HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-27-2016 PC Agenda Correspondence Item 2 (Small)Meeting: Trvot
7A r
Item:
RE: 1101 Monterey Street Project: Firestone and Parker
Planning Commissioners -
We are the residents of San Luis Obispo and this is our City. Most of
us do not want 75 foot tall buildings. Anywhere. That height exceeds
what the City of Santa Barbara allows, a City twice our size. Santa
Barbara has turned down submissions exceeding 60 ft., their building
height limit.
The zone that these developers are currently proposing to build in allows
a maximum height of 45 ft. Perhaps these developers want a 60 ft. tall
structure but have submitted a higher building in order to "negotiate"
down to what they want. But please do not allow these developers to go
over the maximum zoned height of 45 ft.
Developers have been told by City Staff that upper Monterey (Santa
Rosa north) will be rezoned. But let's wait until we residents have had
our input on this proposed zone change.
Do not be seduced by proposals that precipitate rapid changes in our
community. San Luis Obispo's quality of life depends on slow
incremental change that occurs over a reasonable period of time. And be
aware of the cumulative impacts of the many tall building projects
coming before you. All of these excessively large projects are being
crammed into a very short time -line.
You, the City Council and the Chamber of Commerce should know
better. You should appreciate wise and gradual growth as you all know
what has drawn tourists to San Luis Obispo. These tourists keep
returning because this town and location has remained special for many,
many years. Both residents and tourists don't want a big city atmosphere
where tall buildings block views of the foothills and mountains.
Yes, there is a small minority of residents and non - residents who support
rapid development and tall buildings because they are focused on the
"bottom line ". Some architecture firms, lander owners, builders and
members of the Chamber want rapid growth. But wouldn't it be better if
the Chamber represented the small business community instead? These
small businesses will be competing against an already saturated market
of new, large retail developments like this. Already many storefronts are
going empty so how many more mixed -use developments with even
more store fronts can we sustain?
If our Commissions and Council don't protect what is special in this
community then you and they will get what you deserve. But as
residents, we don't deserve this!
Camille Small
San Luis Obispo, CA