CLOVIS CITY COUNCIL MEETING
March 17, 2025 6:00 P.M. Council Chamber
Meeting called to order by Mayor Mouanoutoua at 6:01
Flag Salute led by Councilmember Ashbeck
Roll Call: Present: Councilmembers Ashbeck, Basgall, Bessinger, Mayor Pro Tem Pearce Mayor Mouanoutoua
PUBLIC COMMENTS - 6:02
Eric Rollin, resident, invited the council to the National Vietnam Veterans Day event on March 29, 2025, and expressed concerns about Measure Y funding allocation.
Ryan Parsley, the owner of Reborne Brewing Company, expressed ongoing communication issues with the City of Clovis, which have delayed the opening of his business, and requested a waiver to expedite the permit process.
Steven Trevino, resident, suggested naming districts instead of using numbers and raised concerns about congressional representation for Clovis.
Belva Mayes, resident, emphasized that Measure Y funds should prioritize police and fire services as initially promised and shared concerns about districting and the cost of the process.
Leticia, resident, voiced concerns about her son being repeatedly stopped and detained by Clovis PD without cause, expressing concerns that their community is being unfairly targeted.
Ashley, resident, expressed frustration with Clovis PD for failing to properly document incident reports regarding a harassing neighbor.
CONSENT CALENDAR - 6:18
Bill Scott, resident, expressed concerns about Consent item 4, noting that the proposed changes to the General Services Department's position allocation plan could lead to higher salaries, increasing city expenses and potentially raising taxes.
Motion by Councilmember Ashbeck, seconded by Councilmember Basgall, that the items on the Consent Calendar be approved, including the waiver of the reading of the ordinance. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
1. Administration - Approval - Minutes from the March 5, 2025, Special Meeting and the March 10, 2025, Regular Council Meeting.
Administration - Adopt - Ord. 25-03, Amending Section 3.1.126 and adding Sections
3.1.126.1 and 3.1.126.2 of Chapter 3.1 of Title 3 of the Clovis Municipal Code Relating to Business Registration and Licensing Exemptions for Honorably Discharged or Honorably Relieved Veterans and Active Duty or Reservist Military Personnel. (Vote: 5-0)
3. Administration - Adopt - Ord. 25-04, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Clovis Amending Section 5.6.09 of Chapter 5.6 of Title 5 of the Clovis Municipal Code Relating to Authorized Additional Card Tables at Licensed Card Rooms. (Vote: 5-0) General Services - Approval - Res. 25-23, Amending the City's FY 2024-2025 Position Allocation Plan by adding two (2) Senior Management Analyst Positions and removing two (2) Management Analyst Positions within the General Services Department.
General Services - Approval - Authorize the City Manager to Execute the First Amendment to Passio Technologies, LLC for an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). This Amendment includes Additional Licenses and Hardware, Implementation of Active Route Management (ARM) Software, Full Content Management Support for Infotainment, and the Addition of an Interactive Bus Kiosk for a Total of $455,509.40.
6. Planning and Development Services - Approval - Final Acceptance for CIP 23-03, Willow Avenue Street Improvements.
7. Planning and Development Services - Approval - Final Acceptance for CIP 24-24, Santa Ana Sidewalk Improvements.
PUBLIC HEARINGS - 6:21
6:21 ITEM 8 - Consider Approval - Res. 25-XX, CUP1995-009A4 Appeal. A request to consider an appeal of the Planning Commission's approval of CUP1995-009A4 for the addition of a new, two-story, classroom building and relocation of a basketball court, with a change in operational hours and an increase of student capacity to 414 students for the Valley Crescent School located at 547 W. Nees Avenue. Muslim Society of Central California, owner; Michael Eastman, Applicant, and representative.
Joel Demir Acoustical Consultant with MD Acoustics, addressed the council regarding the anticipated noise levels from the soccer field and basketball court, explaining how real-life measurements were used to model the noise and clarifying that the proposed walls would effectively reduce, not amplify, the noise.
