject: COSTCO If Slo City Council persists on denying Cosco a permit to open one of their terrific stores in Slo we feel they are making a big mistake!! We enjoy shopping at Cosco even tho we have to go to Santa Maria. How nice it would be to have a Cosco for the people in Slo and the surrounding Central and North Counties cities..We're sure the added revenue would be welcome to Slo city coffers.. All we ask is that the Slo City Council members reconsider their recent decision and permit a much needed Cosco in Slo.. Thank You, Keith and Frances Nelson Paso Robles, Calif E-Mail: frankeith@tcsn.net From: Eliza Nicholson <Inicholson@jps.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @jps.net>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kswartz@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:47 PM Subject: Costco We are writing to ask you to support the Costco project. This a popular project with most in the community, and certainly in our neighborhood. From an environmental perspective,consider that SLO has something like 5,000 people who shop at Costco. We will continue to do so if it stays in Santa Maria, but imagine all the wasted fossil fuels and other resources (and the air pollution that will result). A local Costco will make such waste unnecessary, provide a non polluting development, and jobs for locals. San Luis Obispo is noted for unique shops that particularly serve the tourists who visit us. A Costco would serve the people of the community and not impact these unique businesses. Cutting edge environmental and land use philosophies support local sufficiencies to avoid just such wastes of resources by unnecessary commutes, and the City would benefit from increased revenue which could be used to purchase open space-Why not re-think and vote to require a percentage of the tax revenues from Costco be used to purchase or maintain such resources? We encourage you to show openness and wisdom by being willing to consider a creative solution that would benefit the environment while servng the people of the community with a win-win solution. Please support Costco and don't pass the restriction on floor space; Otherwise the future would eventually bring us another housing tract or who knows what? Sincerely, Scott and Liza Nicholson 3629 Lawnwood Drive San Luis Obispo From: John &Altha Causa<beachbums70 @ webtv.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwart@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 7:02 AM Subject: Costco We go to Costco about once a month. While we are in Santa Maria we go to our favorite department store, Gottschalks. When we have completed our shopping we go to lunch. On the average we spend$150 while we are in Santa Maria. The tax on that is$10.50. Doesn't sound like much does it? Multiply that times all the other people that go to Santa Maria, and you will realize how much tax money is going to Santa Barbara County when it could stay right here in San Luis Obispo County. Just because you won't allow a Costco doesn't mean we will stop going to Santa Maria, in fact, we just may start doing more of our shopping there since you don't want us congesting your town. We live in Pismo Beach, so we have to go north or south to do most of our shopping except for groceries. Altha Causa From: Ronald Fischbach <Fisch nett @ webtv.net> To: <Asettle@slocity.org>, <Jewan@slocity.org>; <Jmanc@slocity.org>, <Kschwartz@slocity.org>, <Cmullholand@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 4:49 PM Subject: Costco We keep hearing about the environmental impact. Look at another side of the impact. We mean the impact on our monitary environment without . Costco, etc. Why should Santa Maria get that money. We like the idea of Costco in SLO. Thanks for listening. From: dellsworth@co.slo.ca.us> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 2:03 PM Subject: "Costco"ordinance Dear Councilmember Ewan, I know that most communication is scanned rather than reading every word, so let me state my feelings about the ordinance as simply as possible: COSTCO YES-ORDINANCE NO Sincerely, Thomas S. Ellsworth 2316 Banderole Court San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: Lois <lojo-slo@thegrid.net> To: <ASettle@SLOcity.org>, <KSchwartz@SLOcity.org>, <J Marx@ SLOcity.org>, <J Ewan@ SLOcity.org>, <CMulholland@SLOcity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 1:26 PM Subject: Our Vote For Costco To The City Council Members: As long time residents,tax payers and home owners in San Luis Obispo, I urge your support and a favorable vote for the Costco store on Los Osos Valley Road. The much needed tax dollars could perhaps repair the city streets& potholes, and help to relieve the overloaded schools. Note that anyone from the Los Osos area going to Santa Maria or to the future Atascadero Costco will be traveling the Los Osos Valley Road. Then consider that each new housing track will bring that many more families from out of town that will bring with them from 2 to 4 additional cars, depending on the number of teenagers and add to the over crowded schools, and they,too, could travel to Santa Maria to shop and leave their tax dollars there. The benefit from the extra tax dollars could also help with the much needed downtown parking for the students and the tourists that shop there. Thank you for your consideration. Joseph and Lois M. Silva 504 Cuesta Dr. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405-1107 C.A.Turner 1186 Madonna Rd. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 From: "Bennett Weiss" <bweiss @charter.net> To: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jearly@fe.sccoast.net>, <cmullholland@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 6:33 PM Subject: Fw: Costco -----Original Message ----- From: Bennett Weiss To: asettle@slocity.org Cc:jewan@slocity.org ; cmullholland@slocity.org ;jmarx@slocity.org ; kschwartz@slocity.org Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2001 6:31 PM Subject: Costco Mayor Settle, My wife,Tracy, and I are both residents of the city of San Luis Obispo, we both voted for you, and we would like to encourage you to allow the building of a Costco. On the evening news, we heard you say that you are concerned that many supporters of the project live outside the city. We are homeowners here and, like many on our street, make weekly"pilgrimages"to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. Costco is extraordinary in that so many people are willing to actually drive one hour round-trip just to shop there. When representatives of Costco came to the library on January 4,they were not met by a hostile crowd of anti "big box" protesters.They met a standing-room-only crowd of locals who were largely supportive, but concerned that proper attention should be paid to traffic concerns and store appearance. Most in the crowd wanted these concerns intelligently addressed. Few alluded to a preference to scrap the project entirely. Even the Tribune noted in an article the following day that locals seemed supportive. Before singling out Costco as a store that the people of SLO can't have, please consider how few stores there are that many of us would bother to actively encourage to come here in the first place. From: larry<fortpaul@pacbell.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 12:34 PM Mr. Ewan 1-31-2001 As a life long resident of this community, I don't normally write letters to the Editor, or our various political leaders but this time i feel I must. I don't want to make this note long winded, so I'll get to the point 1. 1 want costco herein S.L.O., (I think we need the sales tax revenue that would be generated and I for one don't want to have to drive over the grade to go to costco) 2. 1 think the ordinance proposed by the city limiting floor space for groceries in such stores is a bit over the top! It's not like any of these grocery stores are really local (except Scolari's....what ever happened to Williams Bros?) We need to stop passing such frivolous laws and ordinance's! Thank You for taking the time to read my views on this subject. Respectfully Larry R. Paulson FortPaul@pacbell.net From: vickie<vickiedv@pacbell.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31, 2001 1:26 PM Subject: Costco Mr. Ewan I have only lived in San Luis Obispo for one year. I moved here from a very small town. We knew the importance of keeping our tax revenues in our town. Even though everything was a little more expensive we tried to do whatever shopping we could in our own town,to keep the businesses going and helping out our friends and neighbors that owned those businesses. Even though Costco may not be owned by my neighbor, my tax dollars will be kept in the city where I live instead of to neighboring cities.The people of this city, that do go to Santa Maria to shop at Costco are not only shopping at Costco. They are most likely making a day of it and hitting the retail stores for clothing and household items and how about lunch or dinner while they are there. Our city is losing BIG BUCKS. I certainly hope you take a closer look at your decision. I, for one, believe it to be a very poor decision. I would love to see a Costco in San Luis Obispo. The more things we have to offer in our city,the better it is for all because, it will attract more people. Equalling more money. I would like to ask you, at this time to please reconsider your decision. In my opinion it will do more harm than good. We need to keep our money here, in our city. Not take it elsewhere. Concerned citizen Vickie Stevens vickiedv@pacbell.net From: "Matthew D. Herrera"<M-D-H@ rocketmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31,2001 2:11 PM Subject: Costco- Please Approve Dear Mr. Ewan; I hope you will make a sincere effort to reevaluate and lend even stronger support for the proposed Costco project in SLO. The voters are speaking. We want a Costco. To hid behind what appears to be an illegal ordinance not only divides this community, it also opens the City to probable expensive and damaging litigation. This City needs strong leadership. Leadership that supports what is demanded by the populous. It's time to do the right thing with respect to this issue. Sincerely; Matthew Herrera Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail -only$35 a year! http://personal.maii.yahoo.com/ From: Priscilla Reddick<cilyme@tcsn.neb To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 8:19 PM Subject: Costco I live in Paso Robles and would LOVE to see Costco closer- I drive the one hour each way to Santa Maria a couple of times/month to shop there. Wouldn't it be much better to have all that tax money in SLO County? Please make it possible for Costco to do business up here! Sincerely, Priscilla Reddick <cilyme@tcsn.net> From: "Robert Smalley' <rksmalle@msn.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org,jewan@slocity.org,jmarx@slocity.org, kschwartz@slocity.org, cm ulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 7:39 AM Subject: Costco SLO City Council I was raised in this city. I have lived here since 1952. 1 have seen much in the way of progress here and, for the most part, I feel it has been good for the City. I was disappointed with the Council's actions when you voted for the ordinance that excluded stores such as Costco from the City of San Luis Obispo. I do not believe, especially after observing the comments made by the Mayor and certain City Council Members,that the decision was based on the good of the City or those who reside therein. I believe that the decisions have been based more on pressure from Special Interest Groups and, quite possibly, the "I'm here now, so let us close the door and not let anyone else in!" mind set. The Mayor stated that he felt that the question was about evenly split with the residents of the City. So, based on that bit of unscientific information, he has decided to opt for the "keep them out"side. Well, I'm not so sure that the City Council really has a finger on the pulse of the residents. And, it sure would not be the first time that this City Council has totally ignored what the residents really want. There is already a"Big Box" store going in at the Los Osos Valley Rd. location. The"traffic" problem already exists and will exist regardless of the existence of Costco. But, on the other hand,the income for the City from allowing Costco in would be substantial. Keeping Costco out of the City will not bring those of us that travel elsewhere to a Costco to shop back to spend that money in the City. We will still go there. And, for your information, it does not stop us from going to the local stores for those items that we do not, or can not, get at Costco. If the items that I buy at Costco were available locally and competitive in price, I would shop here. They are not. I can't go downtown San Luis Obispo and obtain anything that I get from Costco. Please, step down from your"Ivory"towers and get in touch with the real world. We don't want to turn San Luis into another Santa Maria, but we don't want to have to go to Santa Maria(or any other town,for that matter)to be able to find what we need. Very, very sincerely, Robert Smalley 1712 Vicente Dr. San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 805-541-3902<br clear=all><hr>Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at<a h ref="http://explorer.msn.com">http://explorer.msn.com<ta><br></p> From: "Denny& Daphne Wheeler" <dwheele9 @ ix.netcom.com> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 8:48 AM Subject: Costco January 31, 2001 Dear Mayor Allen Settle and Members of the City Council: When I came here 44 years ago to live, San Luis Obispo was proud of it's reputation as the shopping center of the Central Coast. People came here from as far away as King City and Lompoc,just to shop, and maybe take in a movie. The sales tax generated helped to make this a financially healthy community, as well as a delightful place to live and to visit. We are in a changing world. We have discouraged keeping up with the times, in order to preserve our rural atmosphere. Droves of people still come here to work, but many of them drive to their places of abode to live and shop, thus creating the traffic problems we all dislike, but not spending their money. I find that I get irritated when I seethe increase in traffic, but I get even more irritated when I feel that we need to go to other communities to purchase many of our desired items We have a school district that is in horrible shape, partly due to discouraging business and the resultant lack of property and sales taxes.We need a balance between retail, light manufacturing, and residential properties.The addition of a Costco will help our kids. Any community that tells business what it can and cannot sell is akin to a communistic government. If you feel you are smarter than the entrepreneur, I invite you to go to Russia and see the terrible fix they got themselves into. I went into the new Ralph's Grocery Store the other day, and was amazed to find that in addition to groceries, they have auto parts, hardware, bicycles and parts, nursery items, pet supplies, televisions, drugs, and sporting goods. Did you tell them that they could or could not sell these items? In short, I think that you made a horrible mistake in limiting Costco's potential, and I invite you to reverse that decision. Dennis and Daphne Wheeler, San Luis Obispo CC: "City Council Member Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "City Council member Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "City Councilman Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Vice Mayor John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org> From: <PWooley4@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14,2001 11:22 AM Subject: (no subject) Vice Mayor John Ewan, I would like to see a Costco Wholesale built here in San Luis Obispo. I feel it would increase employment opportunities as well as revenue that this city loses to other cities. I am tired of having to travel to Santa Maria or Paso Robles to shop in stores that should be available here. I feel Costco is a better choice than a Home Depot or other hardware outlet. I hope you vote to allow them to build on the Froom Ranch property. Sincerely Paula Wooley From: "Cayse Babcock" <cayse @charter.net> To: "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland"<cmulholland@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Allen Settle" <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14, 2001 11:33 AM Subject: COSTCO I am writing to you as a voting citizen of San Luis Obispo. I am very strongly in favor of locating a COSTCO at the Froom Ranch property along with the Home Depot. I have been wasting precious time and gas driving to Santa Maria to do my shopping and shopping for our business. And when I go down to COSTCO I also patronize other stores in Santa Maria giving that city all my sales tax dollars instead of that money going to the city of SLO. I can't believe for one minute that you would be swayed by the grocery chains to not allow a COSTCO in our town. It's called competition!! The grocery stores will have to compete on a realistic level instead of holding us hostage to high grocery prices. We now have to drive (wasting fossil fuel and time, causing air pollution) out of the area to afford to shop. We are constantly forced to shop in the surrounding communities and give these other cities our tax dollars! How good is that for SLO!? There are 15,000 Costco cardholders in SLO who are driving to Santa Maria!! That's a huge number folks! That's a lot of voters and a lot of tax dollars. That's not even considering how many people from North County and Los Osos and Morro Bay will be coming to SLO to spend their money at our Costco. We cannot turn our noses up to that kind of revenue. Also to be taken into consideration is the number of people a Costco will employ at a good wage---up to 300 new jobs at a higher wage than the grocery unions pay! I also know this project is consistent with the City's general plan and designated as general commercial. I have spoken with numerous people from our local elementary school, our church and my"mom's support groups" (Parent Network & Parent Participation) as well as many of the 1000 soccer families. I have not heard one negative comment about bringing Costco to town. Everyone I spoke to was well in favor of Costco. We are families with children and a lot of expenses. We need a place we can afford to shop without wasting time and gas driving to Santa Maria. This ordinance that the grocery store chains and their unions are trying to have passed to keep Costco out is ridiculous. It takes away our right to decide which businesses we want in our community. "The proposed ordinance is about anti-consumerism and special interests. It has nothing to do with zoning or land use. It has nothing to do with protecting small businesses. It has everything to do with market share for supermarkets and their unions. Ultimately, it has to do with artificially maintaining higher grocery prices to protect the market share of a selfish but very strong industry lobby. The city regulates development through the existing General Plan, Zoning Regulations and development standards in order to protect citizens and the environment. Therefore, the proposed ordinance is unnecessary." How can you be held hostage to that kind of lobbying- how can you let the citizens of SLO be held hostage by that. I find it ludicrous to think you would even give consideration to that kind of blackmail. Let's have fair competition and bring the sales tax dollars to SLO. GIVE US A COSTCO AND PLEASE DON'T DELAY! Sincerely, Catherine B. Babcock From: <ChuckH2390@aol.com> To: <slott@thetribunenews.com>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14, 2001 1:30 PM Subject: Costco Dear Editor, My wife and I, who always punch our chads very carefully, are strongly in favor of the proposed Costco. Why should San Luis Obispo residents have to travel down the increasingly crowded 101 corridor to Santa Maria in order to enjoy the savings and unique benefits of Costco? In addition, we have to pay higher sales taxes,which Santa Barbara County is no doubt only too happy to collect. The SLO City Council has contrived to give our city one of the highest costs of living in the nation, despite the fact that many residents have low or fixed incomes (or both, if they happen to be government employees). The proposed ordinance is also a dishonest, shabby, and deceptive little piece of legislative crafting. At first it looks as though it might be designed to protect the big supermarkets: isn't it just like our City Council to be watching out for the little guys like Von's and Albertsons! On second glance, it looks as though it might actually be directed against outfits like Longs and Ralph's, since they both sell a lot of groceries along with their general merchandise. Who would guess what it is really directed against? In the interests of open government, I would like to propose the following rewording of the proposed ordinance: "We the City Council of San Luis Obispo, in order to keep prices high, establish increased taxes, insure additional fuel use, provide sales and property tax revenues for Santa Barbara County, promote the general welfare of everyone except our citizens, and secure the blessings of long scenic drives to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish that there shall be no Costcos." Charles Hagen San Luis Luis Obispo CC: <MARGARET50@aol.com> From: John R Sanders <jjandtt@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Jan 14, 2001 9:13 PM Subject: Costco Hi! I am writing to let you know how badly we want a Costco in San Luis. I plan trips to Santa Maria monthly, mainly to go to Costco. The only months I don't go all the way down there is when I go to Costco when I visit family in the Santa Cruz area. Either way I am spending outside of our County. I would much prefer keeping that money here at home where it could benefit my family directly. I believe Costco will bring more money into the city besides what is spent directly at the store itself. When I come down to San Luis (I live in Atascadero and make the trip at least a couple of times a week) I always combine other shopping with the trips. I make regular visits to Trader Joe's, Mervyn's, Gottschalks, Cost Plus, Sears and Big 5. 1 can guarantee I will be making trips specifically to shop at Costco. I have a 5th grader and a 1 st grader and am very active with many families in all sorts of activities. I personally don't know of anyone who doesn't express a desire to have a Costco nearby. A Costco in San Luis won't take any of my dollars away from the smaller stores in town. I already shop at those and Costco and being able to do so in the same city will just make life easier for me. Please, please let us have a Costco! Thanks for taking the time to read this, Jennine &John Sanders GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software, visit: http://di.www.juno.com/get/tagj. From: <MDonati486@aol.com> To: <Jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Jan 14, 2001 9:55 PM Subject: (no subject) Dear Councilmember, I am writing you to let you know I am in favor of adding a new Costco in the Los Osos Valley Road area. Please remember that most people supporting a new Costco have been shopping the Santa Maria area and sending tax dollars to improve their area. Lets change that outcome and start keeping our local dollars here. Sincerely, Mike Donati Laura Nieblas Sadie Nieblas CC: <cmulhoIland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> From: <MDonati486@aol.com> To: <Jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14, 2001 9:55 PM Subject: (no subject) Dear Councilmember, I am writing you to let you know I am in favor of adding a new Costco in the Los Osos Valley Road area. Please remember that most people supporting a new Costco have been shopping the Santa Maria area and sending tax dollars to improve their area. Lets change that outcome and start keeping our local dollars here. Sincerely, Mike Donati Laura Nieblas Sadie Nieblas CC: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> From: Jeanette Clements <olliesee@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 10:17 AM Subject: Costco We would very much like to see a Costco built here in San Luis Obispo. Obvious benefits: taxes, and employment for many people. It would bring people here to shop, and they might well spend money elsewhere-other stores, a gas station, a restaurant. In addition, it would keep in town people like us (and there are many of us) who travel to Santa Maria periodically to shop at the Costco there. We would be saving gas and time. The area where it is to be built is NOT a beautiful area; a nicely-designed building would not be a blight but rather would be a benefit to the landscape. Just because something is man-made does not automatically make it less attractive than a field or a brown hill. We urge you to think of the many people who would love to be able to save money by buying Costco's many bargains here at home. Thank you. William and Jeanette Clements, San Luis Obispo (011iesee@yahoo.com) Do You Yahoo!? Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. hftp://personal.mail.yahoo.com/ From: <MJenny2282@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 9:57 AM Subject: AGAINST limiting ordinance,follow staff recommendations This Email is to express my request you to vote AGAINST the proposed ordinance limiting to 5 percent the floor space for non taxable items in retail warehouse stores on non taxable items. It is my suggestion you follow the recommendations of the city planning staff and planning commission. I attended a recent meeting of the planning commission and they outlined many reasons why this could be harmful to the City of San Luis Obispo. Since I am in FAVOR OF THE BUILDING OF A COSTCO next to the Home Depot location it would personally be helpful tome. I do not like to make the 64 mile round trip and spend my tax dollars helping Santa Barbara County when the income from the sale of the non taxable items could be used to great advantage by the City of SLO. Please follow staff recommendations and vote AGAINST this ordinance. Mary Jenny 2282 Exposition Drive SLO 93401 From: <ChuckH2390®aol.com> To: <slott@thetribunenews.com>, <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org kschwartz®slocity.org> Date: Sun, Jan 14,2001 1:30 PM Subject: Costco Dear Editor, My wife and I, who always punch our chads very carefully,are strongly in favor of the proposed Costco. Why should San Luis Obispo residents have to travel down the increasingly crowded 101 corridor to Santa Maria in order to enjoy the savings and unique benefits of Costco? In addition, we have to pay higher sales taxes, which Santa Barbara County is no doubt only too happy to collect. The SLO City Council has contrived to give our city one of the highest costs of living in the nation, despite the fact that many residents have low or fixed incomes (or both, if they happen to be government employees). The proposed ordinance is also a dishonest, shabby, and deceptive little piece of legislative crafting. At first it looks as though it might be designed to protect the big supermarkets: isn't it just like our City Council to be watching out for the little guys like Von's and Albertsons! On second glance, it looks as though it might actually be directed against outfits like Longs and Ralph's, since they both sell a lot of groceries along with their general merchandise. Who would guess what it is really directed against? In the interests of open government, I would like to propose the following rewording of the proposed ordinance: "We the City Council of San Luis Obispo, in order to keep prices high, establish increased taxes, insure additional fuel use, provide sales and property tax revenues for Santa Barbara County, promote the general welfare of everyone except our citizens, and secure the blessings of long scenic drives to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish that there shall be no Costcos." Charles Hagen San Luis Luis Obispo CC: <MARGARET50@aol.com> From: "Cayse Babcock"<cayse @charter.net> To: "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland"<cmulholland@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Allen Settle" <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Jan 14, 2001 11:33 AM Subject: COSTCO I am writing to you as a voting citizen of San Luis Obispo. I am very strongly in favor of locating a COSTCO at the Froom Ranch property along with the Home Depot. I have been wasting precious time and gas driving to Santa Maria to do my shopping and shopping for our business. And when I go down to COSTCO I also patronize other stores in Santa Maria giving that city all my sales tax dollars instead of that money going to the city of SLO. I can't believe for one minute that you would be swayed by the grocery chains to not allow a COSTCO in our town. It's called competition!! The grocery stores will have to compete on a realistic level instead of holding us hostage to high grocery prices. We now have to drive (wasting fossil fuel and time, causing air pollution) out of the area to afford to shop. We are constantly forced to shop in the surrounding communities and give these other cities our tax dollars! How good is that for SLO!? There are 15,000 Costco cardholders in SLO who are driving to Santa Maria!! That's a huge number folks! That's a lot of voters and a lot of tax dollars. That's not even considering how many people from North County and Los Osos and Morro Bay will be coming to SLO to spend their money at our Costco. We cannot turn our noses up to that kind of revenue. Also to be taken into consideration is the number of people a Costco will employ at a good wage--up to 300 new jobs at a higher wage than the grocery unions pay! I also know this project is consistent with the City's general plan and designated as general commercial. I have spoken with numerous people from our local elementary school, our church and my"mom's support groups" (Parent Network& Parent Participation) as well as many of the 1000 soccer families. I have not heard one negative comment about bringing Costco to town. Everyone I spoke to was well in favor of Costco. We are families with children and a lot of expenses. We need a place we can afford to shop without wasting time and gas driving to Santa Maria. This ordinance that the grocery store chains and their unions are trying to have passed to keep Costco out is ridiculous. It takes away our right to decide which businesses we want in our community. "The proposed ordinance is about anti-consumerism and special interests. It has nothing to do with zoning or land use. It has nothing to do with protecting small businesses. It has everything to do with market share for supermarkets and their unions. Ultimately, it has to do with artificially maintaining higher grocery prices to protect the market share of a selfish but very strong industry lobby. The city regulates development through the existing General Plan, Zoning Regulations and development standards in order to protect citizens and the environment. Therefore, the proposed ordinance is unnecessary." How can you be held hostage to that kind of lobbying-how can you let the citizens of SLO be held hostage by that. I find it ludicrous to think you would even give consideration to that kind of blackmail. Let's have fair competition and bring the sales tax dollars to SLO. GIVE US A COSTCO AND PLEASE DON'T DELAY! Sincerely, Catherine B. Babcock From: <PWooley4@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Jan 14,2001 11:22 AM Subject: (no subject) Vice Mayor John Ewan, I would like to see a Costco Wholesale built here in San Luis Obispo. I feel it would increase employment opportunities as well as revenue that this city loses to other cities. I am tired of having to travel to Santa Maria or Paso Robles to shop in stores that should be available here. I feel Costco is a better choice than a Home Depot or other hardware outlet. I hope you vote to allow them to build on the Froom Ranch property. Sincerely Paula Wooley From: John R Sanders <jjandit@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14, 2001 9:13 PM Subject: Costco Hi! I am writing to let you know how badly we want a Costco in San Luis. I plan trips to Santa Maria monthly, mainly to go.to Costco. The only months I don't go all the way down there is when I go to Costco when I visit family in the Santa Cruz area. Either way I am spending outside of our County. I would much prefer keeping that money here at home where it could benefit my family directly. I believe Costco will bring more money into the city besides what is spent directly at the store itself. When I come down to San Luis (I live in Atascadero and make the trip at least a couple of times a week) I always combine other shopping with the trips. I make regular visits to Trader Joe's, Mervyn's, Gottschalks, Cost Plus, Sears and Big 5. 1 can guarantee I will be making trips specifically to shop at Costco. I have a 5th grader and a 1 st grader and am very active with many families in all sorts of activities. I personally don't know of anyone who doesn't express a desire to have a Costco nearby. A Costco in San Luis won't take any of my dollars away from the smaller stores in town. I already shop at those and Costco and being able to do so in the same city will just make life easier for me. Please, please let us have a Costco! Thanks for taking the time to read this, Jennine&John Sanders GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software, visit: http://di.www.juno.com/get/tagj. From: Jeanette Clements<olliesee@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 10:17 AM Subject: Costco We would very much like to see a Costco built here in San Luis Obispo. Obvious benefits:taxes, and employment for many people. It would bring people here to shop, and they might well spend money elsewhere-other stores, a gas station, a restaurant. In addition, it would keep in town people like us (and there are many of us)who travel to Santa Maria periodically to shop at the Costco there. We would be saving gas and time. The area where it is to be built is NOT a beautiful area; a nicely-designed building would not be a blight but rather would be a benefit to the landscape. Just because something is man-made does not automatically make it less attractive than a field or a brown hill. We urge you to think of the many people who would love to be able to save money by buying Costco's many bargains here at home. Thank you. William and Jeanette Clements, San Luis Obispo (011iesee@yahoo.com) Do You Yahoo!? Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/ From: <GLibby8414@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 3:14 PM Subject: No Subject Dear Members of the San Luis Obispo City Council : For more than 12 years my family has shopped at Costco in Santa Maria. Obviously we are in favor of having a Costco built in San Luis Obispo.There are several points in favor of this addition to San Luis: a• 0 Tax revenue. I would prefer to spend my salary earned as a resident in San Luis Obispo County, rather than Santa Barbara County. As 0 Job creation. I believe that 300 jobs that may be opened for this community that pay better than minimum wage. & 0 Lower prices. I believe there are many families and individuals in San Luis Obispo County who would benefit from having a low-cost place to shop. A* 0 Road improvements. Congestion on Los Osos Valley Road between 101 and Madonna Roads would be alleviated if the developer of the Costco property pays for the upgrade to this section of LOVR. a• o Energy-savings and pollution reduction. There are more than 15,000 Costco members who live in San Luis Obispo County who would no longer have to travel 60 miles round-trip to Santa Maria to shop and save money. a• 2 Shareholder value. I believe a significant number of those who would shop at Costco are also shareholders in the company. Growing revenue for this company will help increase personal wealth and retirement savings. I prize the small-town feeling of San Luis Obispo as much as others and feel that Costco would be a positive addition to our city, not a negative. I look with disfavor on legislation from the council that would reject big-box businesses without consideration or try to legislate how they conduct their business. For the record, I am a Democrat, I voted for you in the last election and I live near the proposed Costco site. I urge you to vote in favor of the Costco proposal when it it submitted to the city council. Sincerely, George P. Libby SLO resident From: Phil Gray<pgray@midstate-cal.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 3:29 PM Subject: Let Costco In! Dear Mr. Ewan, Please don't let the big supermarkets and the grocery workers' union control what businesses come into the city--That's undemocratic! Costco pays more than their union members earn, so Costco employees don't want the union. And the supermarkets don't want the competition. Their response is to try to fool the City Council into keeping Costco out. Costco will be a real benefit to the city: It will bring needed sales tax to the city that now escapes to Santa Maria It will bring new, good-paying jobs, with benefits, to the community It will provide merchandise at lower prices for local retailers, and local consumers Auto traffic will be reduced because thousands of trips each year to Santa Maria will be avoided The Chamber of Commerce opposes this unfair new law. The Planning Commission saw through the phony arguments of the big markets and their unions-- surely the Council will, too! Thank you for voting AGAINST this law, and FOR our citizens! Phil Gray 1320 Archer St., San Luis Obispo 93401 From: "Grant Himebaugh" <Ghimebau@rb3.swrcb.ca.gov> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 4:16 PM Subject: Please Say No to the Grocery Unions at the January 16 Hearing Dear Vice-Mayor Ewan: My wife and I are homeowners in San Luis Obispo. We are emailing to voice our concern that the city may adopt the grocery union worker sponsored ordinance to restrict competition from non-union stores. Whether one desires "Big Box"stores in San Luis is one issue. (I would actively support a Costco, yet actively oppose a Walmart.) Though we believe strongly that categorically ruling out all "Big Box" competition does a disservice to the people of San Luis. We already have such a great discrepancy between income and cost of living. Let's do our best to relieve some of the cost of living aspects, while preserving our downtown's viability. The two goals are definitely obtainable. We know you can do this by ultimately allowing a more upscale Big Box store such as Costco, which will not only customize/improve the appearance of their store, but will also not present direct competition to a large number of smaller stores as Wal Mart or similar stores would. Costco's selection, hours, customer service and convenience are too limited-Walmart's is not. Our neighborhood is very tight-knit, and I know our neighbors support a Costco, yet very few other large stores in our city. Please vote against any ordinance to categorically limit the size of food sale areas within a store. Thank you, Grant Himebaugh and Lida Tan From: Marie Stockwell <marniemarniemarnie@yahoo.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 4:33 PM Subject: COSTCO IN SLO Hello, Please forgive my lack of protocol in writing regarding this issue. This is the first time I have taken the time to do anything but vote. I feel very strongly that a Costco would only benefit SLO and it's citizens. Please do whatever you can to support Costco becoming a reality here. Thank you Marie Stockwell 541-7539 Do You Yahoo!? Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. http://personal.maii.yahoo.com/ From: <ddotson @ calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15,2001 5:37 PM Subject: Costco Dear Vice Major John Ewan: I am writing in regard to the proposal for the new Costco. I think we should have a Costco here because it would keep our tax revenue local. Also, it is hard enough for us locals to make ends meet with the high prices that we have to pay at the local grocery stores. I think it would also help reduce some of the pollution. Thank you. Dianne Dotson. From: "Heather Kelley" <heathkelley@cmalbums.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 6:27 PM Subject: Costco cc:John Ewan, Christine Mulholland,Jan Marx, Ken Schwartz Dear Mayor Settle, I am writing to you regarding the Costco coming to San Luis Obispo. I am totally in favor of this. Currently I drive to Santa Maria to go to Costco. This upsets me because it is in Santa Barbara County which has a higher tax rate then we do, and this also means that my money is going to Santa Barbara county instead of our own. I also think it would be good to bring them here because of all the jobs it will bring. I know a few people that have worked for Costco, they are a good employer and they pay their employees well. They also do a lot for the communities that they are in. I don't think that it will take away from the businesses here because people are already driving from SLO to Santa Maria now to go to Costco, and in turn going to other shops down there and making a day of it. If we allow it to come to SLO then people will stay in town and shop at our stores! Please allow Costco to come to SLO we have been waiting for this for a long time. (I have been a Costco member since 1994) Thank you for your consideration of this matter. Sincerely, a voting citizen, Heather Kelley P.S. I did vote for you in the last election and will be watching how you decide to keep in mind for the next election. CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@ slocity.org> From: <Ladolcel @aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 7:11 PM Subject: Costco Dear Vice Mayor Jeff Ewan: am writing to ask you to please support the Costco ordinance. I was bom and raised in San Luis Obispo. My husband works for our local t.v. station and I am an elementary school teacher. As you are aware, San Luis Obispo is a very expensive place to live especially for those of us who are middle income. My family drives once a month to Costco in Santa Maria to purchase good quality products and food items for considerably less money than we would pay here. For those of us who must stretch our dollars, we depend upon Costco to help us with our grocery bills. Please remember there are 15,000 of us in San Luis Obispo who have a Costco membership. Please support the Costco ordinance! Thank you, Marisa Teel San Luis Obispo, CA From: "akhslo" <akhslo@email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 8:03 PM Subject: Fw: Costco -----Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday,January 15, 2001 7:55 PM Subject: Costco Yep, here is another for the Costco unit! Even as a downtown business person, I think it will be a boon for . the town. Given all the pro's, such as great wage base, number of employee hirings, proven stability of the company, lessening of our 35 mile drives to Santa Maria, etc., it seems only right to give such a company the right of free trade, without any restrictive requirements put on them that would not be put on others. With the extra tax base and the many extra shoppers drawn from the five cities, Atascadero and Paso areas , we can only do better here in San Luis Obispo. If Costco draws them to the area instead of Santa Maria, I WILL get my share! Thank You, Keith Hamilton-Hamilton Estate Jewelry From: "akhslo" <akhslo @email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 8:17 PM Subject: Fw: Costco -----Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday, January 15,2001 8:12 PM Subject: Costco Dear Mr. Mayor, As a current COSTCO member, i am very much in favor of the new unit being built on Los Osos Valley Road. With it will come employment, incomes, taxes, LESS pollution over a 35 mile drive to Santa Maria, and a draw to our city of the extra 15,000 to 20,000 customers who now go South every month. My understanding is that some of the council is looking at applying a special restriction against COSTCO based on its merchandise and store usage.This I believe to be very unfair. Please use your best judgement for our town, and allow a very productive and good neighbor into our retail environment.We will all be pleased, I'm sure,with the results it will give. Thank you, Shane Rouse' 532 Leff St. San Luis Obispo, Cal. (third generation local girl!) From: "Fran Edwards" drane@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 8:28 PM Subject: Fw: In favor of Costco on LOVR Dear Vice Mayor John Ewan. For more than thirty years my family and my friends have shopped at Costco in Santa Maria. I spoke to Mr. Cochran when he was the head of the downtown Business Association many years ago with my concerns that our money was going to Santa Maria . Obviously we are in favor of having a Costco built in San Luis Obispo. I appreciate the look and feel of a small town. I appreciate the City making every effort to keep our town something special that we can be proud of-however,we are no longer a small town. Those "big box" stores you refer to have already been allowed into our County. Such as Wal Mart, Office Depot, Vons, Ralph's, and Cost Plus (World Market). It is time we let Costco into SLO and their location on LOVR is a perfect location. I believe Costco will have a positive affect on our community, not a negative one. It will bring many jobs to our community, revenue in the way of sales tax (which is now going to Santa Barbara County) and an increase in our property tax. This might help to offset some of the tax revenue we have or will be losing from the Diablo Power Plant. Many store owners are worried and to that I say that Santa Maria stores have survived. We have been taking our dollars to Santa Maria already and that won't stop if the Costco isn't built. Also,while we are in Santa Maria shopping at Costco, we do other shopping that if there was a Costco here, those dollars might remain in this county. I look with disfavor on legislation from the council that would reject this request to build a Costco on LOVR or try to restrict or limit what they can do or sell. I am a property owner on High Street and have been and will continue to be an active voter. I have lived in this County since I was two years old. I urge you to vote in favor of the Costco proposal and not limit what it can do or sell when it is submitted to the city council. Sincerely Frances L. Edwards SLO resident/voter From: "akhslo" <akhslo@email.msn.com> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 8:29 PM Subject: Fw: COSTCO -----Original Message----- From: akhslo To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Monday, January 15, 2001 8:22 PM Subject: COSTCO Sir: As a COSTCO cardholder, and several times a month visitor to the Santa Maria store, I think that it would behoove us all to allow the new COSTCO to erect their store here. As a"minimum wage" person, I especially like the idea of their beginning wage structure, and will be among the first to apply for one of their positions. I also think that the restrictive provision I have heard about should not be applied to COSTCO, as I believe that is very much in restraint of trade and not fair to what can be a vedry good neighbor for us all. Please do consider COSTCO as a viable and contributing member of our community, one which will give us taxes, employment and good service with their products, all to the benefit of San Luis Obispo. Thank You, James L. Dove 532 1/2 Leff St. San Luis Obispo, Cal. 549-8348 From: <Rgholland@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15,2001 11:22 PM Subject: Costco Mayor Allen Settle Vice Mayor John Ewan Councilmember Christine Mulholland Councilmember Jan Howell Marx Councilmember Ken Schwartz To City Council members: I am unable to attend the meeting of January 16th but I would like to let you know that I fully support the addition of Costco to our community. I also strongly support the complete,full and normal range of all their goods and services. Thank you Bonnie Holland 3921 Carissa Court San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 e-mail rgholland@aol.com CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@ slocity.org> From: Bains David<dbains8@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 7:53 AM Subject: Lets bring Costco In Hello, I have just a few brief comments about the proposed Costco coming to San Luis Obispo. I am in favor of Costco building in the proposed location for the following reasons: 1) 1 like the idea of the larger stores being located in one area, away from the downtown and historic areas of town,yet easily accessible from the freeway. 2)With San Luis Obispo County having the 6th highest housing cost in the united states, and having lower wages than other high rent areas, like San Jose or Los Angeles, anything that helps locals save money is welcomed. 3) Costco pays their employees very well.This means the new warehouse will proved not only new jobs, but new jobs that pay a decent wage. In general, I don't feel "big box stores" are a detractor to the local, downtown businesses. When tourists come to town,they wont'go to Costco;they have one at home.They will go to our charming downtown area to shop at stores like Atmospheres, Central Coast Surf, or Boo Boo Records. When I go shopping, I choose to shop downtown or drive to Paso to go to Target for very different reasons. I shop downtown for unique items I am only likely to find downtown, or just to wander around and enjoy the 'scene.' I got to Target to save money and have a larger selection. Personally, I don'tthink the two compete with each other. Instead, I think they complement each other. Again,this is just my opinion, but wanted to go on record as being supportive of Costco building in the proposed location. Oh, and I think attempting to limit the store to less than 5%groceries would be unfair. Some of the best deals at Costco are the food buys! Thanks for your time, David Bains Cayucos, CA From: <Seasideshirley@aol.com> To: <asettle@slonet.org>, <jewan®ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 8:06 AM Subject: Box Store Ord. Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, Please vote against the big box ordinance today. Please approve a Costco in our area. Hal &Shirley Gilbert Los Osos, CA. From: <Slopeter@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16,2001 8:12 AM Subject: (no subject) Honorable mayor and members of the city council I'm sure the importance and impacts of the decisions you will make at tonight's meeting is not lost on you. I wish to make my position known. I know this is a tough one and I've no doubt those on both sides of the issues have the true interests of the city at heart. First the Prado Road alignment: Lord how I hate second guessing. This matter was decided in February, and to date more than$100,000 has been spent based on that decision. as vice chair of the parks and rec. comm. I have studied all three proposals. If I were to act selfishly,the Industrial Way option would be best because of my position with Goodwill on Industrial Way. However, I am convinced the northern alignment is the best solution for all the reasons stated by city staff and others. This matter has been discussed at length by the Parks& Rec. Comm. and we have voted to recommend the council do nothing which delays the project. I personally believe that which ever route for Prado Road is chosen, the council should take no action which delays development of the sports fields, or adds additional costs to the project. We cannot continually second guess previous decisions, even with a change in council members. Please act decisively and lets get this project moving! Also, I strongly oppose any measure which inhibits the open market, and competition. To limit nontaxable sales space is to me borderline unconstitutional. Competition is healthy and with creative marketing and a cooperative spirit, there is no reason why small retailers cannot survive, and even thrive among the giant box stores. I find it interesting that I will run into more friends, neighbors, and familiar faces from as far away as Paso Robles on each trip to Costco in S.M.than I do in our own downtown.And of course while there, we often take in a movie, dine and shop at other nearby stores. I've lived in SLO more than 30 years and during that time watched as millions of tax dollars, and jobs, went to S.M. It is clear the majority of SLO residents want Costco and I hope the council listens to the majority instead of the more vocal minority. Thank you for your service and consideration of my opinions Respectfully Peter Dunan CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: KENNETH HARTMAN <KENHARTMAN@webtv.