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Report and Commentary on the October
City Council Meetings
by Sandra Beebe
One of the rewarding aspects of watching the City Council meetings on Channel 20 is to become acquainted with the interesting residents of our town that you would not encounter in your day-to-day activities.
City Council Meeting November 9, 2009
First on the agenda was public recognition of Jude Long, librarian at the Morro Bay library, who has just retired. I must confess that in my eleven years here I have spoken to her a number of times but never bothered to even find out her name as I hurried in and out of the building with my books. That is my loss. For 34 years she has been part of the staff running the excellent library that is such an asset to our community. She is so admired by those who know her that a Peace Pole is to be erected outside of the premises in her honor. Donations may be sent to: Friends of the Library, 625 Harbor Avenue, Morro Bay, CA 93442
During the public comment period of this meeting Jim Nantze spoke. I don't know him, but he and I are of one mind about the phone books which keep appearing on our doorsteps. Many of us no longer even use these books because the information contained in them is readily available through our computers. He inquired if there were any city ordinances that would protect us from the litter, and, also, protect the environment from this wasteful use of resources. The city attorney stated that we would have to post a sign on our doors that we did not want to receive the material and then, if it was violated, a complaint could be made. This is yet another instance where common sense is lost in beurocratic red tape. I agree completely with Mr. Nantz that times have changed and they need to ask us to subscribe to these nuisance publications – not place the burden on us to stop them. It is comforting to know there are residents in our city that still take the common sense approach. Thanks, Jim, for bringing this up at the meeting for many of us are as frustrated as you about these unwanted telephone books.
The chairman of Morro Bay 4th, Inc., Jeff Eckles, again spoke about the celebration this committee is planning and the fireworks which they would bring back to our bay. Also speaking with equal enthusiasm was Ani Lyne, another member of the board. The same chill I felt the first time I heard Mr. Eckles speak came over me. Again, no mention was made of the effect on either the environment or the bird population of the estuary. Do they not understand where they live and the treasure that we have here that needs protection? Are we not responsible for preserving and protecting the natural wonders we are so privileged to have in Morro Bay?
As I said last month, I have always loved fireworks. However, I am not so selfish and blind sighted that I feel 30 minutes of glorious explosions are worth the consequences they cause. Certainly, there are places in Morro Bay, such as the high school, where everyone could enjoy this festivity without disturbing the habitat of our residents who have no voices. Fireworks are a delight but there are more important issues to be considered than just our momentary pleasure.
If you want any input into their plans you can contact one of the board members of this new organization:
President, Jeff Eckles; Vice President, Neil Farrell; Treasurer, Annette Bunnell; Secretary, Trina Dougherty; Directors, Ani Lyne, Bill Peirce, Bryan Griffiths, Chanel Channing, Erika Luhr, Joe Eckles. John Freeman, Peter Behman, and Phil Kispersky
The main business discussed at this meeting was the vote to adopt a resolution amending the Housing Element of the City of Morro Bay. The city is required to review this document every five years. This 163-page document may be read on the city website, if one has the motivation and stamina to do so. It has been reviewed both by the Planning Commission and the City Council, where this is the fourth reading. If this were not done, then the city would jeopardize its ability to receive various grants. Some of the council members were concerned about possible loopholes that would give developers ways to avoid height, setback, and other requirements. In addition, council members Winholtz and Smuckler stated that this document must be worded in such a way that is will protect the housing needs of the low-income residents in Morro Bay.
There were very few townspeople who spoke about this document and the implications to both moderate and low-income residents. It's a very complex issue and one that will shape the look and ambience of our town in future years. Of course, Mr. Condescending was there to voice his opinion and to criticize both the members of this council and those of the previous council. To voice one's opinion in opposition of another's views is certainly what is allowed and expected during public comment. However, to do so is such a supercilious manner does not accomplish anything.
There was just one meeting in November so I had plenty of time to watch other committees such as the Planning Commission. I am so pleased to see that Jamie Irons has replaced the irreplaceable Bill Woodson. Those who know Bill know what an asset he was there and in all his other endeavors for the community. However, for those of us who know Jamie, we can be certain that an excellent commissioner has been found. He loves this community and will make decisions that we all can "live" with.
There will be no column from my couch about the December meeting. I'll be in sunny Florida most of the month. Every time I leave, like most of us here, I again am struck at how other places cannot measure up to our town and the environs. Most of us live here because we are compelled to by something we can't explain. For 2010 it is my wish that all the council members and the residents will work together to preserve and not destroy that intangible something that brought us here and binds us together. I'll be watching from my couch to see if we can accomplish this feat.
Since the year 2000, Sandra & Curt Beebe have installed 36 Mutt Mitt dispensers in and around Morro Bay. The Mitts are funded by donations from individuals, organizations, and grants. Make the checks out to "The Bay Foundation" for a tax deduction. Be sure to note "Mutt Mitts" on the front of the check. The Bay Foundation is a 501(c)(3) and is administered by the National Estuary Program. For more information about this "Mutt Mitt" Program, contact Sandra at email SandraBeebe@slocoastjournal.com.
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