Todd Valeri, resident, read a statement on behalf of Dr. Reed Van Wagenen requesting the City Council rescind the Planning Commission's approval of a conditional use permit for a school expansion, citing concerns over noise, traffic, safety, and insufficient community engagement.
Dr. Anwar Ibrahim, resident, spoke in support of the proposed school project, emphasizing that the noise and traffic concerns raised by others were not issues for him and that the school followed all city guidelines in its expansion plans.
Dr. Atif Rana, Civil Engineer and resident, spoke in support for the school expansion.
Dr. Samy Youssef, resident, expressed concerns about traffic congestion, noise, and the fairness of the studies conducted for the school's expansion, urging the council to consider the impact on existing residents while supporting education.
Abdullah Baker, a transportation engineer and resident, spoke in support of the school expansion.
Monica Kandal, resident, spoke in support of the school expansion.
Resident, spoke in support of the school expansion.
Amy Gilster, resident, opposed the expansion and raised concerns about noise levels and traffic surveys not reflecting the actual conditions during peak times.
Dr. Omar Chowdhry, resident, spoke in support of the school expansion.
Orlando with Valley Cresent School, spoke in support of the school expansion and clarified that the school's maximum enrollment is 414 and emphasized the school's efforts to address traffic, noise, and privacy concerns while maintaining a good relationship with the neighborhood.
Brian Gilster, resident, opposed to the expansion due to concerns about increased noise from the basketball court, traffic congestion, and safety issues during school drop-off and pick-up times.
Tracy Gilster, resident, opposed to the proposed increase in student enrollment, citing traffic problems, noise, and a lack of consideration for the neighborhood's needs Felicia, resident, opposed the expansion and expressed concerns about the noise from the school.
The City Council discussed the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the school, originally set for 90 students and later increased to 174 after a third amendment. Concerns about the school's expansion, traffic, and its impact on the neighborhood were raised. The Council suggested delaying the decision for further talks between the school, neighbors, and city staff. They addressed noise mitigation, with a proposal to measure noise levels from affected properties, and traffic concerns, particularly around pick-up and drop-off times. There was also a call to consider gradual increases in student numbers and alternative locations for larger expansions, aiming to find a fair compromise for both the school and the community.
Motion by Councilmember Ashbeck, seconded by Councilmember Bessinger to continue the appeal to a date uncertain, with direction to staff to work on the noise benchmark, address the traffic concerns, and clarify any necessary conditions before the project proceeds. Motion carried 4-1, with Mayor Mouanoutoua voted no.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS - 8:47
8:47 ITEM 9 - Consider Approval - Res. 25-24, A resolution authorizing staff to initiate an application process for soliciting members for the General Plan Advisory Committee as part of the General Plan Update.
Brian Wilson, resident, expressed concern about how members were selected for a previous committee, questioning whether the process would result in a diverse group of individuals with relevant interests, rather than just those with a personal interest, such as in boating.
Motion for approval by Councilmember Ashbeck, seconded by Councilmember Bessinger. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
9:06 ITEM 10 - Consider Approval - Res. 25-25, A resolution accepting and authorizing the submission of the 2024 General Plan Annual Progress Report, including the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report to the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation and the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
Upon call, there was no public comment.
Motion for approval by Councilmember Ashbeck, seconded by Councilmember Basgall. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
9:16 ITEM 11 - Provide Direction - 2025/26 Budget Priorities.
Eric Rollins, resident, emphasized the importance of sticking to a percentage-based approach for the budget, particularly regarding public safety funding, and expressed support for increased emergency services funding.
Brian Wilson, resident, suggested that fire trucks could be better utilized by reducing the use of expensive equipment for non-fire emergencies, such as medical aids, and advocated for savings by rethinking equipment allocation.
Bill Scott, resident, proposed adding a new priority to the budget plan, stressing no new taxes and warning about potential budget issues if union negotiations lead to raises without sufficient funding.