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 8:58 AM Subject: Costco Dear Council Members, My wife& I drive 30 miles to Santa Maria to shop at Costco, because there is no such facility any closer. We would prefer leaving our money in San Luis Obispo, but we have no choice.That is the reason why we think you should approve Costco building here in San Luis Obispo.There are 15,000 more people like us that drive to Santa Maria and leave their money there, instead of spending their money here. We also shop other stores while we are there, and I am sure some of the other 15,000 people do the same thing.We feel that having a Costco built here would be an asset to the community. They also contribute a lot to local charities. We would appreciate it if you would give this some consideration. Thank You, Mr& Mrs Kenneth Hartman 3960 S Higuera#169 San Luis Obispo, Ca 93401 CC: <jewan@slocity.org> From: Gary<ggrannem @ calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 9:27 AM Subject: Allow the Costco store in San Luis Obispo without restrictions Allow the Costco store in San Luis Obispo without restrictions! To: San Luis Obispo City Council 16 January 2001 We are for allowing Costco to build and operate without the proposed city ordinance on limits of thier items they can have forsale. Please consider the following: 1. City government should not become involved in line item management of store inventories. 2.The UCFW is using government to protect the supermarkets share and limit competition. 3. If Costco is restricted to 5%floor area for food, then restrict grocery stores to 5% nonfood items. 4. We are members of Costco and shop there because of the savings and will continue to do so! 5. Help a 22 year resident of San Luis Obispo save TIME, MONEY and the ENVIROMENT. 6. Bring our tax money back into this county. Thanks for reading this. Gary Granneman Joyce Granneman Vista Lago, SLO CC: "ggrannem@calpoly.edu" <ggrannem@calpoly.edu>, Joyce Granneman <jegranneman @ earth[in k.net> From: "Carol' <cripp @charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 9:53 AM Subject: Costco Sirs and Madames: My husband and I would like to go on record as supporting allowing Costco to be established in Sand Luis Obispo. We are long time residents of SLO (since 1958) and have often made the trip to Santa Maria to shop at Costco. When one considers the many trips made by many SLO citizens to take advantage of Costco in Santa Maria, it would seem prudent to eliminate that unnecessary travel and pollution. We do not believe it would be any danger to local "Mom and Pop" stores of any genre. We urge you to allow Costco to come to SLO. Thank you for your time. Herman and Carol Ripp From: "Chuck" <homeworkerC�_ calinet.cofi> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16'2001 ,10:21:AM Subject: big-box stores Mr..Vice Mayor, I supportthe presence of a big box_stores in.the county. Prices are getting to high for the elderly and low income citiiens. Thank You, Chuck Kemp 461-5461 From: <LUANAC@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 10:22 AM Subject: Support for Costco Gentlemen: We live in San Luis Obispo and we are e-mailing you to let you know that my husband and I support the new Costco in SLO. We drive down to Santa Maria every 4-5 weeks to load up on grocery supplies. We also purchase gifts and items for the house. We,too, do not want the Mom and Pop stores to go out of business; however, we feel that competition is good for the marketplace. We tried to purchase two cameras from a local camera store the last shopping weekend before Christmas and were unable to find a store that was open after 6:00 p.m. (quite unusual for any store the last full weekend before Christmas). When we finally were able to make it to the store during the week before Christmas and during regular business hours, we were told they did not have the products (they were "just'out) and our best bet was to go to Costco or to shop on the Internet. We obtained one camera on the Internet and the other was purchased at a small store in Seattle. In speaking with the employees at Talls Camera at Bellevue.Square,they found that they had to compete price-wise with the on-line stores and their customer service had to be excellent in order to maintain their customer base. They did a great job! We are definitely in favor of Costco and feel that SLO would receive a significant increase in tax dollars if everyone in SLO County who drives to Costco in Santa Maria would spend their money at Costco in SLO. Sincerely, Luana M. Campbell From: <TGreen966@aol.com> To: <Cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 11:38 AM Subject: Prado-Costco grew up in this town and have never written a letter to the city council members but I would like to see some real long term planning instead of just reacting to current problems. First-please don't change the Prado Road alignment, If it goes to Tank Farm the intersection at Broad will be a congestion nightmare. I still can't believe that it isn't connecting at Industrial Way so someday it would be connected to the other side of town. Also I hope will vote down the retail space issue. I believe that we need a Costco somewhere in the county. I would like to see it at the Los Osos Road location because of access to the freeway. It also means that that road will have to be enlarged for better traffic flow. Thank you, Don &Terry Green CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmanc@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> From: "rcholc"<rcholc@gateway.net> To: "Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Dave Romero"<dromero®slocity.org>, "Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 12:39 PM Subject: Prado Road Extension Meeting Date: 1-16-01 Business Item #2 Re: Prado Road Extension Honorable Mayor and City Council Members: In February of last year RQN supported the Johnson Avenue neighborhood in their quest to maintain the southern alignment for the extension of Prado Road and to stop it at Broad Street.The council stopped the Prado Road extension at Broad Street, however, adopted a northern alignment,that was requested by staff.We disagree with that decision . We urge the council to: a.. Revisit this matter, considering the alternative routes that have been suggested. b.. Request staff to prepare an EIR before any further decisions are made. c.. Consider the old adage: "Haste makes Waste". Respectfully submitted, /s/ Cydney Holcomb Chairperson, RQN CC: "Lee Price" <Iprice@slocity.org> .From: Gordie Hayduk<G Hayduk999 @earth link.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 12:45 PM Subject: Costco YES! Greetings Vice-Mayor John Ewan: GORDIE HAYDUK, A citizen of San Luis Obispo since 1974 and a Costco Member since their arrival in Santa Maria. I'LL BE BRIEF-- it's time to make Costco Wholesale a part of our local business community. The tax revenue and employment monies generated from this entity are regularly being 'lost'to another city and county. Bring that revenue and money back to San Luis Obispo. AN ISSUE FOR myself --and many other citizens too- is the regular inconvenience of round-trip driving to Santa Maria, and its attendent waste of gas. It's almost beyond comprehension. AS MY REPRESENTATIVE at the city level, please do whatever is necessary to approve Costco Wholesale as a local business in a timely manner. Say YES for Costco Wholesale. Thank you. Cordially, Gordie Hayduk Certified Webmaster' UCSB 1997 805 543-4200 Voice ` San Luis Obispo Countys FIRST Certified Webmaster From: "Vickie Backman" <vbackm an@ charter.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 3:55 PM Subject: January 16 Mtg: Public Hearing Comments on Ordinance on Floor Space City Council members: I am a ten year resident of SLO and a 25 year resident of SLO County. My children were bom here, and are in school here, or will be some day. I care about this town, its people, and its environment, and that is why I must comment on your proposed actions. I have talked with many of my neighbors, and they all shared my concern on this issue. The anti-Costco ordinance limiting types of merchandise that "warehouse" stores can sell should be rejected. I am amazed that the city council would consider such an anti-environmental and anti-resident proposal. The proposal is anti-environmental since it results in greatly increased auto emissions. Thousands of SLO city residents currently make monthly sojourns to COSTCO to buy food and other items at bargain prices. These people are driving their SUVs, large trucks, and vans 70 miles or more round trip, wasting their own precious time on the commute, and polluting every city they pass through. The proposal is anti-resident since it attempts to maintain an artificially high cost-of-living in SLO. Why can't we have reasonably priced shopping here? Do you really feel the need to protect the small,family run grocery stores in town such as Vons, Albertson's and Ralph's? Who are you kidding? COSTCO does not compete with small shops, and their extra large items and limited selection are not for everyday shopping. I have a baby, and diapers and wipes from COSTCO are saving us at least$20 every month. Most residents of SLO, including the students, are leaving town at least once a month to shop at Costco, K-Mart,Wal-Mart, or Target. Do you have any idea how much sales tax money you are throwing away? I do not believe it is the council's job to look over developer's shoulders and approve their lessees. Stores come and go over time. I have seen Korbs, Sears, Penney's, and Riley's all leave downtown, and seen Beno's (and many others)come and go at Madonna Mall. Products come and go too. Our downtown has done very well, and we can be proud of the mix of local and national stores we have. The Copeland project was a great success, and has given downtown a new lease on life. When the council tries to get involved we have terrible disasters, such as the Gottschalks/Embassy Suite travesty. The council needs to concern itself with the overall size and appearance of proposed developments, and consider their physical impacts on infrastructure, and get out of the marketing side of the stores. We do not live in a communist country, although some council actions seem to suggest it at times. Stop trying to legislate which stores belong here and what they can sell. Start working on the city greenbelt and infrastructure. Vickie Backman . Poppy Lane San Luis Obispo From: <JDCole1997@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 16, 2001 5:09 PM Subject: costco Hello, My wife and I just wanted to express our wish that you vote to allow Costco to be developed on the Froom Ranch. I know that my wife and I both go to Costco and Home Depot quite often to make large purchases. I would much rather see our sales tax dollars support San Luis Obispo, vs. Santa Maria. am a third generation native of the City of San Luis Obispo, and I have never seen a development that I did not like. I know that with great planning we can make the Froom Ranch Development with Costco look great. Also, as far as this measure that is supported by the Food and Grocery workers union,competition is good for business. People will shop where they want to and with whom they want to do business. Thanks for your time. John &Darsie Cole 1242 Sumac Ct. San Luis Obispo, Ca. 93401 805-543-7321 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ s locity.org> From: "Bob & Kelene Cooper" <bkcooper@thegrid.net> To: "Mayor Allen Settle" <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 5:30 PM Subject: Costco in SLO Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, I love Costco, my husband and I travel to Costco in Santa Maria monthly for their great meats,foods and other products. I am disabled with a spine injury and would benefit from having a Costco in San Luis Obispo. I'm sure by now you are enjoying the benefits of bringing other larger stores to our area. Costco would bring needed jobs and services we are sorely without. There is no need to hold San Luis Obispo County residents hostage by having to pay higher prices or the need to travel out of the county to seek competitive products and services. San Luis Obispo would also benefit from a new south bound off ramp onto Diliado for access to the new mall. It would cut down on the Los Osos Valley Road traffic as well as Madonna Road traffic. I realize that I am only one tax paying citizen, but I feel the more homes you build the larger our community grows, we need to bring other successful business to our town. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, K.Cooper cc:Jan Howell Marx Ken Schwartz John Ewan CC: "Councilmember C. Mulholland" <jewan@slocity.org> From: "Scott Hull" <scott@m-cad.com> To: <kschwartz@slocity.com>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmuIlholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 17, 2001 6:23 PM Subject: Banning Costco I just heard on the news that an ordinance is being passed that would prevent a Costco type store from being built in San Luis Obispo. If it is not too late - Please don't pass this ordinance. I have to drive to Santa Maria about 4-5 times per year for shopping.The new large home improvement store that is being built on Los Osos Valley road will save me at least two of the those trips. A Costco store here would save me a couple more trips. It appears that the union members at the bigger grocery stores in SLO were the main forces in promoting this ordinance that three of you went along with. I don't do my grocery shopping when I go to Costco. I shop at the local Albertsons. I do resent having to keep going to Santa Maria to visit stores that are not allowed in our city. I think I'll make it a point to load up on groceries whenever I go to Costco just to spite this decision. It seems like a somewhat arbitrary ordinance with dubious intentions. I don't like this decision. Scott Hull San Luis Obispo Lee Price-Feb. 6 -Council Meeting_ From: "Andy Anderson"<TC6AA@tri-counties.org> To: <Iprice@slocity.org> Date: 2/6/01 9:55AM Subject: Feb. 6-Council Meeting As a 35 year resident of San Luis Obispo and a person with deep gratitude for having lived in this beautiful community, I would like to express my concerns to the Mayor and the Council. I am very worried about the development of agricultural/open space land and am particulary opposed to any shopping center or big-box store being allowed to destroy our landscape. I work for a non-profit agency; I survive on a very mediocre salary, and I have never been a Walmart or Cosco (and never will) and I get by just fine. I hate to see the values of consumerism replace the value of being caretakers of this planet and handing down a better quality of fife to our children. Thank you for allowing me to speak. Adele Anderson 538 Felton Way San Luis Obispo From: Terry Mohan <catsdad@onemain.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @1 slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 7:44 PM Subject: No on Big Boxes John what were you thinking voting against the ordinance limiting the food item space in Big Box stores? Seeing the tactics that the Costco chain is using to overturn the Council decision you can see that there objective is only for profit and not for the good of SLO. The majority of the people are counting on you to change your vote and for the three that voted for,to stand firm. Remember if the majority wanted Big Box stores Dave Romero would still be on the Council. Let's go John do the right thing and vote yes on the ordinance! Terry Mohan San Luis Obispo OneMain.com, Your Hometown Internet. From: <Ezb1957@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@sloc.ity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 7:44 PM Subject: NO COSTCO in SLO! Dear Councilmember: Though we have never written to any of you before, nor have we ever written a letter to the editor of the local paper, we feel compelled to make our voices heard concerning COSTCO. As longtime residents of SLO,we love San Luis Obispo the way it is. We are appalled by people who seem to feel we need more shopping. There are more than enough shopping opportunities in San Luis! We applaud those of you who have resisted this trend and urge those who have not,to do so. Once you overdevelop and ruin the beauty and quaintness of San Luis Obispo,you can never get it back. Don't kill the goose that laid the golden egg. Don't ruin the town we love so dearly!!!!! We implore you to say°no°to COSTCO and all other big shopping developments! Thank you, Eric and Bonnie Zebe, registered voters 568 Perkins Lane San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: "Carol Pappas"<carolpappas @ ibm.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:50 PM Subject: NO ON COSTCO Mayor Allen Settle: We fully support your decision in regard to the ordinance(s)that would help keep Costco and other big boxes out of SLO. Stick with it!!!!!!! Take a look at Ventura and the Palmdale/Lancaster area in Southern California if you want to see what happens when the big boxes close or decide to move out. It is not a pretty sight. Can the projected increase in tax dollars for the city really materialize when small local stores will end up closing? Their profits are spent locally. The big box profits go to the corporate office! Tom and Carol Pappas CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: none none<rhmoen®yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:25 PM Subject: REALLY save our tax$$$ 1 have read with great interest the letters to the editor about the lost$$$to San Luis Obispo because the council voted not to permit Costco develope on some beautiful property. I call this lost revenue CHUMP CHANGE. If there is really a concern for this lost revenue let's get real. Think about all lost revenue the city losses because people travel to S. Calif.to spend their money at Disneyland, Universal Studios, San Diego Zoo, Dodger Stadium, Cal (eatum a bug)Worthington Dodge. Think of out of state places like Las Veges. Let's get real again. We're talking real jobs now. This isn't CHUMP CHANGE now, it's 'REAL' $$$$$. Call me crazy for leaving S. Calif.to get away from all that. But I/we want all that here now and a whole lot more. Then maybe someday I may want to move away again from all that'rubbish'to a small, peaceful, and beautiful community. Think about all the lost$$$$$because we didn't let Costco get their way. There is a difference between a'want' and a'need'. Richard L. Moen, Atascadero Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices. http://auctions.yahoo.com/ From: Katie Hilton <kmanildi@mac.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 9:38 PM Subject: COSTCO Dear Councilmember Ewan: I strongly support the ordinance which was previously passed to discourage "big box"stores. Costco has mounted an expensive campaign to create the image that a majority of the voters support a reversal of the ordinance. Please vote to retain the ordinance, and by doing so retain the character of the city. Sincerely, Douglas Hilton From: David Bourne <slo_trailrunner@yahoo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:44 PM Subject: Decision on Costco Greetings,To paraphrase the current paid advertisement in The Tribune, NO ON COSTCO !Please stay the course regarding placing limitations on big box stores. In spite of the campaign to get you to give-in and change your mind, many residents of San Luis very much appreciate your foresight, wisdom, and concern for our current&future environ ment.David and Linda Bourne, 629 Cerro Romauldo, SLO Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices. From: <Pamorbob@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kscheartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 10:12 PM Subject: NO ON COSTCO PLEASE DO NOT LET COSTCO DESTROY THE AMBIENCE AND SMALL BUSINESSES OF SAN LUIS OBISPO. VERY TRULY YOURS, DR.AND MRS. ROBERT M.THOMPSON From: "Rible" <arible@thegrid.net> To: "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6, 2001 6:16 AM Subject: NO ON COSTCO I support any Council decision to keep the special character of San Luis Obispo. Bringing more large retail stores to an already over congested part of town is NOT acceptable to me. Sincerely, Ann Rible From: Dayna A De Valk<dayna66@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulhulland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6,2001 6:18 AM Subject: Maintain Anti-Bigbox Ordinance- Please Council members, I ask that those of you who voted for the anti-bigbox ordinance please maintain your forward thinking opinions this evening! There isn't enough time to list all the reasons to prevent bix box stores from coming to our community. I hope that you do not allow yourselves to be swayed by those who cannot see the forest for the trees. Thank you. From: Kathryn Keller<kathryn @ omnipost.com> To: John Ewan <jewan @ slocity.org>, Ken Schwartz<kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6,2001 7:19 AM Subject: Ordinance Dear Council Members Ewan and Schwartz, As I understand it no one has told Costco that they are not welcome in SLO. It is important that we as a city, one heck of a beautiful one at that, not let huge corporations decide how we will grow. Costco can agree to scale down the size of their SLO store and that would make many folks happy.We don't have to agree to play by only their rules. We're in the driver's seat. Please consider this point of view tonight at the council meeting. Sincerely, Kathryn Keller From: i302584@thegrid.net To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>„<jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Feb 6, 2001 7:31 AM Subject: Costco I am beginning to think that the"silent” majority is made up of the folks, like me, who cherish San Luis Obispo just the way it is, and can be very content without being able to buy a hundred pounds of laundry detergent at a time. Slowly we are making our voices heard,finally realizing that with all the important issues surrounding us,the one that moves people to speaking out is being denied a COSTCO??? Stick to your guns, Settle and Mulholland. Don't cave in to this materialistically driven hysteria. I grew up in Santa Maria, a charming little town smaller than SLO in the 50s. The grow at all costs attitude down there has left very little of the town's character. L. Ogden, San Luis Obispo From: <jemwhite@juno.com> To: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 4:31 PM I hope you will be voting AGAINST Costco tomorrow. Janet White GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software,visit: http://di.www.juno.com/get/tagj. From: "Alvin B: Cole"<minalva@earthlink.net> To:. <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.orgs, <jrnarx@slociit org>, <kschwarti@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 4:43 PM Subject: Costco P-le3$e save SLO! "NO° on,Costco! M Cole From: <JosephAIA@aol.com> To: <kschwaratz @ slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 4:45 PM Subject: Costco Advertisment Dear Ken Schwartz: Costco urges people to write to Mayor Settle to get him change his vote. I think YOUR last vote on this issue was the wrong vote. I urge YOU to reconsider and change yours. The Costco ad says the Council has said no to their proposal. Its not the truth. Costco is welcome to come here under OUR conditions. Don't be bullied! Don't sell out our community's soul for a few silver dollars. Joseph Amanzio, Architect CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> From: <Bmarzio@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 5:06 PM Subject: NO on COSTCO We wish to preserve the current nature of San Luis Obispo. Please vote no on Costco. Thank you, Bonnie Marzio From: <CAMNBON@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <Jewan®slocity.org>, <Jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 5:09 PM Subject: no costco Vote no on Costco...we don't want this type of retail. People can drive to Santa Maria if needed. Thank you Cameron Boyne From: "Jeff Priolo" <jeff.priolo@thegrid.net> To: <asettle @ clocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 3:16 PM Subject: tuesdays vote for big box stores restrictions Major and Councilmembers: I will not be able to attend the meeting tonight to voice my opinion so I would like to convey my wishes and give you support on the restriction you have voted to impose for big box development. I am a costco member. I do not shop there as I find it impossible to save-instead I spend more. I find it hard to believe that a Costco is a necessity here in the city of SLO to provide our coommunity with low cost shopping.Try-Smart and Final, local bookstore, local hardware stores, Mervyns, Longs, Staples(we have 2), and your local grocery store. If you look around, you may find what your looking for and if not. ASK your local store. I support a sq ft. ordinance for this particular property as well as the percentage of grocery items that you are voting on Tuesday evening. Cheryl Priolo SLO since 1974 CC: <jewan@slocity.org> From: John B Connely<jconnely@falcon.csc.calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 2:39 PM Subject: No on COSTCO John Ewan, No on Costo and any more big box stores.They drive the smaller business owners out of the area. Yet they are the people with a direct interest in the community, who support the schools, PTA, sports programs, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts,churches and other Community Groups. If we lose some tax revenue,then we just do. If we spend somewhat more than we would at a big box store, then we do. Our community is worth more than what we might gain. John and Judy Connely 1273 Oceanaire Drive San Luis Obispo, 93405 From: "Michael Gates" <rymonme@worldnet.att.