HomeMy WebLinkAbout06_28-29_2017 PC Correspondence - Avila Ranch (Valentine)June 22, 2017
Dear Planning Commission:
I am writing in support of the Avila Ranch housing proposal. As a citizen, a Board member of
Friends of 40 Prado, and a retired Superintendent of the San Luis Coastal School District, I see
substantial benefits in this project for our community.
In the general sense, it is encouraging to see an intelligent growth plan that recognizes the
realistic need to accommodate workforce housing while showing care for the unique
environmental character of our community.
At a more specific level, I am pleased with the plan to open up affordable housing that allows
families who work here to live here. I am especially pleased with the 42 units of inclusionary
housing which will put the dignity of home ownership within the reach of folks formerly shut out
of that market. Both factors address our community-wide concern over housing shortage.
We know, however, that any plan for growth is incomplete without a thoughtful consideration of
environmental impact. The details for Avila Ranch include sustainable energy sources, traffic
flow improvement, parks, bike paths and open space. These come as an obvious result of
citizen input and reflect a functional understanding of community interests and expectations.
I would be remiss in failing to mention the benefits this project holds for our schools and the
children of our community. With the impending closure of Diablo Canyon, San Luis Coastal
faces a shift and reduction in its funding sources. In the future, without the advantages of the
Diablo Canyon property tax base, the district will be funded through a per-pupil dollar
allocation. The addition of families with children will bring revenue into the school district at a
time when it has the capacity to handle expansion and a vested interest in doing so. It would
also be wonderful if more of our teachers could live here.
Housing growth is a multi-faceted issue. I believe it is clear that we need to plan for growth in
in careful well-measured ways. As I look at the Avila Ranch proposal, I see the kind of planning
we need to expect and want to encourage. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ed Valentine