The City Council discussed the allocation of funds from Measure Y, focusing on public safety and other city services. A key concern raised was the possibility of overestimating the revenue from Measure Y, particularly given economic uncertainties. Some councilmembers advocated for a more cautious approach, suggesting a projected revenue less than the estimated $26 million to avoid stretching city resources too thin. The discussion also emphasized the need to balance immediate staffing priorities, such as hiring police officers and firefighters, with the necessity of reserving funds for future capital improvements, like fleet upgrades and facility maintenance.
There were concerns about fiscal sustainability, with some members questioning the reliability of projected revenue and the risk of future shortfalls.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS - 10:00
City Manager Haussler provided an update on Assembly Bill 1333, informing the Council that the ill had been pulled from consideration. This bill was related to changes in self-defense laws ir California. He also highlighted upcoming events, including the next "Meet the Mayor" event, which will be held this Thursday at Woods Elementary. Additionally, he shared details about the Letterman Dog Park Grand Ribbon Cutting event this Saturday, as well as a kitten show.
COUNCIL COMMENTS - 10:01
It was the consensus of the Council to bring an item regarding electronic billboards back for future discussion.
CLOSED SESSION - 10:07
ITEM 12 - GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.6 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS AGENCY DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVES: ANDY HAUSSLER, PAUL ARMENDARIZ, AMY HANCE, SCOTT CROSS EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION: ALL
BARGAINING UNITS
Bill Scott, resident, expressed concern about the influence of unions in bargaining negotiations, particularly regarding potential conflicts of interest due to their support in council members' elections.
ITEM 13 - GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION TITLE: CITY MANAGER
RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION AND REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION No action taken.
ADJOURNMENT *
Mayor Mouanoutoua adjourned the meeting of the Council to April 7, 2025.
Meeting adjourned: 11:20 p.m. PRATED FEBRUASIN
Brana та
Mayor City Clerk
Public Comment for March 17, 2025
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website < [email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 11:52 AM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Ryan Parsley
Email: [email protected]
Comment: On December 19, 2024, the City of Clovis Planning Commission unanimously approved Reborne Brewing Company's conditional use permit to open the Tap Room in addition to their brewing operations at 1018 San Jose Avenue, Clovis, CA 93612.
Just shy of 3 months, two days have passed, and still no building permit has been issued.
For over 16 months, this Clovis business has been prevented from generating Tap Room retail revenue, currently at a loss of $500,000 - $750,000+. Revenue, which is key to its survival in its industry, is due to a series of challenging communications and delays with the various City of Clovis departments, which are unrelated to the business itself rather than the permitting process.
This loss of retail revenue has also resulted in a loss of tax revenue to the City of Clovis, the County of Fresno, and the State of California.
Today, there is a document, served in the 11th hour of the permit approval process, unrelated to the business, instead the property owner from which the company leases a 2300 SqFt space in a light manufacturing building complex, that the City of Clovis Engineering Department is requiring the business to have wet signed by the Property Owner and notarized, before issuing said permit to build their tap room.
Challenge:
It has come to the attention of Reborne Brewing Company that this document requiring a wet signature from an out-of-state property owner whose property is managed locally has been an ongoing challenge with the City of Clovis for upwards of 30 years, having to do with the City of Clovis landscape maintenance of said property without compensation by the property owner. Approximately $120/annually
Question:
How does this document indicate the responsibility of the business to work diligently to open its tap room to the general public to generate retail revenue?
Answer: It's not, and besides taking ample action to get the signature, we have no control over this time- sensitive matter.
Solution:
With all other city and county requirements being met, we are asking for a waiver to be filed to Public Comment for March 17, 2025
•
circumvent this document so building projects can commence and the business can open to the public so as not to be forced into bankruptcy. We ask that the document be accepted upon final inspection of our building permit rather than contingent on permit approval.
While all other neighboring businesses/tenants continue to enjoy business as usual, with zero interruption in their revenue, The City of Clovis needs to take legal action against the property owner and NOT use the 'issuance of a permit' as leverage against a business that has zero ownership in the property.