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <jmarx@sloocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 1:24 PM Subject: San Luis Obispo developement Hello. My name is Diane Gates. I have one child who graduated from Cal Poly this last December and another that is a student at the school now. For the last five years my husband and I have visited your beautiful area from Los Angeles. Each time we visit we find more pleasure in the beautiful hills and all the wonderful things to do. Being from the Los Angeles area we truly appreciate the unique beauty of San Luis Obispo and the surrounding areas. Both my kids have taken advantage of all the things that the area has to offer. On our last visit I was looking at the local paper and saw the ad for yes on Costco and an article about developing the area adjacent to the Embassy Suites hotel. What makes your area so wonderful is the fact that you have not developed into what the rest of Southern Calif. has become. One big shopping mall. Recently a new Costco has been built in our area and it has drawn a tremendous amount of traffic to the surrounding streets. At certain times of the day it is a small nightmare trying to get anywhere using one of these streets. Please do not allow Costco or any other development of the San Luis Obispo area. Please keep the beauty and integrity of your city. Sincerely, Diane Gates From: <cappleton@f irstbankslo.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>,.<jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity,org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org>,.<cm ulholland @ slocity.org> Date:. Mon, Feb 5, 2001" 2:02 PM Subject:, NO ON From: "Larry Hollis" <I_hollis@hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 11:44 AM Subject: Opposition to Big Box Stores Councilmember, As a resident, home owner, and registered voter in San Luis, I'd like you to know of my opposition to any and all big box stores in and around the city of San Luis. Sincerely, Larry J. Hollis Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com r` From: Hanna Lee<puffy@thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:43 AM Subject: COSTCO I want to go on record as being STRONGLY opposed to any more BIG BOX STORES. Arguements such as benefiting the poor...hogwash;one vist alone is usually $100+for a few bulk items. The poor can't afford to shop this way. I don't believe that the loss of tax dollars to Santa Maria is as great as the tax dollars that will have to be spent in the long run; environment, road, mental health issues because it will drive some people crazy trying to contend with traffic, noise and the masses. I feel those in favor of this issue are purely selfish. We have become a lazy society that wants everything when we want it, and not to be inconvenienced one iota.And heaven forbid, these big whinning babies should be told NO, you can't have this.The greater good for all should strongly be considered. If Mr. Madonna does not get his way,will he threaten the city with some other ridiculous use for the remaing land...and end up with want he wants? I hope you don't cave in to the self serving demands of the greedy at the expense of far more than one whinning developer and and a very large chain store. Sincerely, Barbara Lee Cambria CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: Jim Keese<jkeese@calpoly.edu> To: <dalidio@sanluismarketplace.com>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwart7-@sloc4.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:53 AM Subject: Your development Emie and Kristie Dalidio, You have been running an expensive campaign to promote your efforts to develop your property in SLO. We have received letters to our home and have seen several adds in the newspaper. All of this has not convinced us that the San Luis Marketplace is what we need. Your property sits next to Madonna Plaza, which is, economically speaking, not too good. We can't support your project unless Madonna Plaza is redeveloped first. Your choice of developer- Bill Bird-probably hurts your chances as well. Public opinion of him, as an uncaring, money-grubbing, outsider, doesn't help.What makes our town different is that we have a history of a locally owned diversified economic base that has a strong downtown. Your project moves our town away from that ideal. If development is what you want, why not give the city what it truly needs--moderately priced housing.Why not propose smaller, more affordable homes (1,250sq ft 3 bedroom/2baths)on the property? We think the community would support your efforts. Please don'ttake your case to the county--work with your community. A lot of people will support you if you can see other visions besides big box stores. Sincerely,Jennifer O'Brien &Jim Keese From: "Pixie J. Bean"<sloelf @ slonet.org> To: asettle<asettle@slocity.org>,jewan <jewan@slocity.org>,jmarx<jmarx@slocity.org>, kschwartz<kschwartz®slocity.org>, cmulholland<cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:59 AM Subject: Corporate Power I have just read this morning's Tribune, which contains a letter from a citizen saying that she was solicited by Costco to ask the City Council to reconsider its recent decision. On the facing page a large advertisement paid for by Costco appears, conveniently supplying the e-mail addresses of the member of the City Council. It is very puzzling to me that people of my own acquaintance who have moved to this county from congested areas to the north and south of us are so eager to recreate the conditions from which they have escaped. Since I discovered the beauty and serenity of San Luis Obispo six years ago, traffic and crime have increased at an alarming rate. The amazing civility of drivers and strangers one sees on the street is ebbing like a tide that can never return. Please, please, do not allow the corporate giants to swallow our home. Shopping is not the purpose of fife. Consumption is not the gateway to happiness. The loveliness of our city will eventually be consumed by over-population, but you have the power to slow that process. Thank you. Pixie J. Bean From: "Betty Schetzer" <schetzer@slonet.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:59 AM Subject: Tuesday meeting Sorry I can't be with you tomorrow night- need to attend Garden Festival steering committee meeting. But hope you can protect us from Dalidio& Costco, despite the howls of those who stand to gain financially-very obviously an orchestrated campaign. I figure the last election was the real count of what our residents want. We certainly don't need to duplicate Santa Maria or Torrance here. From: <Alababs2@cs.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:02 AM Subject: NO ON COSTCO Honorable Members of the City Council: I'LL BE BRIEF. 1. Please do not make a decision based on "turnout"tomorrow night. Vote no! Or consider calling a special advisory elections- "the only accurate way to test the voice of the people. 2. A far better use of that property would be direly needed residential&• "a mix of town houses, apartments and SFRs. Residential use is already well established in the neighborhood. Preserving farmland in the midst of an urban area makes no sense. Homes do. Thank you all for your sincere efforts! Barbara Kraus Frank Former SLO planning commission member and 28-year active resident From: <NaSGIen@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:20 AM Subject: NO ON COSTCO Dear City Council Members: We happily applauded your recent decision to limit COSTCO. We dread seeing these huge, impersonal companies push aside our small-scale, human-sized local businesses. Please do not retract from that wise decision. It is so important if we are to maintain the qualities that have made our county such a desirable place to live in and to visit. Sincerely, Neva and Charles Glenn From: <WDLMaci@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmaarx@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:20 AM Subject: I do not want a Costco in SLO.......DO not let this get built I do not want a Costco in SLO.......DO not let this get built NO ON COSTCO linda Y. SLO From: <PDMOERMAN@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:31 AM Subject: Tuesday night vote Dear Vice Mayor Ewan, We are writing to ask you to keep fighting for.us against the ordinance on Tuesday night. We are two of the many who travel to Santa Maria regularly to shop at Costco, and feel it would be a great benefit to San Luis Obispo. We would like our sales renenues to stay in our own city. Our downtown would not be hurt by this. When Riley's and Penney's were downtown we shopped there regularly, and we miss that. Our downtown is beautiful, but much more for tourists than it is for us. The property that Mr. Madonna is building on is on the outskirts, even farther away than our sewer plant that is visible to one and all. Mr. Madonna would build a good looking store, not you typical plain box store. We were both born and raised here in San Luis Obispo. We've seen the changes over the years. It's wonderful to have some shopping choices in stores like Linens &Things, Cost Plus World Market, Barnes and Noble, The Gap. Costco is a needed addition. Many San Luis Obispo citizens have moved here from big cities, and would like to keep us from changing. But we have changed, and we're going to continue. We have to if we don't want to stagnate. Councilmember Marx wrote about Trader Joe's in the paper recently, and how we put in a smaller store than others. Why does everything that comes in to San Luis Obispo have to be smaller? Our selections are always limited. We think it's wrong to tell a store what it can sell. This ordinance needs to be changed and we're hoping you'll continue to support us in this. Sincerely, Dewaine& Patti Moerman From: "jim or mary" <jjwebster @prodigy.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:34 AM Subject: big box stores I am firmly against allowing a Costco in San Luis Obispo. These stores never deliver on all the "good" things they say will happen if allowed to come into a community. I am also against the huge plans proposed by an outside builder for the Dalidio property, and urge you to reject both these projects. There are several options for shopping economically in the San Luis area. Thank you. Mary Webster From: Irene Struthers Rush <irene@slonet.org> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 9:54 AM Subject: Please NO MORE BIG-BOX STORES!! Please do not change your decision to prevent the big-box fungus from overtaking SLO. I moved here from LA in 1992, knowing that my shopping opportunities would be more limited, but happy to make that trade-off for a better quality of life in this unique and beautiful area. I am a Costco member, but only go there once or twice a year while in San Jose or on the way to LA. And when I have stopped at Costco in Santa Maria, I don't spend another extra minute or dollar in Santa Maria; I much prefer to support my local businesses. Thank you for your consideration. Irene Rush Writing, Editing, Indexing 2471 Tierra Drive, Los Osos CA 93402 805 534 9456 From: "Oliver McCullo.gg.h".<QRMcC@ms-n-.co.m-> To <asettle@slocityorg>, ?jewan@slocity.prg>, <jmarx@slocity.org>,. <kschwartz@slocity.org>,<cmullholland.@slocity.org> Date: Mon,'Feb 5, 2001 1.0.17:Am. Subject: costco NO ON.COSTCO From: <SHrbl@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 10:26 AM Subject: COSTCO - NO! Thanks to the paid advertisement that included your emails in order to express my opinion to you on the Costco vote. Up to now I have been reading with interest but want to add my vote to the "no" list. I do not want Costco in the city of SLO. When I go to WalMart or Target in our county I am struck by the big parking areas and the noise and people inside are too much.Those stores serve a need, and I know young families with children especially take advantage of the lower prices (and quality) of goods. I have lived in the city of San Luis Obispo since 1965, own a home, am retired on a limited income. I do not believe any income derived from so called taxes brought in by having Costco would be that signifcant and certainly not worth what it would cost the city by diminishing our space and local merchants livelihood. So, add two more votes on the no side from us. Sincerely, Shirley and Gary Herbel 583 Princeton Place, SLO, 93405 From: <MJenny2282@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity:org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 9:57 AM Subject: AGAINST limiting ordinance,follow staff recommendations This Email is to express my request you to vote AGAINST the proposed ordinance limiting to 5 percent the floor space for non taxable items in retail warehouse stores on non taxable items. It is my suggestion you follow the recommendations of the city planning staff and planning commission. I attended a recent meeting of the planning commission and they outlined many reasons why this could be harmful to the City of San Luis Obispo. Since I am in FAVOR OF THE BUILDING OF A COSTCO next to the Home Depot location it would personally be helpful to me. I do not like to make the 64 mile round trip and spend my tax dollars helping Santa Barbara County when the income from the sale of the non taxable items could be used to great advantage by the City of SLO. Please follow staff recommendations and vote AGAINST this ordinance. Mary Jenny 2282 Exposition Drive SLO 93401 From: Lisa Ganaja<Iganaja®yahoo.com> To: <sstendahl@slocity.org> Date: 2/5/01 10:01 AM Subject: NO on Costco and NO on San Luis Marketplace Dear City Council Members: We are opposed to both the Costco and San Luis Marketplace projects. Please preserve the unique character of our city. Sincerely, Scott and Lisa Ganaja 1232 Descanso Street SLO Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail-only$35 a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/ From: Joyce Del Pesco <71602.410@compuserve.com> To: Vice Mayor John Ewan <jewan @slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 7:10 PM Subject: Costco We strongly object to a Costco in San Luis Obispo From: <Seasideshirley@aol.com> To: <asettle@slonet.org>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 8:06 AM Subject: Box Store Ord. Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, Please vote against the big box ordinance today. Please approve a Costco in our area. Hal &Shirley Gilbert Los Osos, CA. From: <WinnalO@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5, 2001 8:16 AM Subject: NO ON COSTCO Dear Council members. Please stick to your guns and do not vote for a Cosco or a MarketPlace or any other BIG BOX building to be built in SLO. I have lived in SLO for 25 years and wish for it to remain the wonderful, unique place that it is.Thank you, Edwina Olt 1370 Broad Street SLO. From: 'Barbara Lang" <blang54@hotmail.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Feb 5,2001 8:32 AM Subject: Building pProjects I favor holding the line on big box stores (COSTO). I want to keep the small town character of SLO and to protect against the rise of air pollution in our town from increased traffic by shoppers from other areas as much as possible. I am also not in favor of the Dalidio mall. In my opinion we have the plenty of shopping choices now. Barbara Lang Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: Kerry E Taylor<kkpt@juno.com> To: <dalidio@sanluismarketplace.com> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 9:52 PM Subject: Your Tribune Ad Dear Dalidios, Your near full page ad in the Sunday Tribune invited comments on your project. First, I can't fathom why you are bemoaning the Council's decision on the ordinance that relates to Costco. As far as I understand it, that ordinance wouldn't affect your project. What you appear to be doing is trying to drum up"public support"for ALL commercial development projects coming before the Council. I don't want a Costco or a Target store in SLO. I also resent your implication that the financial difficulties San Luis Coastal Unified is facing is due to a lack of Council approval of projects like yours. Everyone knows that the real problem the school district faces is due to the revaluation and escalated depreciation approved for the Diablo Canyon Nuclear power plant. Schools don't receive a penny of the local sales tax, so big sales tax generating box stores do next to nothing for the schools. I also resent your threat that if the Council doesn't approve your project, you'll just go to the County and get it approved. Last I heard, your property is entirely surrounded by the City. Where would you get the necessary water and sewer services for your huge development in an unincorporated island? And I don't support the idea that developers can just shop around to the City or the County and go with which ever one will approve their projects. This is certainly not the way to have logical and orderly planning. While your property should be annexed to the City,the scale of your development too large, particularly given the renovations that have just occurred at the Madonna shopping center. Maybe someday the development you are proposing would be appropriate, but certainly not now. You should scale it back to something much smaller and include a phasing component that would have the development proceed over, say, a ten year period if the need for more commercial development is indicated. In the mean time,the property should remain in active agricultural production as it has been ever since I first came to SO in 1978. Kent Taylor GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software, visit: http://di.www.juno.com/get/tagj. CC: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org> From: <BASAALIA@aol.com> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz®slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 3:21 PM Subject: No Costco To the Mayor and Councilmembers, Please know that I do not want a Costco in San Luis Obispo. Thank you for respecting the majority of San Luis Obispans who do not want the character of their city to change. Sincerely, Elizabeth Mathews San Luis Obispo From: "SherryFontan" <sfj kslotown @charter.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 4:36 PM Subject: Costco and marketpalce John-I was very surprised to find out how you voted on the ordinance that prohibited Costco from building a store in SLO. I am urging you to change your vote when the ordinance is before the Council again on Tuesday and vote "Yes". I believe that a store like Costco would negatively impact our community, all small businesses and our beautiful and thriving downtown. I do not wish for SLO to look like every other city up and down Hwy. 101. Also I am against the construction of the Marketplace and the Target etc.that it would bring. I understand that the above ordinance is only a stop gap measure and that the only way to limit big box stores is to pass an ordinance that would limit the size of any store in SLO. I was glad to see that you requested staff to develop this type of ordinance. This is the only way to deal with this constant treat to our small town way of life. However, until that is done, it is necessary to limit big boxes with all the means and opportunities available. Sincerely, Sherry Fontan 1216 Buchon St. SLO From: "KB Millard" <kbmillard@prodigy.net> To: "Christine Mullholland" <cmullholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 5:05 PM Subject: Costco Please do not be intimidated be those persons that advocate that a Costco store is necessary here in SLO. Continue to vote against it or any other"big box" store. Katherine and Bud Millard P. O. Box 2472 Avila Beach, CA 93424 CC: "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Allen Settle" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org> From: "Dan Miller" <mrdanmiller@earthlink.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 5:35 PM Subject: Leadership and Corporate Mindset Dear members of the SLO City Council: If long-range decisions on the future of our local habitat are subject to the whims of the consumers in our society,then truly the corporate mindset and its use of advertising and the pop culture to create artificial demand and short term profits will lead to an inevitable destruction of our human habitat. Your leadership is vital in taking a long-term view of what is to be done. Even more important is to be firm on what should not be done. If you do your best to hold the line, your wisdom will be celebrated by my grandchildren, long after we are all gone and the COSTCOs,TARGETs, WALLMARTS, HOME DEPOTS and their ilk will have gone the way of WOOLWORTHS, MONTGOMERY WARD, and others. If you need to see the future of corrupted planning decisions, visit Fairfax County, in Northern Virginia. There you will find that even the celebrated and emulated Reston (a "planned community"where all the mistakes were planned), has a new Town Center containing nice shops, none of which sells anything that anyone really needs. I implore you to resist the corrupt enticements by the corporate manipulators and the local landowners who wish to have their pink cake and take no risks. With best wishes, Daniel Miller 1038 Pauline Way San Luis Obispo 549-8260 From: "ROBERTS_1599" <ROBERTS_1599@email.msn.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 7:18 PM Subject: Big Box Stores You,Jan Howell Manx, and Christine Mulholland made the right choice two weeks ago with regard to selling groceries out of a big box store. I applaud your efforts, and urge you to stand firm in your commitment to refuse to pave over our beautiful SLO. I am pleased that city staff have been directed to look into a size limit for stores. We have a unique, beautiful slice of paradise, and I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiment expressed frequently in recent weeks that we would be extremely shortsighted to sell our souls for a couple of bucks savings on dog food. We citizens of SLO had a clear choice in November. Romero is strongly progrowth, and doesn't seem to give much thought as to how we grow. We wanted Settle, and we wanted Mulholland, because you articulated a position that many of us envision as our future. Ken Schwartz' argument regarding the number of pro/con is somewhat specious. Might doesn't make right, and the powerful machinery of Costco is churning to keep their membership vocal. The so-called "anti-Costco" have no organized force and no spokesperson. Also,to carry Schwartz' logic to its conclusion, we'd have to poll and act upon every issue,fishtailing, and having no cohesive plan. I also wonder how well our citizenry would do left to its own devices with no leadership. How many people,for example, do you think truly embrace civil rights? Good leadership is visionary, and takes us to places that perhaps we wouldn't envision on our own. It leads us to be better than we knew we could be. I'm proud of the votes that you, Ms. Marx, and Ms. Mulholland cast that attempt to preserve the very special place we have here. You will hear a lot of impassioned pleading Tues. night, and you may here more"pro-Costco" than "anti-Costco." I urge you to stay the course!! Be strong...thoughtful people support you! Diane Hunt Roberts CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> From: "Don P. Vokal" <bigdon@thegrid.net> To: "Alan Settle (E-mail)" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland (E-mail)" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Jan Ewan (E-mail)' <jewan@slocity.org>, "Jan Howell Marx (E-mail)" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz (E-mail)" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Myles Kowalck (E-mail)" <pm85 @ pacbell.net> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 7:35 PM I realize that the investors (Home Depot and Lowes) must have done some research, but to have two simular stores within walking distance of each other is to ask for one to close sooner or later----then what? Who wants an old box store? It happened in the beautiful box store area of Santa Maria-right next to Cosco. Madonna somehow or other got here first. The second, Lowes will be overkill. Tell the developers to build a new one in Glendale--- You are also aware that Cosco charges$45 annually to save money for us From: "winters2lk" <winters2lk@mymailstation.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 9:44 AM Subject: No big box stores Please help keep our city free from outside developers and BIG BOX STORES. We watched it happen down south, that's why I live here. Thank you. Ken Winters Morro Bay winters2lk@mymailstation.com From: <SloDot@aol.com> To: <asettle @ slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 9:49 AM Subject: Re: Box store/Costco Please, Please do not ok these box stores for our town. The "yes people would have you believe "everyone" is in favor. That is not true. I am not nor are any of my friends and we have talked at length. We want to retain the SLO life that we value so much. Every person cannot live everywhere. I cannot afford Monterey or Santa Barbara. We cannot always have all things but we are in a special place to keep our town pretty much as it is. How can a county support all these box stores in every little town. Something doesn't add up here. Please, once again. Do NOT ok these box stores. We don't need them,they are ugly and have larged paved over parking lots with lights that glare all over town. I appreciate your help. Dorothy Johnson 1415 Morro St. # 16 SLO 93401 545-8154 CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: "Holly Sletteland" <hslettel@hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:11 AM Subject: Costco Proposal Although I do not live in the City of San Luis Obispo, I do work, shop and own property there and thus have an interest in its future. I have pretty much stayed out of the fray surrounding Costco until now. I 'did' urge the county Board of Supervisors to support the city of San Luis Obispo's appeal of the decision to approve building a Home Depot just outside city limits. It has been shown time and time again that big-box stores create congestion problems, blight the landscape, and hurt local businesses. But once the damage was done by Supervisors Achadjian, Ryan and Ovitt in rejecting the appeal, I pretty much gave the battle up as a lost cause. Although I didn't get all worked up about it, I supported the Council's recent decision to restrict the amount of space large stores, such as Costco, can devote to nontaxable items such as food. This decision did not prohibit Costco from locating in San Luis Obispo. It simply required that they scale back to a size more in keeping the character of the community today-and the character we would like to see it have tomorrow.This seemed reasonable and fair, and was actually consistent with similar decisions made by Arroyo Grande, Paso Robles and the County. The recent strong-arm tactics of Costco and the Chamber of Commerce to bully the City Council into reversing your previous decision and approving their plans have forced me to speak up. I urge you to stand fim against their harrassment.The voters and taxpayers of the city put a progressive Council in office for a reason. Saving their quality of life is much more important to them than saving a few cents at a big-box store. ____________ Holly Sletteland Owner: 2030 Rachel Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Resident:4849 See Ranch Lane Templeton, CA 93465 From: "Bill" <billdi @ infree.