Progressive City Planning

By Myrna L. de Vera

I will continue working toward realizing the progressive vision of smart growth, transit-oriented, new urbanism-designed and sustainable city that would one day evolve into a destination.

I will propose the following:

1. The Intermodal Transit Station and the Waterfront should be top priority among the projects since its construction and operations will stimulate economic activity and is the key to transforming Hercules from a sleepy bedroom community to a dynamic destination.

2. Monitor closely the scheduling and timely construction of other proposed projects such as the New Town Center, Hilltown, Sycamore Crossings. The city council must direct staff to demand accountability from developers who delay or back out of their contractual obligations.

3. Comprehensive review of the General Plan, the document that encapsulates the city's planning vision. The last complete rewrite of the General Plan was made twelve years ago on September 1998. The Housing Element was revised in February 2003, as required by the State of California, and the planning staff is currently working on a more updated housing element. The Hercules General Plan has been changed "piecemeal" as development projects needed the changes for approval of its EIR and Initial Planned Development Plans. A comprehensive review of the General Plan is essential, considering the changes in building ordinances, technology, smart planning trends, real estate market trends, and the economic climate.

4. Adopt a formal Green Building design and sustainable policy for all future developments to help protect our environment. Support the continuation of the Sustainability Subcommittee.

5. Completion of the multi-use (hiking and biking) Bay Trail through Hercules and development of dedicated bike lanes throughout Hercules. Propose better collaboration with Pinole and Rodeo to focus on completion of mutual projects such as the Bay Trail.

6. Consistently conduct community meetings and workshops before all design reviews and public hearings to actively engage the residents in the planning process.

7. Land use issues and any changes to development plans should be vetted by the planning commission, including the design of parks, before obtaining formal approval from the city council.