HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/16/2018 Item 9, C Smith
From:carolyn smith <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:City Council Meeting - January 16th - Item 9 - Night time Biking/Hiking
Mayor Harmon and Council Members:
I debated on whether or not to send you this e-mail opposing the use of our Natural Reserve for night-
time hiking and biking, because I heard from some residents that the majority of the council had
already made up their minds. I would like to believe that that is not the case since it would be an
affront to many of your constituents who have sent in e-mails, personally spoken with you, and to
those who will be speaking at tomorrow evening's meeting. While several on council have already
expressed they are in favor of this pilot program, I would expect, as I would with any elected officials,
that you would have an open mind, be willing to respectfully weigh all of the concerns expressed, not
be afraid to see this issue in a new light, and even be willing to change your mind before making a
final decision.
Besides the obvious negative effects on wildlife and flora, there is another important reason to not
approve of this pilot program. It has been well known to all that Open Space acquisition and
preservation has been and continues to be the primary concern and focus of most of our city
residents. Many surveys throughout the years, including those during the LUCE Update, prove this
fact. Additionally, over the years, many have voted for additional sales taxes in Measures Y and G
primarily based on the fact that the city assured voters those funds would be used toward those
efforts. The current proposed pilot program to allow night hiking and biking on Cerro San Luis Natural
Reserve is a complete reversal of the city's commitment in those measures and will have a chilling
effect on any renewal or new tax measure that comes before the voters of SLO in the future. Please
don't misjudge the many residents who are very passionate about preserving our Natural
Reserves. You will need our support in the future.
Please do not approve this pilot program.
Carolyn Smith
SLO City Resident
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