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:37 AM PLEASE STICK TO YOUR DECISION TO LIMIT "COSTCO"TYPE STORES. WE DO NOT NEED ANY MEGA-BOX STORE IN SAN LUIS OBISPO. THANKYOU WILLIAM DAMERY bill-d@bigfoot.com From: <Dhthom8466@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 10:38 AM Subject: Cosco 4 February 2001 Honorable Councilman Ewan: As a resident of San Luis Obispo since 1946, 1 have oberved and considered both positive and negative effects of large, discount stores upon communities and have concluded that stores such as Cosco detract from the quality of community life without providing compensating gain. To preserve the ambiance and commercial life of our city, I urge you as a member of the San Luis Obispo City Council to resist and reject applications of such commercial enterprises to establish and operate big box stores. I am unalterably opposed to both the Frome and Dalidio properties development into large discount stores. David H.Thomson, 1335 Foothill From:: <Vallybea:r@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity,org> Date; Sun, Feb 4,_2001 1D29 AM Subject: COSTCO NOON COSTCOHI Edith Mascolo Los Osos From: Carol Lick<click@calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4,2001 11:43 AM Subject: "Dalidio" property development I am FOR preserving the so-called Dalidio property and not for its development as yet another shopping center. Rampant consumerism need not be the direction that SLO takes.Those already driving out of county to the Costcos and others of the central coast are able to do so, and their ease of this kind of shopping should not drive planning for a community that need not look like the far too common California sprawl. Please give citizens who want to work at preservation a chance to pursue other options with this valuable agricultural property. And don't take what the proposed businesses say about their requirements for the property as the last word: should the fox guard the henhouse? Thank you for your great expentiture of time and effort in the future of a wonderful city. Carol Lick 325 Albert Drive SLO 93405 From: "adrienne dickinson" <dickinsonfam @ hotmail.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4,2001 12:23 PM Subject: no on Costco support From: Gale Damery<gale_d@juno.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 2:20 PM Subject: No on Costco NO on COSTCO. The majority does NOT want to open the door to a string of box stores. San Luis is well on it's way to losing it's uniqueness and looking like every other city in So.Calif. Stop the madness for more shopping while you can. CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland @ slocity.org> From: Tom Ellsworth <tom_ellsworth@yahoo.com> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2,2001 9:10 PM Subject: Costco Dear Vice-Mayor Ewan, I must write to tell you that I support your vote against the so-called "Costco" ordinance. We need the tax base that a Costco wholesale store will provide. I hope that your vote will remain the same on any further consideration of this issue. Sincerely, Tom Ellsworth 2316 Banderola SLO Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail -only$35 a year! http://personal.maii.yahoo.com/ From: <LaureISH@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 7:28 AM Subject: Re: SAVE THE a• oeDALIDIOa• ' FARM Dear City Council Member, My husband and I are opposed to the big box stores/car dealerships and wish to see the Dalidio farm land stay agricultural. We don't want to see commercial sprawl on this land or see SLO become another Santa Maria. Thank you for your work. Laurel Sherrie-Harvey Bob Harvey Arroyo Grande From: <markjohnson @ pacbell.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kscwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 8:25 AM Subject: No On Big Boxes-- No On Costco Protect San Luis Obispo. Protect Downtown SLO. Protect our downtown grocery store (which is very vulnerable to "Costco attack"). Protect local family businesses. Also, please note that the majority of pro-Costco letters in the opinion pages have been from outside SLO.The majority of actual SLO residents do not want big box stores and big box culture. Mr. Schwartz and Mr. Ewan, I believe it would be healthier for all of us if you made the ordinance unanimous,just like the county supervisors did. Thanks, Mark Johnson and family 1208 Pismo Street CC: <sstendahl@ci.san-luis-obispo-ca.us> From: Tom Neuman <wildware@earthlink.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 8:48 AM Subject: NO NO NO TO COSTCO Many thanks to the SLO city council for having the courage to keep our community"BIG BOX FREE". We all live here for a reason -we don't want San Luis to turn into Santa Maria, Los Angeles or anything but the wonderful place it is. Keep the faith in the attack that seems to be looming on this issue. WE LIKE SAN LUIS THE WAY IT IS- BIG BOX FREE Tom and Barbara Neuman From: "Dawn Legg" <dawn@p-tec.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3,2001 9:12 AM Subject: NO to Costco please! Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members, Please hold your ground and say to NO to Costco. This is from a citizen who knows the price a city and its people pay to have the so called luxury to shop at one of these merciless monsters of capitalism. I I support those members who are forward thinking in their stance to protect this lovely city, its businesses and citizens. I am proud to be a citizen of a city where the elected officials have some integrity because I know it would just easy to Yes for those who feel they are entitled to whatever they want and whatever cost. Sincerely, Dawn Legg 1637 Alrita Street SLO From: <STaylor871 @aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 9:43 AM Subject: NO ON COSTO As residents of Arroyo Grande,who fought to keep Walmart out,we can tell you folks in San Luis Obispo- big box stores hurt- not help -small communities. NO ON COSTCO !!!!!!! Joe and Sheila Taylor Arroyo Grande staylor871 @aol.com From: <BASAALIA@aol.com> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 9:58 AM Subject: Costco Dear John, I'm writing to voice my vote for NO Costco. I'd like to add, however, that limiting the square footage of grocery space to protect the likes of Vons, Albertson's, Ralph's, etc., seems a bit absurd. Perhaps that was the only way to discourage the project. My aversion to big box stores is mainly aesthetic. I understand the complaints of the many who drive to Santa Maria,the difficulty some have in paying higher prices. I wish there were some kind of compromise. But to take up more of our beautiful land for a discount on ravioli doesn't work for me. If they could take the big out of big box I'd be happier! Until they figure out how to do that I support your vote. Sincerely, Barbara Bell San Luis Obispo From: "FRED STRIBLE" <fstrible@hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:04 AM Subject: Costco Hi Jan: My thought is that the land should remain the way it would have under Soar. The idea of another shopping center is repulsive, is not needed and will only clutter up precious open space. If something must be done I believe the sports field would be preferable. Alough I am not a resident of San Luis Obispo, I fear that the problem you face will be repeated over-and-over throughout the county. For example,the County Supervisors have just approved a development in Nipomo for 120 affordable homes, unable to legally prevent it. Mabey the time will come in the near future when a Soar-like initiative will finally gain the support of the voters. Fred Strible Former Pismo Soar Comittee Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: "FRED STRIBLE" <fstrible@hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:09 AM Subject: Costco I say NO on Costco! Although my wife are members of Costco and periodically shop in Santa Maria, we are always thankful when we can return home and leave all of that hustle and bustle behind. We moved here 14 years ago from an area full of shopping malls and big box stores so we are well aware of how they diminish the quality of life. Fred Strible Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: <RKFRANTZ@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:15 AM Subject: costco, etc. Mr. Ewan, We do not need the Costco type of stores here at all, let alone being built on prime agricultural land or other beautiful open space. We should not sacrifice our natural environment and slo-town lifestyle for the sake of developers who only care about profit or shoppers who care more about saving a few dollars than they seem to care about the quality of their life. You should reconsider your stand on this issue and think more about why people live here and what kind of community this will be in the near future if we open the door to making SLO like Southern California. Thank you. Rob Frantz From: <JENFREY@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 10:28 AM Subject: Costco We approve of the City Council's previous decision to prohibit Costco from developing a huge box store in SLO, and furthermore we hope that the City Council will move to prohibit similar development on the Dalidio property. The presence of huge box stores on the borders of SLO will destroy the downtown and with it the unique character of SLO. One need only drive along Highway 101 for 3 hours in either direction to see what SLO will look like if these developments are allowed to take place. We chose to live in SLO to get away from box stores and urban sprawl. Our visitors always comment favorably on our wonderful small-city ambience. Please preserve the unique character of SLO by voting against the installation of any more box stores in SLO. John and Mary Frey 852 Vista Del Brisa San Luis Obispo CA 93405 From: "Lou &Sue Carpine"<sulu@charter.net> To: SLO City Council Members <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org.> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 11:23 AM Subject: COSTO Please, vote NO on Costco in SLO. We are recent retirees, on fixed incomes, who have chosen SLO for reasons that DO NOT INCLUDE BIG BOX PURCHASING. We are empathetic to those who wish that purchasing opportunity; that opportunity was not here when "they"chose to live here either. Really, there are many more ways of saving money than large volume shopping. Regarding lost tax revenue, let us all find positive ways to support locally owned and operated suppliers of goods and services to keep the fiber of SLO alive and well. Thank you for your consideration. Sue and Lou Carpine, 1227 Buchon Street, SLO. From: <Y.Maddalena@gateway.:net> To: <asettIiD slocity.org> Date. Sat, Feb 3, 2001 12'47 PM Subject: COSTCO OPPOSITION I am opposed to a Costco tieing built'here. Yvonne Maddalena (45 yr. SLO resident) cc: <jewan@slocity.org>,<jrnux @slocity.org>, <tcschwarti®slOcity.org>, zcmulholland @ slooity.org> From: <Sallypre@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:09 PM Subject: No on Costco John Ewan, We don't need or want Costco. With it comes more people for they need a big base of customers. If not they would close &then we would have one empty box. We want our SLO life and not more people&traffic. Give us the green hills&the quiet life. NO NO NO on Costco Sally Prechtel SLO From: <BASAALIA@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:24 PM Subject: costco Just a note to voice my opposition to having a costco in slo...thank you...Maxine Stein. From: <Sallypre@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> . Date: Sat;'Feb.3, 2001 1::24 PM Subject: I don't want Costco John; We don't want or need Costco.. No No No Roger Prechtel SLO voter From: adurham <adurham @ slonet.org> To: <cseattle@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@sloncity.org>, <jmzry@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kschwartz @ ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:29 PM Subject: no on box stores Hi, we want you to know that we support NOT having big box stores. Sincerely, Alan and Diona Durham From: Darlene Neumann <darleneneumann@netscape.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 1:30 PM Subject: Costco Dear SLO City Council: I must admit that I was surprised by your decision to keep Costco out. *It didn't expect such a courageous stance in a conservative place as SLO. *To Jan Howell Marx, you are right. Costco can change their floor space if they wish to comply with the ordinance and still get a foot into the community. *People complain about the lack of parking (including manuverability!) of Trader Joe's, but they still shop there in droves...The city is satisfied and the community is happy that they have TJ's. *So why can't Costco be a good neighbor like Trader Joe's? * I personally am opposed to Costco being here, and I have benefited from Costco membership. *But I have been to the Santa Maria Costco and others in L.A. and Seattle. *They do destroy the quality of a neighborhood with the constant stream of heavy traffic of cars and people. *San Luis Obispo should maintain it's unique quality of life, despite the temptation of Costco. *Please don't become like Arroyo Grande and Atascadero! *No, I am not a NIMBY. I live in Los Osos. *But, I would never want to live near a Costco, despite all the neat things they might offer. *It's not worth it. *Try to find some other way to raise the tax revenue you desire. Sincerely, Darlene Neumann Get your own FREE, personal Netscape Webmail account today at http://webmail.netscape.com/ f From: Don &Ellen Dollar<ddollar@pacbell.net> To: John Ewan <jewan@slocity.org>,Jan Howell Marx<jmarx@slocity.org>, Allen Settle <asettle@slocity.org>, Ken Schwartz<kschwartz@slocity.org>, Christine Mulholland <cmulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 2:33 PM Subject: Dalidio City Council, Please read and enter my comments into the record on the Dalidio issue: I do not want big box stores approved within SLO. Nor, should agricultural land be converted to big boxes. It is most unfortunate that the County of SLO has essentially put a gun to our heads and made the Madonna property what it is. It is appropriate for the city to use city money to sue the county about these types of action. The county is very good at badmouthing the state if they do something similar to them. As I wrote to you earlier: >>> Don & Ellen Dollar<ddollar@ccaccess.net>01/10/00 01:21 PM >>> City Council, I wish to share with you my concerns about the proposed San Luis Marketplace. I am against this proposed project. My primary concerns are: 1. An EIR that addresses cumulative impacts for the whole proposal, including traffic, air quality and noise. 2.The Prado Road interchange with Hwy. 101.What are the total costs, who pays and how? An EIR that addresses cumulative impacts, including the proposed construction of Prado Road to the east to connect with Broad and then onto Johnson.This will include considerable construction of a new road paralleling the existing roads of South and Tank Farm. Furthermore, this would be a busy road next to South Hills Open Space and the new ball fields at Broad. 3. Possible conflict of interest. Mayor Settle owns some property adjacent to the proposed site. It would only be proper for the mayor not to be involved in this proposal in any way until a written determination is received.The discussion by the developer to split the proposed project so that the Mayor would not have a conflict of interest only reaffirms my opinion that a perceived conflict of interest already exists. 4.We do not need more agricultural land converted to malls. The County is already doing this to us at out boundary. How many malls do we need? Want? Currently,the Mall is being renovated,the County is allowing large big box development at our boundary,the Copelands have a large proposal going forward downtown and now this. Stop.This agricultural land is also part of our viewshed. I don't want us to loose our small town values. This proposed project is not needed. Please vote it down. I stand by my prior message to you (above). Also, recent citizen input on budget priorities clearly show that; limiting/controlling/stopping growth, preserving open space, and discouraging big box stores are of more importance than encouraging big box stores. Act accordingly. Just because a developer has the money to do a project, does not make it right. We are short of Disneyland style entertainment in this town, does that mean we need a Disneyland? NO WAY!! I understand that the developer has sent out numerous postcards asking people if they want the project. I live in the city and never got a card. Did his survey include an option to not have the project? I would not put much credibility on that survey.The recent city budget priorities survey is realistic. Doing the right thing on this issue, is voting against it. The future legacy for SLO is in your hands!!!! Also, the general plan, land use element policy says it encourages preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits. Open space would be acceptable as an alternative. I do not live in SLO for shopping- I do not want SLO defined by big boxes! Tell the Bird to migrate!! Thank you, Don Dollar 2357 Banderola Court SLO 93401 attachment: city budget priorities From: Don & Ellen Dollar<ddollar@pacbell.net> To: John Ewan <jewan@slocity.org>, Jan Howell Marx<jmarx@slocity.org>, Allen Settle <asettle@slocity.org>, Ken Schwartz<kschwartz@slocity.org>, Christine Mulholland <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 2:41 PM Subject: Costco City Council, Please read and enter my comments into record on this issue. I am against big box stores. Anything to limit them is good, including size restrictions on sale areas or total size, make them small boxes. Thank you, Don Dollar 2357 Banderola Court SLO 93401 From: <nlosey@kcbx.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 3:02 PM Subject: Growth, Boxes and whatnot Dear Council Member Ewan, I just wanted add my voice to those that really aren't thrilled about the"malling"of the city.The good American in me agrees with your trepidation that resulted in your Costco vote. Also, out of all the stores that could go in there, they are probably one of the least injurious to the area. Plus, I admit that letting them in would probably have garnered some good will toward standing up to other big boxes, so people wouldn't be able to say that the council is just anti-growth for the sake of it.At the same time, I wish it had never come to this.The Froom Ranch ship has sailed. No matter what goes in there, a part of the town suffers. Pollution and congestion will increase. My neighbors business may not go under, but they won't be as successful as they might be. Which means they will likely be spending less and investing less in their own communities . as they just try to compete on unfair footing with the boxes. All that kind of stuff. And all for the sake of being able to have more "stuff" and I think,for some people,the ability to say, "Look, we've finally reached the big time-We have a HugeCo now." My hope is that we can stave off the Dalidio development. I'm sure you are getting tons of letters from the pro Costco folks and the Dalidio folks. It is hard for the side that really isn't into this stuff to compete againt the organized, orchestrated and corporate funded campaigns that those developments have. Regular folks in town can't pay a PR firm to write letters (complete with mis-spellings and grammatical errors to look like they came from regular people) as is happening with regards to some of the development. We just have to write our letters the best we can, do some grassroots communication and let you know that we are here. I hope the city can avoid being railroaded and blackmailed on the Dalidio property. I appreciate the work you are doing. Please continue to do your best. Thanks, Neal Losey From: <CheriDePaulo@aol.com> To: <bmorem@thetribunenews.com> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 3:53 PM Subject: letter to the editor- COSTCO Cheri DePaulo 121 Fontana Ave. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 543-4361 Letter to the Editor: I am so sick of hearing these penny-pinching snobs crying about their COSTCO. I moved here from Phoenix and at first missed the variety of shopping and so called "Big Box"stores. I quickly realized I could find everything I need right here, and the little extra I occasionally pay is well worth it. I'm a single mom on a tight budget, but I choose to live here because I love this town, and I would hate to see it ruined by COSTCOs and Wal Marts. Our city is beautiful and unique because it doesn't have that crap. I am truly amazed and disgusted by the outcry of people who want to turn our city into a "blue light special"for the sake of convenience and saving a few pennies. For those who say that change and growth is inevitable, you're right-but if the catalyst for change is simply based on saving a buck,then it's not the kind of change I want to see. It sounds like many of you need to rethink your priorities. If it is so important for you to have this, then why don't you just move to Santa Maria-You'll save money on housing too! CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <j mark@ slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <tna2@fix.net> From: "RICK CLAWSON" <pawclaw@charter.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Feb 3, 2001 4:53 PM Subject: Fw: Costco coming to SLO Blank -----Original Message----- From: RICK CLAWSON To: asettle@slocity.org Sent: Saturday, February 03,2001 5:02 PM Subject: Costco coming to SLO Dear Mayor and City Council Members, I'm writing to you to express my opinion of the current issue that is before the council. I have lived in the area since 1955, coming here as a teenager from Illinois I have loved this area and have chose to stay here because of the small town atmosphere ,clean air , and about the last place on the central coast that is still pristine. At this time my husband and I live a few blocks from downtown SLO. Every weekend I see the tourists that come here and really enjoy what we have to offer them, they eat here, sleep here and buy merchandise here.......If they wanted to buy in bulk or buy from Costco or Wal Mart, KMart, or Target and ect. they would stay in there own back yard and buy there. We have been a member for since Costco opened. We make a trip to Santa Maria and buy what we buy from the Big Box Stores.We do not find it a problem to drive to Santa Maria to shop at Costco or any other big Box Store..... I hope you will hold steadfast against the opposition, I feel that we have a right to say who can come in here....Christine was right, if they want Big Box move to Ventura and Oxnard area....Look what the developers did to that County...I would hate to see this happen to our beautiful area.. Sincerely, Karen and Rick Clawson 552 Buchon SLO, 93401 From: "aameson" <aarneson@thegrid.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>,<jewan@slocity.org>, <jmam@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulFiolland@slocity,org> Date: Sat,.Feb 3, 2001. 7:17 PM . Subject; Costco No to big box stores. Yes to limits on grocery items: Thanks: A.Armeson 5325 Dulzura_ Atascadero From: Bonnie Ernst<emstb@earthIink.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Sun, Feb 4, 2001 8:22 AM Subject: Costco/SLO Chamber Two Points: 1. Article in Aug. 1998 Tribune says Survey finds little support for "box" retail stores. This survey was conducted by the SLO Chamber of it's members. Question #3 asked: San Luis Obispo should emulate Santa Maria in economic development and city planning. 70% said NO. And 83%said the expansion and retention of existing businesses is the most efficient type of economic development. I am a member of the SLO Chamber of Commerce. I DO NOT support Costco and I don't believe a majority of the members do either. 