AFTER-ACTION REPORT on City-Neighborhood Meeting of 10/1/13 (Part 1)

Posted:  2 Oct 13


Ref:  (a) PCJ post, "CITY-NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING!!! 9/28 and 10/1/TUE (Update:#4)

1.  Purpose

The purpose of this bulletin is to tell you about last night's very interesting City-Neighborhood meeting, as announced in reference (a), where City Hall came to the people. These meeting-series are held at least twice a year and I eagerly anticipate them.  I missed attending the first meeting of this series, on 9/28/Sat (unavoidably, and to my regret, for every single meeting is of a "not-to-be-missed" nature, in my view).

2.  Organization of the Report

I feel I should try to be thorough, workload permitting. Because the meeting was so full and time for reporting is so precious, I decided to break this report into several separate bulletins, to be published as they are completed -- unless other priorities intervene.  

I also expect to keep tweaking the published reports, as I go through my copious notes.  I will indicate these as "updates" in the report titles -- in case you're moved to revisit.

• Here, then, is Part 1, which describes the setting and some highlights.  
• Part 2 (click here) will go into the progress of conceptual planning for the new downtown (Old Town) park. Citizens are urged to continue helping create this long-lasting "masterpiece." 
• Part 3 is to be determined.

3.  The Setting

3.1  We met in the spacious new conference room at the Pittsburg library.  About 40 people intended, including Mayor Parent, senior City officials, Community Advisory Commissioners, and other concerned residents. Contra Costa Times reporter, Eve Mitchell, who regularly serves our area so well, was also present.

3.2  City Manager Joe Sbranti led the meeting with his customary skill, humor, likability, and high intellect.  He informed us that this is the 10th anniversary for this outstanding public outreach effort.

3.3  As is his practice, Mr. Sbranti set a warm tone for the meeting and introduced key City Staff members -- calling each one forward to give brief synopses on their activities and progress.  Following this, the floor was opened for an enthusiastic discussion of questions and comments -- about specific neighborhood concerns and the City (and its surroundings), as a whole.

3.4  The meeting lasted a fast-moving and very full two-hours -- before an enthusiastically receptive and involved audience -- and afterwards, Staff remained available and involved in further, more detailed discussions with residents.

3.5  A large and welcome selection of vital printed information, fun and useful freebies, and tasty snacks are always thoughtfully available for the taking.

I THINK WE ALL CAME AWAY FEELING THAT THIS 

WAS TIME VERY WELL SPENT -- AGAIN!!!  
It felt good to see and join with neighbors whom I would rarely get to see, otherwise.

4.  Some Highlights

(My interpretation)

4.1  POTENTIAL CHANGE:  THE WESPAC PROPOSAL to reactivate and expand the oil tank farm in the west of the City -- for storage and transfer of oil products: This would constitute a major change in the very nature of the City, with potential serious and far-reaching consequences, both favorable and unfavorable.  

• Naturally, citizens have been mobilizing to express very strong views.  
• The recently concluded Environmental Impact Report (EIR) public review period has resulted in a huge response -- 65 extensive written public responses on file, so far -- which have to be processed, as part of the Planning Department's comprehensive report to City Commissions and Council.
• The City Planning Analyst for this project, Kristin Pollot, explained that the next City reporting is expected to be publicized during November -- open for further public comment.
• I believe Mr. Sbranti stressed that: (1) The City leadership also shares strong private feelings and concerns, naturally, many being residents, themselves; (2) The gravity of the matter is undeniable; (3) The WesPac proposal is a formal request which has to be thoroughly and fairly considered -- even if the down-sides are obviously severe; and (4) That we can trust the process to produce the "right result" -- whatever that may be.
• The complex process of developing fully-staffed recommendations for the City Council will continue to be a highly public one, with more opportunities for citizens to make their feelings clearly understood and impactful -- until the Council decides.

4.2  REVENUES:  Exactly one year ago, the new voter-approved SALES TAX went into effect.  Mr. Sbranti reports that the sacrifice is working even better than expected.  I noted that part of this must be due to the general economic upturn.  I also noted that the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce has been very active in promoting businesses and the shopping plazas within the City [which hopefully raises business profits and subsequent sales tax revenues].

Residents will hopefully continue their practice of "buying in Pittsburg, first," which contributes, importantly, to advancing governmental operations -- and a healthy climate for business -- all toward the common good.  Of course, funds are always scarce -- especially as old, reliable sources dry up, for various reasons -- and the City must constantly expend much effort pursuing grants and other revenue streams to maintain the highest levels of service, with minimal disruptions.

4.3  HIGH SCHOOL BAND:  The Pittsburg High School band has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars toward its participation in the 2014 New Year's parade in London.  However, the band still needs to raise about $70,000 more -- and more donations are earnestly desired -- to fulfill this wonderful investment and important opportunity -- for the healthful maturation of tomorrow's leaders and followers.  (Click here to visit their neat website)

This concludes Part One of this report.
You may click here to reach Part Two.

David Nelson



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