Supporting Files (2 Max.): https://cityofclovis.com/wp- content/uploads/elementor/forms/67d86f4df18bd.pdf
Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 11:51 am
Remote IP: 73.41.154.235
2 -
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 3:02 PM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Russ Parsley
Email: [email protected]
Comment: **A Concern from a Fresno County Citizen and Investor in a Clovis Startup Business:** On December 19, 2024, the City of Clovis Planning Commission unanimously approved Reborne Brewing Company's request for a permit to open the Tap Room side of their award-winning, veteran- and family- owned Bulldog Proud premium craft brewery, located at 1018 San Jose Avenue, Clovis, CA.
However, just shy of three months no building permit has been issued.
For over 16 months, this Clovis business has been unable to generate Tap Room retail revenue, resulting in an estimated loss of between $500,000 and $750,000. This figure does not include unrealized wholesale revenue, which is also crucial for the company's survival in a highly competitive and challenging industry. The delays stem from complicated communications and an inefficient permitting process within various City of Clovis departments, none of which relate to the business itself. **Backstory:**
Reborne Brewing Company received its City of Clovis Business License with no notification regarding a 'Building Permit' requirement prior to opening its doors. Six months later, a Stop Notice was affixed to their door, and the business was fined-disguised as a fee... for not obtaining its building permit.
It's important to note that the Building Department was not present during the original Design Review Committee (DRC) meeting, and no representatives from other departments mentioned this absence or the requirement for a building permit before the business opened to the public. Furthermore, there was no delay in receiving the City of Clovis Business License, even though the Building Department's permit process had not been fulfilled.
This loss of retail revenue has also led to a direct and indirect loss of tax revenue for the City of Clovis.
To provide context, a competitor in the industry is the fifth-largest tax revenue-generating business in the City of Paso Robles. The Founder and CEO of Reborne Brewing Company has modeled his business after this competitor, which has the potential to deliver similar tax revenue results for Clovis.
Currently, there is a document that was served at the last minute of the permit approval process. This document requires a wet signature from the property owner, who leases a 2,500-square-foot space to the business in a light manufacturing building complex. The City of Clovis Engineering Department is insisting on the wet signature before issuing the pre-approved permit to build its Tap Room. •
**Challenge:**
It has come to this Investor's attention that this document, which requires the signature of an out-of- state property owner (managed locally), has been an ongoing challenge with the City of Clovis for about 30 years. This issue pertains to the City's landscape maintenance of the property without compensation from the property owner, which costs approximately $120 annually. **Question:**
How is this document the responsibility of a business that is working diligently to open its Tap Room and generate retail revenue?
**Answer:**
It is not.
**Solution:**
With all City and County requirements already met, I respectfully request that the City of Clovis Building Department immediately issue the business its Tap Room building permit, as promised and approved by the Planning Commission. This will allow Reborne Brewing Company to build and open to the public, preventing the risk of bankruptcy, irreparable financial harm to the Founder/CEO & his family, as well as the investment loss of 9 local investors.
While other neighboring businesses and tenants continue their operations without interruption to their revenue, the City of Clovis should not use the issuance of a permit as leverage against a startup business that has no ownership in the property.
Russ Parsley
USAF Veteran | Media Veteran
Father of the CEO / Uncle of the COO
of Reborne Brewing Company, LLC
Reborne Lifetime Member #1
Reborne Investor #1
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 3:01 pm
Remote IP: 50.245.164.129
2 •
Public Comment for March 17, 2025
Agenda item 8
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2025 2:54 PM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subiect: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put"O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Jeffrey
Email: [email protected]
Comment: What would be the true dBA for 12 kids playing on the future basketball court which will be approximately 25 ft. from the East Wall. The existing court, which is 115 ft. from the East wall had a reading of 52 dB(A). The reading of 55dB(A)
for the future court site can't be correct. This site for the court is very close to 512 Lexington & 517 Kenosha. Let's get some true numbers that represent what's really going on here!! Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: March 16, 2025
Time: 2:53 pm
Remote IP: 99.60.169.93
Public Comment for
March 17, 2025
Agenda item 8
1 Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2025 3:05 PM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [Externall Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Jeffrey Edward Arkelian
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I have questions about the future site for the basketball court and the dB(A). There was a 55 reading @ the future site from NM1, which can't be correct. The court is 25 ft. from the East Wall, The reading from the existing site was 52. This site was 115 ft. from NM1. There are 2 residences, 512 Lexington & 517 Kenosha. Both home owners deserve an honest assessment on what the noise level will actually be in d(A)'s!!!!
