This information is provided by the candidate
I am running for City Council because Los Altos Hills is the most important place on earth for me. The choices and decisions that are made in our Town have the greatest impact on my "quality of life" and on YOURS.
Each day I see changes that cumulatively threaten the natural beauty, the spacious views and the tranquil neighborhoods that drew me to this community. Do you realize that:
- The Housing Element of the General Plan identified 546 acres of vacant or sub-dividable land, with 93 parcels and a potential for 218 new homes! In addition, many of the homes built in the past have development numbers that can double the size of the present home.
- New fire regulations require 14-foot wide driveways with large paved turnarounds that are currently allowed to be in the setbacks, dramatically reducing the open space between homes.
- New homes are stretching from setback to setback, sited next to each other. We are rapidly losing the space between homes.
I have been involved in Town government for over a decade. As a major contributor to the Design Guidelines, which are a pictorial review of our codes, the Housing, and Scenic Highways Elements of the General Plan, and a member of the Planning Commission for 6 years, I have gained the skill and knowledge to protect the quality of our open space and preserve the value of our property and our neighborhoods.
I am concerned about proposals that would threaten our unique pathway system.
- A recent survey taken by a research firm asked homeowners around the country to rank the desirability of 28 amenities. As reported in the San Francisco Examiner on December 7, 1997, "walking paths, trails, parks and nature preserves topped the list"(of desirable amenities for neighborhoods).
- Our pathway system is designed to provide for our circulation and recreational needs. The on-road paths are our sidewalks. Our off-road trails connect neighborhoods, enable our children to get to school safely, and provide recreational uses. In case of emergencies such as fire or earthquake, they provide an alternate way for you and your family to get to safety.
- Our pathways contribute greatly to what remains of the rural character of the Hills.
As a Pathway Committee member for 7 years and a contributor to the Pathway Element of our General Plan, I have the knowledge and commitment to preserve and enhance our pathway system. As a Planning Commissioner I have the sensitivity to the needs of both neighbors and developers to understand how careful we must be before adding new paths.
Whose interests are served by the proposal to do away with our Planning Commission?
- The Planning Commission is YOUR protection when development happens next door or in your neighborhood. Staff review of new homes does not include consultation with neighbors. It is at Planning Commission meetings that neighbors are notified and their concerns are considered.
- City Councilmembers have many responsibilities and outside commitments. The Planning Commission follows the guidelines set by the council and has the time necessary to protect your property values and your neighborhood.
- Elimination of the Planning Commission removes your ability to appeal decisions.
As a Planning Commissioner for 6 years, I understand the different roles of Planning Commission and Council and the importance of keeping them separate. Developers may wish to merge these roles, but splitting these responsibilities protects YOU.
I have the skills and knowledge to preserve the vision that makes the Hills such a desirable place to live. I have the time and energy to do the job. I want to preserve your town.
I need your vote!
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