HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-21-2017 Item 17, VanderhoofCOUNCIL MEETING: A-2-/-/? RECEIVED
ITEM NO.: MAR 21 2017
From: Brent Vanderhoof [
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 8:35 AM
To: E-mail Council Website <e_mail_councjl@slocity.or >
Subject: Open Space Hours of Use Study Session
SLO City Council,
I will not be able to attend tonights Council meeting, but would like to express my thoughts (attached) as a
resident of SLO in regards to item 17 on tonights agenda: Study Session for Open Space Hours of Use
Evaluation.
Cheers,
Brent
SLO City Council,
Thank you for being willing to take a look at expanding the hours of use for SLO's ever -
popular open space trails. As an avid trail runner and hiker whose life was transformed
from a 40 year old somewhat overweight smoker into one of trail running's biggest
advocates, -due largely in part to SLO's extensive trail system -I encourage you to look at
SLO's Open Space Policy from my perspective. I'm one of many of SLO County's long
distance trail runners who regularly runs 50+ miles on the trails a week, who also works a
full time job, and has many other commitment; so having access to the trails before and
after work is especially important to my training and way of life. While I can enjoy the trails
on the weekend for the majority of my training, it's necessary to get out there during the
week as well; which means at Sam or after work.
I understand the City's policy about preserving its open space primarily for protection of
natural resources and wildlife, however I ask you think about the people who choose to live
in the area because of the amazing opportunities we have to be alive outdoors. I, along with
most of my trail running friends, aren't just users of the trails, but we are stewards. We are
members of the organizations who build most of the trails, we donate to environmental
causes because we appreciate nature and wildlife, we volunteer to help build trails, we pick
up trash while running or hiking, etc.; we protect what we love.
I'm not asking for a 24/7 pass to do whatever we want, but I would ask that you consider
expanding hours of use (with exception of Bishops Peak) so hiking Cerro San Luis at Sam
with my friends isn't a crime, or my friend who lives adjacent to Irish Hills could take his
kids on an early evening run after dinner. In my opinion, being healthy and active should be
encouraged, not vilified. Allowing trail use from Sam-9pm would allow myself and many
others the ability to stay active throughout the week, experience how quiet and beautiful
the night sky is while the city is still asleep, while still providing one third of each day as a
sanctuary for our beloved wildlife. If these hours don't seem acceptable, please allow us to
continue the conversation so we might find a balance that works for everyone.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Brent Vanderhoof
San Luis Obispo