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: March 16, 2025
Time: 3:04 pm
Remote IP: 99.60.169.93
1 •
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 12:55 PM
To: Andrew Haussler, Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Gianni Stanziale
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Dear Clovis Council: My name is Gianni Stanziale. I live in proximity of Valley Crescent School off of Fallbrook ave. I wanted to write in support of expansion of the school for the vote today. I have never had any issues regarding traffic or noise with to this school. Everyone has always been very courteous. One of our most precious resources in this country is education for our children. I feel the school is such an important part of our community. I was unable to make the hearing but feel it was important to make my voice heard. If you need anything else please contact me. Sincerely, Gianni Stanziale
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 12:54 pm
Remote IP: 174.235.113.177
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 3:17 PM
To: Andrew Haussler, Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Jessica S. Johnson
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Please see attached file for a comment letter in support of the Appeal of the Planning Commission's approval of CUP1995-009A4.
Supporting Files (2 Max.): https://cityofclovis.com/wp- content/uploads/elementor/forms/67d89f552c6db.pdf
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Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 3:16 pm
Remote IP: 99.162.185.79
•
• Public Comment for
March 17, 2025
Agenda item 11
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 11:49 AM
To: Andrew Haussler, Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 11 Full Name: Rose A Coughlin
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Firstly, thank you for the opportunity to send in comments. On tonight's Item 11 "Provide Direction 2025/26 Budget Priorities - Measure Y" I would ~suggest it be an ongoing campaign to educate the "public" on "Public Safety". Even to experts the nomenclature and defined terms are evolving (& devolving) as we try to define them for both budget purposes, legal forums and/or ~public scrutiny of Measure Y ~spending priorities.
Consideration is needed for the public to understand BUT I also realize the City doesn't want to paint too grim a picture, so as to lose public trust. 'Delicate Balance' is a term I have worn out in explaining that terms like Safety, Security, Risk, Health, Environment may be defined differently depending on which ~system the City is shoring up.
Perhaps enter a section in every piece of the budget pie that defines any potential Public Safety element by 'definition' (near term or long term). At the last meeting I appreciated how Andy was demonstrating it with dotted line with potential percentage.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 11:49 am
Remote IP: 73.116.8.246
Public Comment for
March 17, 2025
Agenda item 11
1 Item No. 8
CITYOfCLOVIS
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Planning and Development Services
DATE: March 17, 2025
SUBJECT: Consider Approval - Res. 25-_, CUP1995-009A4 Appeal. A request to consider an appeal of the Planning Commission's approval of CUP1995- 009A4 for the addition of a new, two-story, classroom building and relocation of a basketball court, with a change in operational hours and an increase of student capacity to 414 students for the Valley Crescent School located at 547 W. Nees Avenue. Muslim Society of Central California, owner; Michael Eastman, Applicant, and representative.
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Updated Operational Statement
2. Signatures in Support
3. Public Comments
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Planning staff received an updated operational statement from the Applicant on March 13, 2025. See Attachment 1 of this memorandum for information regarding areas of modification following the February 5th meeting with neighbors. Additionally, on March 13, 2025, staff received a letter of support with numerous signatures from parents of the school, included as Attachment 2. Two (2) public comments were received on March 16, 2025 and are attached as Attachment 3.