2. If COSTCO=more sales tax money and more sales tax money= more money for amenities for citizens and more money for amenities for citizens=a more wonderful place to live Shouldn't Santa Maria be the preferred place to live over San Luis Obispo? Good luck on Tuesday. Bonnie Ernst From: James Hilsinger<jhilsing@calpoly.edu> To: "Settle, Allan"<asettle@slocity.org>, "Schwartz, Ken" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Mulholland, Christine" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Ewan, J" <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2,2001 1:03 PM Subject: Big Boxes. I'm not sure if you wanted more in put from the community but I live in SLO and I support the anti-big-box ordinance. :) Goodness is the investment that never fails. From: Paul Wolff<pwolff@calpoly.edu> To: jmarx<jmarx@slocity.org>, asettle<asettle@slocity.org>,jewan <jewan@slocity.org>, cmulholland <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Feb 2, 2001 11:24 AM Subject: Negative addictions Dear Council members: Too much food leads to obesity-a possible life threatening condition. Too much tobacco use can lead to cancer.Too much alcohol and drug use lead to addictions dangerous to one's self and those around us, and too much consumerism and greedy pursuit of top dollar investments and income (for self or city) is leading to a loss of individual and collective values and soul.We have enough supermarkets in this city to meet everyone's needs,tastes, and hopefully pockets (although I'm not sure about that one). Big and medium sized "boxes" are proliferating all over the place. Enough "stuff" already. Let's put more effort into supporting the struggling "little guys"down or around town: there are not many of them left, and they are part of what makes this city unique. It feels as if this community is standing on tracks facing an enormous, oncoming, accelerating engine. Must we all just get out of the way? Marion Wolff cc to Tribune&New Times From: Michael Sullivan <mcsgday @earth lin k.net> To: "Schwartz, Ken" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Settle, Allen" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Mulholland, Christine"<cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Mulholland, Christine" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Ewan,John" <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 10:10 PM Subject: Non residential growth rate 01 Feb 2001 -To All Council Members From Michael C. Sullivan, 1127 Seaward Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 805-545-9614 RE: Dalidio annexation; and proposed city ordinance on "big box" stores An important set of data related to these issues is the non-residential growth rate. The city general plan (land use element section 1.11.4) requires that each year, the council will evaluate the actual increase in non-residential floor area over the preceding 5 years and shall consider establishing limits for the rate of non-residential development if the increase in nonresidential floor area for any 5 year period exceeds 5 percent. Jan Marx suggested I contact John Shoals (Planner) about this, and I did so on 31 Jan 2001, but got no reply. I would like to know if this data set is available and if so, what are the values for the growth rate, and how will this information be used? What are its implications? Are we growing too fast, too slowly, or at about the "right" rate? I request that council obtain and reveal this information as part of the presentation for the hearing of 06 February 2001 (Dalidio annexation/big box ordinance). RE: Proposed limitation on sale of food items/proposed limitation on square footage of big box stores: I strongly support the proposed ordinances. Jan Marx is correct.... Stores such as Costco are not barred by these ordinances.... they can apply for smaller, more reasonably-sized stores. We already have stores in SLO that offer bulk food and household products at discount prices, e.g. Food for Less and Smart and Final. The prices at Food for Less are usually not significantly different from those at Costco. I have lived in San Luis Obispo (city) since 1965. 1 have lived here on a very modest income. I have never been "forced"to drive to Santa Maria or any other place to shop for groceries or household goods. RE: Proposed Dalidio annexation: This annexation is not needed at this time and should be postponed. The people of San Luis Obispo neither need nor want more destruction of prime agricultural areas for the sake of "shopping convenience." There are better ways to achieve the goals of shoppers....We can follow the general plan and build on existing commercial properties (e.g. Madonna Plaza) through re-development schemes, rather than destroying vast areas of the world's best agricultural land. Note that the General Plan states that San Luis Obispo should "emphasize more productive use of existing commercial buildings and land areas already committed to urban development." (Land Use Element of 8/99, p. 8, goal 12) Madonna Plaza had, as of 31 Jan 2001, about 13 vacant store areas, each of about 1000 to 2000 square feet. There is also a "sea of asphalt"at Madonna Plaza that could be used for parking structures and for more intense commercial development of this area. This redevelopment of Madonna Plaza is the first option that should be pursued before we begin wiping out our county's best ag land. A report by the U.S. Geological Survey has determined that in California, about 16%of the state's very best agricultural land has already been wiped out by urban sprawl development. (This info. is avail. at http://biology.usgs.gov.luhna/chap3.html) The situation in California for loss of top-quality ag land is worse than for any other state. The City of SLO will only be contributing to this problem if it approves the Dalidio annexation. Some people think that if the city does not annex, developers will go to the county for permits. This is baloney. Mr. Dalidio must annex, otherwise he cannot get the necessary services to support the size and kind of development he wants. Some have argued that the Dalidio proposal "preserves viable agriculture." This is also baloney. Mr. Dalidio himself cannot make a reasonable enterprise on the 109 acres that are now devoted to crops. When this is further reduced to 50 acres or so, and when the remnant of ag land is completely surrounded by incompatible urban uses (auto mall, residences, stores, parks),the history of productive agriculture at the Dalidio site will have come to an end. Mr. Richard Schmidt of San Luis Obispo has told me that he and other people have spoken with various agencies about preservation of the Dalidio parcel under permanent open space protection through purchase. There is a very real possibility that such an arrangement could come to pass. This is one option which has not even been explored yet. The people of this county have shown that they can rally to protect our most treasured resources..... Consider East-West Ranch in Cambria,the Bishop's Peak open space, the Irish Hills open space, Indian Knob open space, etc. The Dalidio farmland is no less significant that those other open spaces. Please consider this option. The plan for the connection of Prado Road to Madonna Road is a very bad plan from a transportation standpoint. Various traffic engineers (Dave Romero, Eugene Jud, and others) have told me that Prado Road should not be the route for Highway 227, because Prado Road runs adjacent to a residential area (Margarita)and adjacent to the sports fields, school, and park in the Margarita area. The proposed northern alignment of Prado Road creates severe problems of additional congestion due to the extra signal on Broad Street at Prado Road. Prado Road will also eventually have several signaled intersections along its route,causing congestion. Also, Cal Trans usually discourages freeway intersections as closely spaced as Prado would be from Madonna Road (only one half mile), Better alternatives for Highway 227 are Buckley Road,Tank Farm Road, or the extension of Los Osos Valley Road,which are in industrial zoned areas, and could have fewer signals and higher speeds for cross-town travel. The redesigned intersection at Los Osos Valley Road/US 101 could be linked to either Buckley Road or the Los Osos Valley Road extension toward Broad Street. The Dalidio development also is inconsistent with various other sections of the General Plan. For example, policy 6.0.1 (Land Use Element) states that the city gives high priority to preserving agricultural lands near the city. The Dalidio proposal is inconsistent with that goal. Policy 1.8 (Land Use Element) also puts strong emphasis on preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits. The Dalidio proposal is inconsistent with this goal. Please vote for the long-term sustainability of agriculture,for the protection of our well-known open space gateway to the city, for the preservation of the compact form and small town atmosphere that have made San Luis Obispo such a cherished place until now. Please vote "No"on the annexation at this time. Michael C. Sullivan 1127 Seaward St., SLO 93405 545-9614 I From: 'David Moore"-<dwm@onemain.cotn> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 8;31 W Subject Big boxes and drive t_hrus John ; Heres my opinion. No big boxes. No drive thrus. Thanks, David Moore SLO I From: Kerry E Taylor<kkpt@juno.com> To: <dgarth@slochamber.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 9:46 PM Subject: How Would Costo Help Small Businesses? Dear Mr. Garth, I am not a business person or a Chamber Member. I am, however, a SLO homeowner and consumer. If Costco builds a store here, if I need a basketball, I'll go to Costco, not Copelands. If I need a refrigerator, I'll go to Costco not Idler's. If I need a calculator, I'll go to Costco, not Mission Office Supply. This scenario will be repeated over and over with me and other residents of the City. And guess what? These and many other small businesses will be hurt and possibly put out of business. In a recent appearance on KSBY-TV, you focused on the"leakage" of SLO resident's dollars to Costco in Santa Maria. And certainly this would stop if Costco builds a store in SLO. But that will NOT be the only impact. People who currently buy items from existing businesses in SLO will now have a close by, low cost alternative, and they'll take it. If we don't care about that result as a community, we should allow Costco and perhaps a Walmart and a Target. If we do care about our local businesses, we should do what a majority of the Council has supported and that is reasonable laws to protect existing businesses without preventing competition from new ones. Kent Taylor GET INTERNET ACCESS FROM JUNO! Juno offers FREE or PREMIUM Internet access for less! Join Juno today! For your FREE software, visit: hftp://dI.www.juno.com/get/tagj. CC: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> From: Rhonda Riggins <rhorigg @ pacbell.net> To: <jewan @ slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1,2001 2:45 PM Subject: Big Box Stores I am against big box stores of the size Costco wants to build in SLO. I urge you to vote for ordinances that would prohibit such buildings. I am dismayed that Home Depot was shoved down our throats. Rhonda Riggins-Pimentel From: "Diana Waycott" <dwaycott@email.msn.com> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 3:23 PM Subject: Dalidio Project Dear Mr. Ewan, Please don't develop the Dalidio land. We are against this project as the land is more valued to us as agriculture and open space than it is as big-box stores. I don't shop those stores here or anywhere.We don't need them here! We lived previously on the Monterey Peninsula and faced the battles to preserve open space there. San Luis Obispo's charm IS the fact that it has a healthy, appealing downtown and the countryside wraps and infuses the town. Thank you, Diana Waycott (and William, Sarah and Laurel) From: Paul Wolff <pwolff@calpoly.edu> To: jmarx <jmarx@slocity.org>, asettle<asettle@slocity.org>,jewan <jewan@slocity.org>, cmulholland <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 8:38 PM Subject: Two major issues This Council now faces two major decisions that will significantly effect the quality and character of this community which we all fondly call home ! The blatant attempt to rescind last month's passage of the ordinance limiting sales floor space for non-taxable items in large stores should be firmly denied. Of course it will not prohibit"big box " stores. It is, however, totally inappropriate for any private retailer(Cosco) to dictate to any municipality(SLO)the conditions under which they will set up shop. A Commercial enterprise should be required to adhere to the standards ( and scale) of the city in which it wants to operate -not visa versa. Our landscape is littered with irrevocable planning mistakes always rationalized in pursuit of the almighty tax dollar( i.e. southern California). The other major issue that concerns me is the Marketplace proposal which would permanently pave over the acquifer underneath the Dalidio property. At the recent public forum to establish city goals for the next two years, not a single call emerged for more shopping centers ! You did, however, hear numerous pleas for ball fields, open space and affordable accessible housing-all excellent alternative uses for this prime land. Again, some will repeat the shrill cry for more tax dollars now that PG &E may default on some of its tax obligations. Please consider what qualities make this place so attractive. It is not primarily the services that the City provides. If it comes to a duel of values between more shopping tax revenues to support City services and greater preservation of our unique semi rural ambiance, I overwhelmingly endorse the latter. Please vote to preserve, protect and maintain ! Sincerely, Paul M. Wolff, San Luis Obispo From: <JosephAIA@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmanc@slocity.org>, <kschwaratz@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31, 2001 11:14 PM Subject: Preserve DALIDIO DALIDIO THIS PAVING OF PARADISE IS A BAD IDEA Costco is only the beginning of the onslaught to try to pave over SLO. Your legacy to the community should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. The city&• TMs general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1) says: a• telt is the citya• TMs policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits.&• ' Please act appropriately to support that policy. Replacing the important viewshed from Highway101 across the Dalidio Farm to the Morros beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community&• TMs character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. Please protect this working agricultural landscape so that our coummunity does not to end up looking like strip cities to the south where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar sprawl. Joseph Amanzio San Luis Obispo From: Jeff Legato <jlegato @ pacbell.net> To: "Archer Koch (Win &Ware)"<help@WinAndWare.com> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 8:50 AM Subject: RE: costco Archer, I understand your concerns but have to disagree with you on this one my friend. If shopping at costco is such a hassle, (which it is) then why do you do it? Add in all the bullshit like membership fees, long lines, travel and traffic and it actually costs you more to shop there than it does to pay the slightly higher prices here in town. Even if this town had a Costco I bet, given your business situation, you still wouldn't' "save"enough money to cover your annual membership fees and equal out all the headaches associated with a big box store. You see, it's not just saving a little money. That type of store has MAJOR impacts on the immediate area like traffic, pollution, noise, lighting, and they are monuments to ugly architecture. These costs are ones that I personally don't want to pay for every day. Big Box Stores do not belong in San Luis Obispo. This town is special because it is different from all the other typical towns in California. The Downtown is a very special place and this city is extremely unique. Please remember that people live here for these reasons, not for convenient big box shopping. Jeff Legato Crawford Multari &Clark 641 Higuera St. Suite 302 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-541-2622 x17 www.cmcaplans.com hftp://home.pacbell.net/j'legato -----Original Message----- From:Archer Koch (Win &Ware) [mailto:help@WinAndWare.com] Sent:Thursday, February 01, 2001 12:14 AM To:asettle@slocity.org Subject: Costco and objection to proposed ordinance The Honorable Allen Settle Mayor of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm St San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Phone: (805) 781-7417 Fax: (805) 781-7109 e-Mail: asettle@slocity.org Web: http://www.slocity.org/citycouncil.asp Dear Mayor Settle: I am writing to you to express my objection to the ordinance being considered by the City Council, which would prohibit Costco and other such establishments from ever entering San Luis Obispo. As you have neglected the recommendation of your own Planning Commission, as well as the Chamber of Commerce, I am gravely concerned by the suggestion that you are bowing to the political pressures of the anti-competitive supermarket unions instead of putting the best interest of San Luis Obispo first at all costs. I am a business owner in San Luis Obispo, and I am member of Costco. I am tired of driving the 75 mile round-trip to Santa Maria, burning several gallons of gas each trip, spending a considerable amount of unproductive time behind the wheel, and handing over precious tax dollars to our neighbors. Multiply these factors by the thousands of San Luis Obispo residents doing the same thing each month. I do not believe that restricting growth in our town is in the best interest of the majority. As a business owner, I realize the value of competition. Without it,the quality of goods and services declines, while prices rise unchecked. It is important that ordinances be maintained to uphold standards for our community, but they certainly should not be designed to discriminate against competition. I feel that by limiting the overall size of any store,the fine line between creating acceptable community standards and discrimination is crossed. At the 6 February City Council public hearing, I hope that you will reconsider your vote and firmly reject this ordinance. Support our economy by returning over a half-million tax dollars annually to our community. Demonstrate a concern for the environment by reducing wasted fuel and exhaust set into the atmosphere each day as people travel to Santa Maria and back. Support the employment opportunities that will be created. Let thousands of residents benefit from the convenience. Your thorough consideration is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Archer Koch Win &Ware Computer Service When &Where You Need It! Computer System Sales 1241 Johnson Ave PMB 140 San Luis Obispo CA 93401-3306 help@WinAndWare.com <mailto:help@WinAndWare.com> www.WinAndWare.com <htip://www.winandware.com/> (805) 784-0268 Fax (805) 784-9038 BCC: Dozens of San Luis Obispo residents and business owners who encourage to inform you of their own views. CC: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> From: "Don P. Vokal" <bigdon@thegrid.net> To: "Alan Settle (E-mail)" <asettle@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland (E-mail)" <cmulholland@slocity.org>, "Jan Ewan (E-mail)" <jewan@slocity.org>, "Ken Schwartz (E-mail)" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "Myles Kowalck (E-mail)" <pm85@pacbell.net> Date: Thu, Feb 1,2001 9:59 AM Ms. Mulholland may not have been too PC in her comments, but her opinion is in the back of many of our minds.Most of the people who moved here chose the area for its beauty,not commercial availability. I've shopped Cosco in Santa Maria only to come home and find a sale equal to or less than my Cosco purchase.Those who must carefully watch the budget can save hundreds of dollars by using coupons(not accepted at Cosco)and watching sales at our many fine stores. We live in Arroyo Grande. The Walmart shopping area (aside from being an eyesore) has made East Branch roadBrisco Rd.a traffic mess. Come visit us and enter from Oak Park around 4 or 5pm and see your tax dollar at work. We have to fix it-the developer has done his job. When will you elected officials sharpen your pencils and realize that the taxes from these stores hardly pay for the needed infrastructure. Maybe some of you could actually show us citizens a financial report proving the taxes generated will do just that! Your jobs are difficult and we appreciate your efforts. Joanne Vokal Arroyo Grande bigdon@thegrid.net From: "John Garrigues" <johninslo @ hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Feb 1, 2001 1:42 PM Subject: I agree, no Costco in SLO Mr. Ewan, Thank you for defending our quality of life in SLO by voting to limit the amount of floor space devoted to non-taxable sales in big box stores. I wrote to you prior to the recent vote. I just wanted to again express my opposition to Costco or any big box retailers in our community. I hope that you will maintain your current position when the ordinance comes up for a second reading. John Garrigues 1154 Islay St SLO Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: Norm Borin <nborin@calpoly.edu> To: <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <nborin@calpoly.edu> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 8:51 PM Subject: Costco Dear Council Members I am in complete support of the city council's vote on keeping box stores out. I think there is a silent majority of us out there. Many of the Costco supporters live in surrounding cities and probably don't care one way or the other about the quality of fife degradation caused by these types of stores-as long as it is not in their city. In fact, they would all contribute as a result of the additional traffic and congestion they would create when they shop. Norm Borin From: <JosephAlA@aol.com> To: <mail@newtimesslo.com>, <bmorem@thetribunenews.com> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 10:34 PM Subject: Costco the Bully To the Editors, The Tribune The New Times SLO did not reject Costco. Costco rejected SLO's reasonable condition for building here. It is the Costco way, or no way. Costco is now writing its members to support its big bully position at the next Council meeting. Costco will not eliminate occasional drives to shop and dine in Arroyo Grande, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria, unless of course SLO imports copies of the stores and restaurants from those cities. Let's also import the stores from Santa Barbara and San Francisco and make SLO a regional shopping center. This will surely satisfy people's craving for the holy grail of 2• cecheap and convenienta• 'shopping. No one will have to drive out of SLO to shop or dine, ever. People from all over can drive here instead.Think of the huge tax revenues this can produce. But at what cost and sacrifice for the unique quality of life in our community? A Costco on Los Osos Valley Road will increase both cross town traffic and neighboring traffic congestion. Increasing street width and adding traffic lights will sooner rather than later prove inadequate. Nearby residential property values and neighborhood quality will decline. It should be self-evident:when crowded roads are widened,there are soon enough cars to clog them as before. If you think traffic is bad on LOVR and Madonna Road now,just wait. Neighborhood markets will see their income decline and will close. Their employees will lose jobs. Small business owners and their employees will be hurt. These people are our neighbors. They have invested their hopes and dreams in SLOa• TMs economy. Its heartless to ask them to reinvent themselves. We already have local cut rate stores such as Payless, Staples,Trader Joe's, Foods for Less,World Markets, etc.,to satisfy the need for inexpensive shopping. Do we realty need bigger and more of the same? Small towns cannot satisfy every want. To the council I say, don't sell out our community's soul for a few pieces of sliver. Joseph Amanzio 1188 Lexington Court San Luis Obispo Copies: Mayor Allen Settle Vice Mayor John Ewan Councilmember Christine Mulholland Councilmember Jan Howell Marx Councilmember Kenneth Schwartz CC: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwaratz@slocity.org> From: "Gary Gall" <garyyall@hotmail.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 6:34 PM Subject: Costco revote You are all doing the right thing. Please don't give in to Costco. I moved here for what it doesn't have. Thank you, Brenda Gale, Cambria From: "Gary Gall" <gary--gall@hotmail.com> To: <jewan @ slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 6:56 PM Subject: Costco revote Keep up the good work! Please don't give in to Costco's demands. We don't need the congestion. Thank you, Gary Gall, Cambria From: "Diane Kosarko" <cambriadi@hotmail.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwarta@slocity.org>, <sstendahl@ci.sanluis-obispo-ca.usjmarx@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 7:13 PM Subject: Costco revote I don't want or need all the congestion that goes with Costco. You have done the right thing so far. Thank you, Diane Kosarko, Cambria Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: "Diane Kosarko"<cambriadi@hotmail.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 7:28 PM Subject: Costco revote Please vote NO to Costco's demands.We don't need it. Thank you, Diane Kosarko, Cambria Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com From: "Richard James" <rhjames@charter.net> To: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 12:16 PM Subject: Big Box Stores Please do NOT support bringing COSTCO or other big stores to SLO. The new Promenade shows just how ruining they will be to SLO. Richard H James San Luis Obispo From: "Rollie's STMJ Account" <Rollie@ccaccess.neb To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Wed,Jan 31,2001 1:30 PM Subject: Costco Mayor Settle: I am not in support of the pending ordinance that would effectively prevent Costco from locating in SLO. My own slant on this is that it is not the place of the city to draft ordinances that dictate what a given store like Costco can sell. I very much so agree with John Ewan and Ken Schwartz that we do not need "big brother"watching over our retail shoulder. Hopefully, an ordinance of this sort will not hold up in court. I've lived here since 1958 and I too love SLO and do not want to see it go the way of Orange County, however this is not the method I want to see used to hinder competition. The way I see it, whether we want to see "big boxes" locate in SLO is a separate issue. Please reconsider your stance on this issue and put a stop to a terribly wrong ordinance. Thanks for your consideration, Rollie McCormick CC: <jewan@slocity.org> From: <ANCARTER@aol.com> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland®slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 14, 2001 10:56 PM Subject: 1/16 Council Meeting -- Planning Issues I am a homeowner who lives at 1283 Woodside Drive. I am writing about the two planning issues to be discussed at Tuesday's City Council meeting. "Big Box" Planning Ordinance I urge you to vote against this measure because it represents bad public policy: 1) The measure is being advanced by the United Food and Commercial Workers Union as a means of protecting unionized employees at chain grocery stores from nonunion labor at stores like Costco and Wal-Mart. The City should not be entering into a private labor dispute. Please note, I am not anti-union. In fact, I am a member of the faculty union at Cal Poly where I occasionally teach part-time. 2) Supporters of the measure say it will protect"mom and pop"stores in San Luis. (I presume they mean stores like SLO Fresh Market, New Frontiers and Scolari's.) In reality,the measure primarily protects chain grocery stores. These chains are huge corporate enterprises which do not need the City's special help. As background: Vons is part of Safeway which has annual sales of$29 billion. Albertsons has annual sales of$38 billion. Ralphs and Food 4 Less are part of Kroger which has annual sales of$45 billion. (Costco's annual sales are $32 billion. Wal-Mart's annual sales are$165 billion.) 