HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/15/2019 Item 9, Czech (2)
From:Genevieve Czech <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:790 Foothill appeal and Baerbara Kautz's observations
'Tis Monday, midday, 14th January, and the correspondence from our City Attorney, Ms. Dietrick, is meant to be
providing Barbara Kautz's observations on the 790 Foothill density considerations in reply to the appeal lodged against
the Planning Commission. 1) The attachment is not showing on my computer; 2) Aside from the legal debate
surrounding the interpretation of density bonus exemptions, the essence of the debate remains above legal minutiae,
but rather in the spirit of the law. The view shed of Bishop Peak is a legacy to be preserved, not obscured, as one of the
identifying landmarks of San Luis Obispo. Further, the objective of the developer is transparently to erect an off-campus
dorm facility for Cal Poly, with a gesture of affordable housing that is minimal in its contribution to our city's housing
crisis. It is another example of the City yielding to developer pressure, courting Cal Poly in its accommodation interests,
ignoring the fiasco of 22 Chorro which in its initial and subsequent Council hearings was conducted in like manner, with
"Our hands are tied" pretense.There is no justification for the 4 story project as it stands, and recommendations to
modify have been presented to both the City and the Council, which will both preserve the project as such, but more
importantly the view shed of Bishop Peak, a gift to our City in its majesty, and a gift to regulated accessibility by the
Ferrini family. It is a gift to posterity, and the 790 Foothill development is a project designed by a developer whose
interests are not for posterity, but rather his immediate financial gain.
Clearly, the City has hired a legal rebuttal to an appeal to protect their agenda. However, the Council has the power to
listen to a more resonant voice that has no personal interest other than for the general well being of the Foothill area of
the city, and for the long term well being of San Luis Obispo.
Were the Council to read the correspondence from Mr. Alan Cooper, and answer his salient points, adopt his
recommendations (cheaper than hiring a lawyer to promote the City staff agenda) , demonstrate their pledge to work
together with the neighborhoods and residents, then the Council would earn the trust and respect it desires.
Respectfully, Genevieve Czech, San Luis Obispo
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