Attachment 1
March 13, 2025
Clovis City Council
c/o City of Clovis Planning Staff
1033 Fifth Street
Clovis, CA 93612
SUBJECT: CUP1995-009A4
Planning Staff and Council Members,
Please accept this response into the record for clarification and additional information specific to the operational standards of Valley Crescent School which operates as a K-8 elementary school.
As you may or may not be aware, after the Planning Commission's approval of January 25th ', 2025, the applicant heard from area neighbors wanting to meet and discuss. School administration felt that it was important to residents, so school staff facilitated a follow-up meeting with affected neighborhood representatives. During the follow-up meeting on February 5th, school staff listened to neighbors express the same concerns about noise, traffic, and privacy. School staff understood that area property owners felt strongly about these concerns so took an extra step to put residents at ease with noise and traffic. The applicant has provided addendums to both the noise and traffic analysis and will include additional measures as necessary, to ensure an ongoing compatible land use with the neighborhood. In addition, this notice provides clarification regarding the complete operation of the school and further addresses its non-impact on streets, traffic, noise and privacy.
Noise:
Neighbors expressed concern that the initial noise study was possibly conducted during the morning hours when students were not outside, so the applicant felt it important to expand on its study after the Planning Commission approval. An amended study executed on February 14'h ', during peak student outdoor hours. MD Acoustics, LLC, performed the additional study for the project and determined that at full school capacity of 414 students, Valley Crescent School will still comply with the City of Clovis's noise standards.
It was also indicated by residents that the school normally uses a public address system that is disruptive to the surrounding areas. For clarification, the school does not possess an intercom system but does occasionally rely on a handheld megaphone for student events. In the future, outdoor staff will monitor the use of the megaphone system and adjust accordingly.
Traffic:
Area residents also expressed concern with the number of vehicles dropping off and picking up students for school. Valley Crescent School would like to make the Council aware that several parents do not have only one student per vehicle for drop-off and pick- up. It is common that one family has more than one student in class or families alternate in carpooling. Approximately 10 percent of students utilize carpooling. This helps in alleviating excessive traffic coming onto the campus.
Additionally, the school also provides a school bus that provides an additional mode of transportation for students. The bus holds approximately 14 students and operates on a daily school schedule. Staff has indicated that the schedule can be modified to make two trips daily (two in morning for drop-off, and two after school), if the enrollment numbers warrant.
Currently, the school has a limited drop-off period in the mornings. With an increase in enrollment, the school will review school policy and could extend the drop-off times to a 45-minute window (7:30 to 8:15) to provide parents with greater flexibility which ensures a smoother, more efficient process. Pick-up times can also be extended to a 45-minute window (from 3:30 to 4:15). Overall, these adjustments will help alleviate congestion and create a safer, more organized arrival and dismissal experience for everyone.
School staff also heard concerns about school parents using Sylmar Avenue for U-turns.
An email (attached) was sent to parents requesting that they use Peach Avenue for any U-turns onto westbound Nees Avenue. School staff conducted their own review after the notice went out to parents and observed that except for one parent in the afternoon pick- up, every parent now uses Peach Avenue for a U-turn.
Subsequently, the Traffic Analysis conducted for the Project confirms that at capacity, the school still meets the threshold for traffic management. Additionally, after the Planning Commission's approval, the applicant reached out to their traffic specialist for the collection of additional traffic counts. The addendum provided to Clovis Engineering staff confirms that the Project even at full enrollment, will operate at an acceptable level.
Privacy:
As part of the remodel and improvement process, the school has agreed to purchase up to eighty, 15-gallon trees for placement at key areas along the perimeter of the property in order to provide residents with an extra measure of privacy. Additionally, the boundary of the property has mature trees which block out large percentages of backyards from the school. Consequently, homeowners on the northeastern and north, have existing large 40-50-foot mature trees which completely block any views to the school and any future building. The school also has an existing 7-foot masonry wall surrounding the property which creates a great measure of privacy.
The proposed 2-story building will be located centrally on the property to maximize distances from existing homes. The proposed school building will be located approximately 90 feet from the east property line adjacent to 517 W Kenosha's side yard.