3) The measure is anti-competitive and anti-consumer. Absent issues of public health and safety, the City should not be telling stores what they can and cannot sell. This should be the decision of individual store managers, and individual consumers should be free to decide whether they like the particular product assortment offered. 4) Even if one is against"big box"stores, the measure does little to stop them. It just limits what they can sell. The only"big box"chain the measure is guaranteed to stop is Costco. It does nothing to stop Home Depot, Lowe's,Target, K-Mart, or even Wal-Mart. (Wal-Mart has multiple store formats, and many do not rely heavily on the sale of non-taxable grocery items.) Prado Road Extension What's the old saying about "a camel being a horse created by committee"? The "Northern Alignment" of Prado Road approved by City Council last February seems to fit the same description. I realize I'm largely ignorant of the years of discussion and compromise which have taken place on this issue, but can anyone now explain rationally why Prado Road Extension should swing south and then swing north again? Particularly when, in so doing, it runs between a planned school and a planned sports complex? It seems to me we need to go back to "square one"and examine certain fundamental issues which impact Prado Road. These include: 1) If the Marketplace shopping center is not approved, will a full-service interchange on 101 at Prado Road actually be built? If so, when? 2) Do the plans for the entire Margarita expansion area continue to make sense given the legitimate concerns recently expressed about building under the flight path of County Airport? 3) What are the plans for developing the area to the east of the train tracks between Orcutt Road and Tank Farm Road? Will Prado Road Extension ever cross the tracks to serve that area? Do we want to allow that future possibility? The answers to these questions impact the absolute need for Prado Road Extension, the amount of traffic it should handle, whether it should be two-lane or four-lane, where it should meet and potentially cross Broad Street, whether it will end up becoming State Route 227, and what funding if any the State will therefore provide. Based on the answers, it may or may not make sense for Prado Road to follow the "Tank Farm Road Alignment." It's impossible to know in a vacuum. But even in a vacuum, it seems clear that Prado Road should either stay north of both the school and the sports complex or south of both. It should not run in between them. The current"Northern Alignment" is the worst of all possible solutions. Orcutt Road Railroad Crossing This issue isn't on the 1/16 agenda, but it is, in my mind, indirectly related to Prado Road. If Prado Road Extension isn't going to cross the train tracks any time soon (if ever), we desperately need a bridge or tunnel across the tracks at Orcutt Road. This is a matter of public safety, particularly as pertains the circulation of fire engines and ambulances. Please address this issue. Thank you. Andrew Carter 1283 Woodside Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-594-1906 ancarter@aol.com From: <PMJENNY@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 15, 2001 9:39 AM Subject: SUPPORT COMPETITIVE BUSINESS I encourage you to support the City's Planning Commission and the large majority of residents and voters in this community by REJECTING the special-interest lobby's attempt to block the sale of large volume, non-taxable goods in San Luis Obispo. The proposal to limit the amount of floor space devoted to the sale of non-taxable goods is a blatant attempt to limit our future choices and will have a negative impact on the City and its residents. This is clearly the case of a powerful, corporate special interest trying to legislate away the type of healthy competition on which our free-market economy has long been based. While the proposed ordinance is not directly about the approval of a Costco or any other specific business, it would obviously prevent such companies from doing business in this community despite the benefits they would provide:cost savings on food and prescription drugs for those on limited budgets (including seniors, students and the poor); trip reductions by those many shoppers who now drive to Santa Maria; local jobs for hundreds of workers; and, increased sales tax revenue to support worthwhile City programs like parks, public safety and human relations issues. I urge you to reject this ill-conceived proposed ordinance. Pete Jenny San Luis Obispo From: <PMJENNY@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan®slocity.org>, <cmulholland®slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 9:39 AM Subject: SUPPORT COMPETITIVE BUSINESS I encourage you to support the City's Planning Commission and the large majority of residents and voters in this community by REJECTING the special-interest lobby s attempt to block the sale of large volume, non-taxable goods in San Luis Obispo.The proposal to limit the amount of floor space devoted to the sale of non-taxable goods is a blatant attempt to limit our future choices and will have a negative impact on the City and its residents. This is clearly the case of a powerful, corporate special interest trying to legislate away the type of healthy competition on which our free-market economy has long been based. While the proposed ordinance is not directly about the approval of a Costco or any other specific business, it would obviously prevent such companies from doing business in this community despite the benefits they would provide:cost savings on food and prescription drugs for those on limited budgets (including seniors,students and the poor);trip reductions by those many shoppers who now drive to Santa Maria; local jobs for hundreds of workers; and, increased sales tax revenue to support worthwhile City programs like parks, public safety and human relations issues. I urge you to reject this ill-conceived proposed ordinance. Pete Jenny San Luis Obispo From: Joyce Del Pesco<71602.410@compuserve.com> To: Vice Mayor John Ewan <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 15, 2001 7:10 PM Subject: Costco We strongly object to a Costco in San Luis Obispo From: "Sherry Weipert" <shar@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Jan 26, 2001 12:45 PM Subject: Costco John Ewan, My husband& I wish to thank you for your vote that would have allowed a Costco in SLO. Sincerely, Allen &Sherry Weipert From: "Debora B. Schwartz" <dbschwar@polymail.cpunix.calpoly.edu> To: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>,Jan Marx<janmarx@fix.net> Date: Tue, Jan 23, 2001 2:44 PM Subject: Re: Dalidio Feb. 6 1 understand that the SLO Market Place/Dalidio project comes up before the City Council Feb. 6. 1 feel strongly that this project should NOT be approved. We do NOT need a new 500,000 square foot shopping center on prime agricultural land immediately adjacent to the newly developed SLO Market Place, and just a short distance from Madonna Plaza, a product of the same developer, which sits blighted and nearly empty at an existing freeway exit. (The proposal to have taxpayers reimburse the developer for the proposed $10,000,000 Prado Road interchange which he would be required to build as part of the deal is ludicrous--a give-away of the same tax-dollars which we are told would compensate the city and its citizens for the loss of precious and irreplacable prime agriculatural land and open space.) There is already FAR too much traffic on Madonna as well as on Los Osos Valley Road between Madonna(actually, between Foothill)and the freeway. In the early morning and late afternoon, it is frequently impossible to exit Royal Way onto Los Osos Valley Road EVEN WITH A GREEN LIGHT since traffic is backed up from the Madonna stoplight well past Royal Way. The development already approved and underway on Los Osos Valley Road (Froom Ranch, the De Vaul development--which was approved despite serious environmental concerns and over the objections of residents of the nearest adjacent residential neighborhood--will exacerbate an already extremely serious traffic problem, even if Los Osos Valley Road is widened to four lanes. Since there is no plan to widen the two-lane bridge over highway 101,the bottle-neck will merely be shifted from Madonna/Los Osos Valley Road to the highway entrance and bridge. We do not need more shopping venues in SLO. Alex Madonna still has three slots to fill in his bitterly contested development on Froom Ranch. And we have an existing mall in dire need of renovation (Madonna Plaza). Given the numerous shopping venues already available in SLO and surrounding communities, the last thing that we need is another shopping center drawing traffic to the already traffic-saturated Madonna/Los Osos Valley Road/Highway 101 area. The SLO City Council needs to protect their neighbors and fellow citizens on the Laguna side of town WHO ALREADY FIND THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY TRAFFIC WHICH APPROACHES GRIDLOCK during both the morning and the afternoon rush hours. The Dalidio property should stay in agriculture or open space. I would like to see at least part of it dedicated to permanent open space as an extension of Laguna Lake Park. I would not object to some of it being used for sports fields. The City Council should work for the citizens of San Luis Obispo to protect this rich prime ag land, the underlying acquifer and the viewshed of the Morros from the freeway. If left in agriculture or in open space,the Dalidio land will also continue to work as a natural flood plain, protecting homes and the freeway in times of flooding. (There's a reason why a sign on Los Osos Valley Road near Froom Ranch warms motorists about flooding during rainfall!) I am also uneasy about the proposal to build a hotel/convention/community center on the land between the Post Office and the freeway. While this proposal would bring in Transient Occupancy Tax, I am not yet convinced that this proposed development would meet an unmet need. I would like to hear more about the rationale for this proposal,which I would only want to be considered if there were firm guarantees that the majority of the land would be preserved as open space. Thanks for allowing us to share our views. Debora Schwartz 1667 Royal Way From: <EJVSLO@aol.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <janmarx@fix.net>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 24, 2001 4:23 PM Subject: Dalidio project Dear City Counci members, The Dalidio project is yet again coming up for consideration by the City Council. The Dalidio proposal makes no sense . We do not need yet another new shopping center and a new freeway overpass .The$10 million+of taxpayer dollars can be spent in many more useful ways than what is being proposed. The deal with the developer for the funding of this overpass is a giveaway of public money. It absolutely should not be done. This land has been successfully farmed for decades, even at its present size and with City encroachment. Its soils are some of the best and this is a resource that is not renewable once it is buried in concrete. I support the use of my tax dollars to bring this land into a status whereby farming can continue. It's its best and highest use in my opinion. Thank you for your consideration, Eva J. Vigil From: Valerie Barboza<vbarboza@calpoly.edu> To: <janmarx@fix.net> Date: Wed,Jan 24, 2001 5:10 PM Subject: Re: Dalidio Feb. 6 Jan, I would like to see an alternative to shopping centers. Certainly a plan to protect ag land and the acquirer as well as the views of the Morros will serve us better. I plan to attend the 2/6 meeting. Val Barboza janmarx@fix.net wrote: > Hello Residents, >The SLO Market Place/Dalidio project comes up before the City Council > Feb. 6. What do you want to see done with that land bounded by the > Freeway, Madonna Road, Central Coast Mall and Auto Parkway? > Do you want to see it paved over and a new shopping center(500,000 >square feet) and a new freeway overpass built for$10million of taxpayer > money? Do we need more shopping now? >Or, do you believe that it should stay in agriculture, open space? > Should part of it be devoted to sports fields? These alternatives would >protect the rich prime ag land,the underlying acquifer and the viewshed >of the Morros from the freeway. They also would allow the land to >continue to work as a natural flood plain, which protects the houses >and the freeway in times of flooding. > Other alternatives are to use part of the land to build a >hotel/convention/community center, which would bring in Transient >Occupancy Tax/supply an unmet need. (This could be located between the >post office and the freeway, preserving most of the land in open space). >Or? >What do you think would be the best use for that land? > If you would like to let all the City Council members know,email > addressses are asettle @ slocity.org,jewan @ slocity.org, > kschwartz@slocity.org and cmulholland@slocity.org. >Thank you taking the time to speak up on this vital city issue. >Jan Marx Cal Poly, SLO -Cal Poly, SLO-Cal Poly, SLO Evaluator for International Studies, College of Business, Graduate and 4+1 Blended Programs From: <Henrigroot@aol.com> To: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu,Jan 25, 2001 2:49 PM Subject: dalidio Thanks for asking: There is a point beyond which "in-fill"should no longer be highest priority, but should give way to the virtues of "green space". Certainly prime ag land should be preserved. How about people's gardens for that space?, although just leaving as it is is fine by me too. Could a sport be found for the hotel that would not take up prime ag land? Good luck! Henriette Groot From: "Scott Potter" <spotter@fix.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Jan 25, 2001 3:01 PM Subject: Use of Dalidio Land Our Esteemed Leaders: I live here in SLO right off of LOVR and therefore have an acute interest in the future of Dalidio. I would like to give you my suggestion for what should and should not be allowed to happen on this property. Should Not: a.. More Shopping. Don't we have enough yet? We have that Open air mall there (Mervins, Sears etc)that could be redone if we need more stores, and if we keep building more big box stores,we will become another Santa Maria. We don't need that here. b.. Athletic fields. We have the plan out on Broad Street going on now, that is enough. Should: a.. Possibly a tasteful hotel on a small part of the property b.. A community center or community recreation facility c.. A smaller scale performing arts venue d.. A park that preserves the open space maybe with some public access. You folks are in the position of having a grave effect on the future of this community by outcome of your decision. There is always possibilities of growth in the future. Like lost innocence, once we grow,there is no going back. I urge you to think about this seriously before it is too late. Scott Potter San Luis Obispo Citizen 768 Clearview lane 805.549.8601 From: James Thomas <james660@webtv.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu,Jan 25,2001 3:54 PM Subject: Big Boxes Just a note to inform that my wife and I are in favor of preserving our agricultural land- once it becomes covered by subject items it is lost forever. Jim &Jane Thomas From: Doug Buckmaster<dougb@thegrid.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org> Date: Thu,Jan 25,2001 7:48 PM Subject: Dalidio Property Ladies and Gentlemen of the City Council: Friends of the Ranchland, an organization of over 800 supporters primarily along the North Coast of San Luis Obispo County, urges you to vote to maintain the Dalidio property as a viable agricultural parcel at the southern gateway to your city. The Friends are firmly opposed to the conversion of so much prime agricultural land to parking lots and still another unnecessary, unwanted mall. We are opposed to the loss of the land for flood control purposes, to the loss of invaluable viewshed. That property is unique and must be protected if not in its entirety, at least the majority of the acreage along the highway. The rest might well be used for another hotel which would bring valuable transient occupancy taxes to the city. Sincerely, Doug Buckmaster, President Friends of the Ranchland 1965 Emmons Road Cambria, CA 93428-4551 From: Nancy Reinstein <reinstein@webtv.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Jan 25, 2001 9:28 PM Subject: SLO Market Place/Dalidio project I prefer to see this as agricultural open space. Thank you Nancy Reinstein 1745 Portola St. SLO From: <Packertl@aol.com> To: <jmarx®ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <asettle@slonet.org> Date: Sat,Jan 20,2001 5:25 AM Subject: Big Box Legislation Ms.Jan Howell Marx, Ms. Christine Mulholland and Mayor Settle I wanted to personally thank you all for your support of legislation to curb the size of big box stores and the scope of their operations. Your wisdom and courage have saved us this time. Building freeway interchanges and adding traffic lights never SOLVES the congestion big development creates. It merely means more traffic cannot flow smoothly. And no city in California has had its long term revenue improved by the addition of box stores. The long run costs of dealing with the eyesores their neighborhoods inevitably become, exceeds the tax revenue they contribute. If it were otherwise, every town with big retail centers would be rich and beautiful. None are.That lesson shouldn't be hard to grasp- except for the people lining their own pockets on the deals. Finally, it is the greatest blessing to have an accessible community (Santa Maria) volunteer to be home to these businesses so we don't have to live with them. I want to shop at a Beverages and More,Trader Joe's and others. And Santa Maria is absolutely the perfect place for them.To those who have said they want the convenience of shopping at one in our town, I suggest they drive the neighborhoods of Santa Maria as I did yesterday. I'd be stunned if even one could then say they want Higuera Street to evolve into Broadway's succession of half vacant malls and dead businesses. Anyone willing to accept that truly should take Ms. Mulholland's suggestion and simply move there. Thank you. Thank you. I hope we can count on your continued efforts to preserve the wonder of SLO from those who don'trealize that their shortsighted interests would result in an SLO that looks,feels and smells like anywhere else in California. Sincerely Terrence L. Packer cc Ken Schwartz John Ewan CC: <kschwartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us> From: <JosephAIA@aol.com> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 17, 2001 9:37 AM Subject: Congratulations- no to large Costco! Dear Councilmembers, Thank you for your farsighted votes to limit Costco's size thus helping to retain the unique character of San Luis Obispo as well as protect jobs and income of local businesses and employees.The scope of merchandise offered and size of a Costco is just to overwhelming for SLO. Your proposal for an additional law regulating the size of big-box stores was an added bonus.Thank you. Joseph Amanzio. Costco Member San Luis Obispo CC: <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwaratz@slocity.org> From: "Patrick J. Merrill" <pmerrill @ uclink4.berkeley.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 9:47 PM Subject: Costco letter response SLO City Council - I am writing in response to Costco's bulk letter mailing of Dec. 29, 2000 lobbying for support of its proposed SLO store. 1.) 1 DO NOT appreciate Costco's mailing of the letter. 2.) 1 DO NOT oppose a Costco on the Froom Ranch given one very important action be taken FIRST--The widening of Los Osos Valley Road and a reengineering of the on and off ramps to Highway 101 at Los Osos Valley Road.Without these road improvements,the Costco at that location would be a burden on regular city traffic and on the City itself. Thank you for all your work on the council. It is greatly appreciated. Best wishes, Patrick Merrill 1225 Vista del Lago San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 From: "Denise L.Jenkins" <dljenkins@fix.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz @ slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 29, 2001 10:06 PM Subject: Please choose wisely. Dear Mayor Settle, Vice Mayor Ewan, and San Luis Obispo City Council Members, I'd like to start by thanking you for what you do for our city and community- a paradise we're fortunate enough to call home. I'm sure that a motivation to improve and protect San Luis Obispo is the common ground that brought you to where you are today. As a community member since 1987, and as a transplant from the Silicon Valley, I am very concerned about losing the essence of a place that has felt like home since the moment I arrived. I am fortunate to live and work in such a beautiful place, and I want to keep it in the pristine condition that brought me here. I do not want to see new construction that will undermine the essence of our SLO-town. I do not want to see strip malls, or"big boxes" littering our vistas. I do not want to see CostCo or Home Depot or any other giant chain herein my home, in my view. I am happy to frequent our local stores owned by local community members. To lose what others envy, what others have lost, is pure folly. Can't we learn from the mistakes of others? I'm counting on you to choose wisely for us and for our children. -- Denise Jenkins San Luis Obipso dljenkins@fix.net CC: <sstendahl@ci.san-luis-obispo-ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> From: Warren Gay<wgaycambria@earthlink.net> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org>, <kschartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29,2001 10:31 PM Subject: Dalidio project To the members of the SLO City Council, The decision you make on the Dalidio project will effect San Luis Obispo forever. My experience and observation is that whenever a town builds malls outside the main downtown section of the city, it initiates the slow, painful, devastating and practically irreversible decline of the heart of the city. You have a wonderful vibrant town and an exceptional downtown area that is hard to find anywhere in these modern times. Think carefully before you approve a mall on the edge of town that you don't really need. Warren Gay Cambria From: Christopher Deel <cdeel@calpoly.edu> To: <asettle®slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30,2001 1:17 AM Subject: big-box development Mayor and City Council, I am writing to ask that you support any legislation limiting further 'big-box store' development in San Luis Obispo. My concern is that the proposed new developments (Costco, etc.) on the south side of the city would take business away from our downtown. This would erode the character that makes San Luis Obispo so unique and so popular with residents and tourists alike. It seems to me that losing our downtown would be extremely sad, and anything that threatens our histoic city core is to be avoided. Thank you for your time. Regards, Christopher Deel 1956 Chorro St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: Linda Seeley<Iseeley@pacbell.