Generally, I like this idea. Practically, though, the city needs to be sure to include the important information, or some folks will accuse them of hiding things and it will actually erode trust, rather than build it.
In the item about the error on the ballot statements for example, the City Clerk said it will cost as much as $6,600 to fix. That should be in the wrap up ... I'd also included information about the planned triathlon that will cut through town on September 25, causing some street closures and shutting down Ortega in both directions east of Antonio ...
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In an effort to keep our citizens informed of the actions your City Council takes in the interest of the community, I am once again providing a general recap of Tuesday's City Council meeting.
Last night, my council colleagues and I, acting as the Redevelopment Agency Board of Directors, directed staff to obtain an appraisal of Lower Rosan Ranch in order to accept proposals for the site. Lower Rosan Ranch is a 16.48-acre Redevelopment Agency-owned property nestled just north of Stonehill Drive. The City wants to sell or lease the vacant property to help stimulate the local economy and has been approached over the last few years by several entities, including Home Depot, that have expressed an interest in developing the site.
We were also delighted to receive a City flag back from Marine Gunnery Sergeant Joseph Morales, who flew it at different points of conflict in Afghanistan. Former Mayor Dr. Londres Uso, who joined us last night, gave Sgt. Morales the flag before he deployed overseas as a symbol of San Juan Capistrano's endless support for its selfless Marines. I was honored to accept the flag back from this dedicated Marine and his wife, Katia, and daughters, Kamille, and Josie. It will be placed in a shadow box to hang in city hall.
My colleagues and I adopted a resolution confirming a correction to resolutions (11-02-15-02; 11-02-15-03; 11-02-15-04) and the Ballot Label for Measure B, which voters will consider in a Special Election June 7. After the Voters' Information Pamphlet was mailed by the Registrar of Voters, an error was found in the ballot label and impartial analysis indicating that the Distrito La Novia-San Juan Meadows project is located "west" of Valle Road, when in fact it is located "east" of Valle Road. The Registrar of Voters was able to make corrections to the Official Ballots; the impartial analysis posted on the Registrar of Voters' and the City's websites have been corrected; and the full text of the resolution approving the general plan amendment with the correct location and maps was included in the Voters' Information Pamphlet, which clearly identifies the property subject to land use approvals. However, to ensure that no one is confused, we directed the city clerk's office to mail notices with the correction to residents.
On Tuesday, we also confirmed residents Mike Darnold, Matt Gaffney and Jean Vincenzi as the 2011 Honorees for our City's Wall of Recognition. The Wall of Recognition was created more than a decade ago to recognize individuals whose contributions and selfless efforts have made the City a more productive and pleasant place to live, work and play.
From service clubs to youth organizations, Mike Darnold, a 35-year resident, has been highly involved in our community and has donated countless hours to help make the City a more enjoyable place to live for youth and adults alike.
Matt Gaffney has been involved in the community most of his life. He has served on City boards and commissions since 1986 and has devoted his time to organizations such as the Historical Society and Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort.
An avid volunteer, Jean Vincenzi has lived in town since 1979. She has been involved with the San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library, which raises funds to benefit the library, for the past 14 years and currently serves as president.
The names of these three dedicated individuals will be added to our Wall of Recognition at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center in a special ceremony at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 30.
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