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmullholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 29, 2001 12:01 PM Subject: Dalidio Property Dear Mayor Settle and Council Members, I request that this letter be included in the full council packet to be presented to the City Council on February 6, 2001. I am writing to voice my support for keeping the Dalidio agricultural property in its present state-that of productive agricultural use. This land is a treasure. I have walked the land;the topsoil is over a foot thick, and the nutritive potential contained in it is immeasurable. According to the city's general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1), "It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." If the land remains zoned agricultural, it could be leased or sold to small scale organic and permaculture farmers who could use the produce of the land to feed the people of our city and the outlying areas. It is conveniently located just adjacent to the thriving farmers' market, and it would be a unique and inviting entrance into our city for travelers as well as residents. I invite you to see verdant fields of fruit trees, ponds and vines, with vegetable, herb and flower gardens interlaced with meandering paths: this is what could welcome all of us into our city. Compare that to the vision of an auto mall, big box stores, and pavement. Which of these possibilities truly inspires you? Please think of future generations. We truly do not need more pavement and plastic. We need healthy air, pure water, clean food for our grandchildren and their grandchildren. If you make this decision, you will be remembered as the city council who truly loved the earth, and you WILL be remembered! Sincerely yours, Linda Seeley 1040 San Carlos Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 From: "Walter"Buck" Rogers" <buckrogers @charter.net> To: "Allen Settle"<asettle@slocity.org>, "Jan Marx" <jmarx@slocity.org>, "Christine Mulholland" <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29,2001 1:54 PM Subject: Thanks for the Vote ! Folks: Although my wife and I were a little undecided regarding the recent Costco issue we would like to thank you for voting in a fashion consistant with our feelings regarding the maintenance of our"small town" atmosphere.We have both lived here for more than 20 years and have watched our population, traffic, crime, gang related activity, smog etc. increase to nearly intolerable levels.We feel it is time to just say no to projects that will increase any of the above. Everyone always says that you must have growth in order to maintain prosperity. We don't think we've ever seen that proven but what has been proven is population growth, no matter how you do it leads to an increase in all of the things listed above. Christine, we're sorry you had to take so much grief for stating in public what we've been thinking for a long time.That's why we voted for you! Walter"Buck" and Jo Ann Rogers San Luis Obispo CC: "Ken Schwartz" <kschwartz@slocity.org>, "John Ewan" <jewan@slocity.org> From: John Dalbey<jdalbey@calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon,Jan 29, 2001 2:14 PM Subject: Please, no Dalidio Dear Council Member, I am writing to express my opposition to the Dalidio Project. I have lived in San Luis Obispo since 1960 and this project is the worst thing ever proposed (next to Madonna's restaurant on the mountain top). I encourage you to support the citys general plan which strives to maintaining viable ag operations within the city. The viewshed from 101 across the Dalidio farm is a unique part of SLO's character and if it is paved over and built up then SLO is indistinguishable from any other southern california metropolis. One of the reasons I live in SLO is because we DON'T have big shopping centers and outlet/chain stores. As a consumer I partronize SLO's small, unique, and independent merchants. Please vote no on this project. Sincerely, John Dalbey 1412 Orcutt Rd San Luis Obispo From: "Shelley Massa" <smassa®optionsccnbc.org> To: <Undisclosed.Recipients@ optionsccnbc.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 3:09 PM Subject: The Dalidio Project Dear Mr. Ewan, Ms. Howell Marx, Ms. Mulholland, Mr. Schwartz, and Mayor Settle: I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna Road is a very BAD idea.. I believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the Morros beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community's character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all need to protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Maria, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA,where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar sprawl. As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses.And on the rare occasion that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it is a small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't think every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities.We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. I moved here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: Request the El be redone.Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever since the first draft (criticisms are printed in the back of the book) Please hold the city staff and the EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits."The legacy of the council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask that you they think of future generations and work to preserve this land. Sincerely, Shelley Massa Los Osos 528-1598 From: Hank& Liz Apfelberg <hankliz@charter.net> To: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 11:14 AM WE ARE AGAINST THIS DALIDIO PROJECT. This wonderful farmland needs to be preserved not destroyed. Please think of future generations, and work to preserve this land. The city's general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1) says: "It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits." Please act appropriately to support that policy. Replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the Morros beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community's character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. You need to protect this working agricultural landscape if our community is not to end up looking like Santa Maria, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar sprawl. As a consumer, we don't think every city needs to have exactly the same chain/box stores as every other city. Having a Target in Paso and Santa Maria is close enough, and we don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have one here too. One of the reasons we love SLO is because the outskirts aren't as UGLY AS THE OUTSKIRTS AS THE CITIES NAMED ABOVE. Please keep us proud of our beautiful unique community. Sincerely, Hank and Liz Apfelberg (30 year residents of the area) 86 Los Palos Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Hank Apfelberg, Professor Graphic Communication Department Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 Phone: 805-756-2500 Fax: 805-756-7118 From: "Heather D.Johnson" <hdtj @ pacbell.net> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cm ulholland @ slocity.org> Date: Sat,Jan 27, 2001 9:03 PM Subject: slo growth I am pleased that we will not have a Costco here in SLO and do hope that you will continue to reject more big box stores in the future.They do not offer options for shopping,just cheapness and traffic.They do not enhance a community and many do not support individual and community efforts to enhance their communities. I have lived in the Bay area for over 30 years and watched them engulf small communities until they were all one big huge traffic jam covered with air pollution. What a terrible legacy. Please do not do this to SLO.The qualities that make this a wonderful place to live are not found in big box stores and in allowing all the farm land to be covered up with shopping centers. Keep the center of SLO downtown, not in mall after mall on the access roads. Thank you, Heather Johnson From: Barbara<batkinson @ thegrid.net> To: <jamrx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kswartz@slocity.org> Date: Sun,Jan 28, 2001 11:32 AM Subject: ag space Dear City Council Members: Rather than have more shopping stores and paved over space, I would like to seethe ranch area behind PO in Madonna area be the following in order of priority: 1. Open space/sports field 2. A hotel/convention/communitycenter with open space area Thank you for your time. Barbara Atkinson, SLO resident From: <Hopedance@aol.com> To: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kswartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Jan 27,2001 1:56 PM Subject: SAVE THE FARMLAND Dear council members and Mayor, Please do whatever is possible to keep Dalidio as farmland! thanks Bob Banner Publisher of HopeDance POB 15609 SLO 93406 <A HREF="http://www.hopedance.org">hopedance web site</A> From: Gregory Montijo<gjmontijo@earthlink.net> To: <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jmarx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kswartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Sat, Jan 27, 2001 5:51 PM Subject: dalidio plans stop it! we don't need the development. As you suggested some years ago in your planning class, Allen, cities are disturbingly created in such a way as to require competitive rather than cooperative models...... San Luis is disappearing..... Walmart has broken promises so many times (remember when they told Lompoc that another Walmart would not be built within 50 miles?...... then Santa Maria, A.G., Paso....... Ernie has enough money, doesn't he? What about the conservation thing i was encouraged to persue as i was completing school at calpoly(MCRP)? Something else: a prominent real estate broker was questioning why we are laying off teachers...... because of Diablo money has dried up? He was wondering if the taxes from real estate sales and taxes, which have been moving up rapidly, are considered when the bean counters declare a financial disaster for the school district? And at Madonna and Los Osos? What the hell is the thinking on that? Money? Not level of service for roads, and especially not the air quality, or quality of life for san luis obisbo residents...... who's going to be the first to say enough? greg montijo gjmontijo@earthlink.net From: <MAlter1011 @aol.com> To: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Fri, Jan 26, 2001 11:14 AM Subject: SLO Market Place/Dalidio Project Honorable Mayor and City Council Representatives I support maintaining the prime ag land bounded by the 101 freeway, Madonna Road, Central Coast Mall and Auto Parkway. I believe that it should stay in agriculture or some type of open space such as sports fields.'These alternatives would protect the rich prime ag land,the underlying acquifer and the viewshed of the Morros from the freeway.'They also would allow the land to continue to work as a natural'flood plain, which protects the houses and the freeway in times of flooding. On Feb. 6 1 strongly urge you to vote in favor of protecting this land. Thank you, Marcia Alter From: "VIRGINIA BASS" <virg@slonet.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Mon, Jan 29, 2001 4:04 PM As a recent transplant to SLO from Nashville,Tennessee, a once-beautiful small city that is now a soul-destroying mish-mash of wall-to-wall shopping malls and parking lots, spilling out from the city in a vast, every-growing sprawl, I can't believe that putting stores on the Dalidio Property is even under consideration. We have no dearth of stores in the general area, but beauty is at a premium everywhere, and we are incredibly lucky to have kept urbanization at bay in SLO up until now. All that could change rapidly if the outskirts of Town are yielded up to developers. It is easy to destroy a citys beauty and character in a few years, if the line is not drawn early on, and I hope and pray that you and the other city councilors will be a voice for preservation of the Dalidio property and other green space surrounding our city rather than complicit in their destruction. Virginia Bass From: <MerriamK@aol.com> To: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 9:50 AM Subject: Dalidio Project Dear Mayor and San Luis Obispo City Council Memebers: I am writing to express to you my adamant opposition to the Dalidio Project development. I believe that the Dalidio project will continue the current trend of bad planning related to the expansion of SLO. What I see around the City are failed developments, such as the Madonna Plaza and the old Broad St. Von's, that leave a legacy of concrete &asphalt, while new schemes blaze away at creating more concrete and asphalt for one more facility that is not needed. The new Gottschalk development promised to give us more. In fact it gives us only more of useless trinkets. We don't save money at these places- although that is the illusion that is projected. Instead, "need"for consummables is being "created"at our expense. Is that what we value? Is that what SLO needs? I don't think so. In any case, I believe it is important to preserve the Dalidio land as Ag and Open Space land- not to be paved over. It is the visual Gateway to our town and must reflect our values. Please represent the "better self" of our community and prevent this project from going forward. Sincerely, Karen Merriam 544-6628 From: Ingrid Reti <ireti@calpoly.edu> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Wed, Jan 31, 2001 9:44 AM Subject: Dalidio/SLO Marketplace Dear Councilman Ewan, As due to a teaching commitment I will be unable to attend the Council Meetting on Tuesday, February 6, 1 am writing this e-mail to urge you to vote against turning this prime agricultural land into a shopping center. Instead vote for preserving this land as farm/open space. We don't need another shopping center. We do need to preserve open space. To put it more bluntly save the Dalidio from development! Sincerely, Ingrid Reti 1650 Descanso Street San Luis Obispo 93405 From: "nancy@HostPro" <nancy@noisemanagement.org> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30, 2001 2:36 PM Subject: Against Costco Greetings - I am 100% AGAINST the Costco coming to San Luis Obispo. Just a simple note to let you know how the community thinks. Sincerely, Nancy Taylor From: <XREDBOOK@aol.com> To: <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 3:51 PM Subject: Costco, et al My wife& I have lived on Montrose Drive in San Luis for nearly eleven years. 'We came here for the reasons typical of many escapees from Los Angeles: uncongested streets, a beautiful downtown, quiet neighborhoods, low crime rate. * I am sure we don't need to remind you how unique this city is. 'There are very few cities left which have not taken the lure of big development and lost everything that made them a delightful place to live.*It obviously doesn't happen with the first big box store you authorize. 'But approving the first somehow makes approval easier for the next. * The right of property owners to develop is clear. *But the right of this city to maintain its character must not be violated in doing so.'Large stores will ultimately destroy our downtown and the small town atmosphere we now enjoy. Incidentally, we are one family who doesn't mind the 40 minute drive to Santa Maria when we shop Costco: we like coming home. * Please do everything you can to block the entry of big box stores from San Luis. Thank you.........Dick&Jan Browne**(xredbook@aol.com) **391 Montrose Drive" From: Norm and arlene<norm.arlene@thegrid.net> To: <jewan®slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30,2001 7:08 AM Subject: Costco: Please a NO VOTE Please vote no to this project. I lived in Valencia, Ca. until 1995 then moved to Morro Bay.The uncontrolled growth of Valencia destroyed the area that was once a great place to live now has traffic problems, box stores where once onion and corn fields. I am not against growth, for responsible growth the puts all the BOX stores in one place. Sincerely, Norman Mayer From: "slokarg" <slokarg @email.msn.com> To: <jewan@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30,2001 7:53 AM Subject: Box stores Dear Councilor, Don't cave in to Madonna and the big boxes! Robert Karger San Luis Obispo From: "mary" <mary.gibbs@comdev.cc> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 30, 2001 8:47 AM Subject: COSTCO and other BOX STORES in SLO... City Council Members and Officials, Thank you for your recent votes AGAINST Costco and (the whole premise of) box stores in SLO. Santa Barbara and Carmel didn't have to go that route for"growth", and I don't think SLO does either. Box stores, as is widely known, do not return revenue to the local community as do other locally held retail establishments. While at the same time, they out compete the local establishments by profiting only pennies on the dollar -a retail strategy based on a nation-wide distribution and retail presence. Retail establishments owned and operated by SLO-citizens cannot compete with this and make a living. Therefore, the long term effect of box stores coming to town will be lower property values starting with retail property and continuing into the housing market itself. Box stores also add too much traffic to one location and they are an eyesore due to their size. Even the new Ralphs on Madonna, although tastefully architected, is an eyesore based on its size alone. Please, I urge you to continue to OPPOSE box stores in SLO. They're bad for the community and bad for local business. Thank you for your time, Mary Gibbs Computer Engineer, and a Concerned SLO Citizen From: <wgooch @ co.slo.ca.us> To: <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Tue,Jan 30,2001 8:51 AM Subject: Dalidio Property John Ewan,Jan Howell Marx, Christine Mulholland, Ken Schwartz and Allen Settle City Hall, 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 John Ewan,Jan Howell Marx, Christine Mulholland, Ken Schwartz and Mayor Allen Settle, I believe that the paving of the 130 acres of prime farmland between Highway 101 and Madonna Road is a very unwise idea. I believe that replacing the important viewshed from Highway 101 across the Dalidio Farm to the Morros beyond with shopping centers and car dealerships would destroy a unique part of our community's character and make San Luis Obispo just like any other sprawling city along a freeway. We all need to protect this working agricultural landscape otherwise our community will end up looking like Santa Maria, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo or LA, where prime farmland has all been covered over by similar sprawl. As a consumer, I prefer to shop locally and support our small local businesses. And on the rare occasion that I do feel a need to shop at a big box store, I am willing to drive to one of the big box stores; it is a small price to pay to preserve our community. I don't believe every city needs the same stores as neighboring cities.We don't need to pave the world's best farmland to have more places to shop. I moved here because I love San Luis Obispo and because we DON'T have all the big box stores. I request that you: Request the EIR be redone. Critics have been saying it needs lots of work ever since the first draft(criticisms are printed in the back of the book) Please hold the city staff and the EIR consultant accountable for the job they are paid to do. Act appropriately to support the policy in the general plan (Land Use Element Policy 1.8.1):"It is the city's policy to encourage preservation of economically viable agricultural operations and land within the urban reserve and city limits."The legacy of the council should be preservation of this wonderful farmland, not its destruction. I ask that you consider future generations and work to preserve this land. Sincerely, Watson Gooch /-os Dsos From: <glea@calpoly.edu> To: <asettle@slocity.org>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <jmarx@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org> Date: Tue, Jan 16, 2001 4:04 PM Subject: SLO Development Dear City Council Members: As a member of the San Luis Obispo community for 20 years, nothing distresses me more than to witness the demise of our unique city. The loss of our "boutique" businesses is a tragedy...a tragedy that has happened only because of greed disguised in the name of convenience and brand name recognition. Now,that same greed threatens our already wobbly infrastructure and offers us nothing but the endless repitition of big boxes much as the hills east of Pismo Beach are an endless wasteland of little boxes. Will those boxes make the spirit soar the same way a view of the Irish Hills does? It seems the spirit, and so each one of us, is the real loser in this game of material gratification. Please, please search your hearts. Listen for the truth. Then do the right thing and help preserve what remains of our beautiful and unique San Luis Obispo. Thank you, Gabrielle Lea From: "Dean A. D!Sandro" <ddisandro@epcweb.com> To: <jmarx@slocity.org>, <asettle@slocity.org>, <jewan@slocity.org>, <kschwartz@slocity.org and cmulholland@slocity.org> Date: Thu,Jan 25, 2001 4:38 PM Subject: Dalidio Proposal Dear Council Members: Re: Proposed Dalidio Development Initial disclosures FYI: I am NOT a resident of San Luis Obispo city, but I am a resident of this county(outside of Paso Robles). I am an experienced real estate professional, yet I tend toward an amalgam of libertarian/green thinking. A few things I do know: If any development takes place on that site, the sub-dividers and developers MUST be required to pay for all of the costs and mitigations associated with the project. NO TAXPAYER FUNDS should be used for a freeway overpass or anything else. That is only fair. If any uses (including AG!) will use more water than would otherwise naturally fall onto their site (and theoretically re-charge the aquifer pro rata [net]), then they should not be allowed to build unless and until they can replenish the shortfall (and the developers must be solely responsibile for these costs). Perhaps instead of storm drains they can install large storage tanks, onsite treatment systems, etc. Ditto for waste water. I would never presume to tell them HOW to reach this desired result... but we have every right to DEMAND that they pay their own costs, deal with their own messes, and avoid polluting (or seizing more than their pro-rata share of) common assets (e.g., air,water, etc.). Once the discussions are framed in these terms ("he who benefits most directly, pays most directly"), I believe discussions can become quite rational (but greed will still beget passion). Everyone will need to give a little (i.e.,there will no °protection" of the Morro"view-shed" if the developers can and will meet all of the other reasonable development criterion; and the other hand,the developers' argument that the comunity should pay some of these development costs or otherwise suffer in order to have the "benefit" of this for-profit project is spurious at best). We must face it:The world is changing. Resources are finite, in fact limited. Our understanding of our inter-connections are growing. And the cost-shifting games of the past are no longer acceptable. This is a nation built on the proise of freedom and property rights... but it is also built on the dream of justice. Do not take away a land owners freedoms arbitrarily; but also do not let them make taxpayers and neighbors their servants. There is an easy and clear philosophical and practical balance if solutions are what we truly seek: A balance of Liberty& Responsibility! Discuss, negotiate and vote upon the Dalidio project from this perspective and the "good guys and bad guys" (as well as good and bad arguments) will become quite obvious to the interested (read: "voting") public. Thanks for listening. Dean A. DiSandro 805-238-3853 From: <Hopedance@aol.com> To: <hopedance@omnipost.com>, <hovitt@co.slo.ca.us>, <mryan@co.slo.ca.us>, <ppinard@co.slo.ca.us>, <kachadjian@co.slo.ca.us>, <sbianchi@co.slo.ca.us>, <tseeger@co.slo.ca.us>, <iawinn@pacbell.net>, <jewan@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <cmulholland@slocity.org>, <jamrx@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <kswartz@ci.san-luis-obispo.ca.us>, <asettle@slocity.org> Date: Thu, Jan 18,2001 7:28 PM Subject: IRELAND BANS SUPERSTORES From Craig Anderson, a timely post that deals with the acceptable square footage of retail stores in Ireland <craig@lesstraffic.com> Subject: FW: IRELAND BANS SUPERSTORES Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001 10:28:44 -0800 IRELAND BANS SUPERSTORES The Irish government has made permanent a temporary cap on the size of retail stores in effect since 1998. The new law restricts stores in the Dublin area to 3,500 square meters (38,000 sq.ft.) and applies a 3,000 square meter(32,000 sq.ft.) limit to the rest of the country. The policy also requires that new retail stores be located in town centers. If no sites are available, and the development is deemed necessary by local authorities,then it may be located on the edge of the town center(defined as within 'convenient walking distance of the primary shopping area of the town centre"). Out-of-town retail developments are strongly discouraged. The policy was issued by the Ministry for the Environment and Local Government. Its purpose is to foster sustainable development, maintain competition, ensure that retail outlets are readily accessible by public transit, and protect the viability of town centers. The policy applies to grocery stores and "hypermarkets,"which, like U.S. supercenters, sell both food and general merchandise. Non-food warehouse stores, such as do-it-yourself home centers, are restricted to 6,000 square meters under existing law. Unlike the U.S.,where land use is strictly a state and local matter, Irish planning policy is determined at both the national and local level. The national government establishes broad policies and guidelines, which are implemented through plans developed by local governments. The policy outlines the importance of town centers as focal points for community and civic activities, and notes that these functions cannot be replicated by shopping malls. Moreover,the long-term viability of town centers depends on maintaining their commercial base. "Where new developments compromise[downtown vitality],they should be rejected," the policy states. The policy also stipulates that local governments should enact zoning policies that safeguard local shops, provided that they substantiate the importance of such stores to the community. In preparing the policy,the government commissioned a study by Goodbody Economic Consultants, who concluded that"available evidence suggests that economies of scale are exhausted at a store size of approximately 2,000[square meters]." Developers and chain retailers lobbied intensely for an easing of the size cap in the months leading up to the Ministry's final decision. They were joined in their opposition by the Irish Competition Authority, which contends that larger stores would reduce prices. Studies, however, have found that grocery prices in the Republic are 5 percent lower than in England and Northern Ireland, which have few restrictions on large-scale chains. Indeed, the Irish grocery market is robustly competitive compared to most of its heavily consolidated European neighbors. Independent grocers enjoy a 45 percent market share in Ireland, up 10 percent in the last decade. By comparison, independents have only 8 percent of the English market. Limiting the size and location of new retail stores has become increasingly common as communities look for ways to maintain their character and local economies. Dozens of U.S. cities have enacted size caps. Many countries have them as well, including Norway, France, Denmark, and Argentina.>>