This neighbor's backyard is already partially screened out by the neighbor's mature 40- 50-foot trees in addition to the school's Italian cypresses located between the properties.
School staff will work with planning staff through the site plan review process to provide additional non-deciduous (evergreen) trees to fill any gaps.
The adjacent property located at 512 W Lexington Avenue backs up to the school. With the development of the two-story building, the building will be setback approximately 90 feet from the eastern wall. The majority of this homeowner's rear yard is screened with existing 50- to 60-foot pines and there are a few additional trees on the school side adjacent to the shared wall. School staff will work with planning staff to incorporate additional trees within any gap area to provide eventual complete screening. This can be conditioned through the site plan review process
The proposed building will be setback approximately 130 feet from the rear property line.
Although there are a few existing mature trees across the rear property line, the school is prepared to provide additional trees along the north boundary wall.
The proposed building will be placed approximately 50 feet from the west property line.
The majority of the building will be screened on the west by the existing modular building, however; school administrators are prepared to add additional non-deciduous trees along this west side as well.
Enrollment Numbers:
As indicated in staff's report, the Project is part of a 7-year gradual expansion project.
Once the building is constructed, enrollment will be controlled by adding students as warranted and feasible. There may be school years where enrollment is only increased by 3-5 students, and in more successful years enrollment can increase by approximately 40 students. The requested 414 student enrollment number is hopeful in reaching after 7 years in operation utilizing manageable and sustainable practices.
Maria Ruvalcaba
From: miday, read asy 21 2025 [email protected]>
Sent:
To: Maria Ruvalcaba
Subject: Fw: Message to VCS Parents
This email originated from outside of the organization. DO NOT CLICK on links or attachments unless you know the sender and the content is safe.
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
On Wednesday. February 19, 2025, 3:14 PM, Malika Hariz: <m [email protected]> wrote:
Revised version of the message to parents:
Assalamu Alaykum Dear Parents,
As a courtesy to our neighbors and in the spirit of being good neighbors, as encouraged by our Prophet (PBUH), if you are traveling east on Nees Avenue, we highly recommend making a U-turn at the traffic light on Peach Avenue instead of making an unsafe turn onto Sylmar Avenue. This will help improve traffic flow, prevent congestion, and create a safer, smoother drop-off and pick-up experience for everyone.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school community safe! Malika Harizi
VCS Principal
(559) 298-0023
VALLEY CRESCENT IHOOI
On Wed, Feb 19, 2025 at 2:39 PM Malika Harizi <[email protected]> wrote:
Assalamu Alaykum Dear Parents,
As a courtesy to our neighbors and in the spirit of being good neighbors, as encouraged by our Prophet (PBUH), we highly recommend making a U-turn at the traffic light on Peach 1 Avenue instead of turning unsafely on Sylmar Avenue. This will help improve traffic flow, prevent congestion, and create a safer and smoother drop-off and pick-up experience for everyone.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school community safe! Malika Harizi
VCS Principal
(559) 298-0023
ILEY CRESCENT I
2 Attachment 2
Dear Clovis City Council,
I am a parent at Valley Crescent School and a resident of Clovis who lives in the school's neighborhood. I am asking you to uphold the Planning Commission's decision to approve VCS' expansion.
I have been pleased with the education that VCS provides for my children, and I have also seen that the school has hit the current capacity of its existing space. We need more room for our growing community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Mahmoud Tajouri 451W Enterprise Ave, clovis
- Haifa Shufar 2224 Veront Ave Clovis
Abdul Khalin Alozie 2733 Spnerval On, Clovis
Shazia flaz 1928 Vermont Ave Clovis
AYESHA HASAN 765 W. TIVOLI LANE CLOUIS
Sumer Fashees 2011 Buckingham ave Clovis Ca
Shamsan Bahy 635l Edy ton ope clons, ca 5T
Nawal Ali 31.95 mitcheel #de +1081593619 8c
Adeeb obeid 14 1696 Las Ross Nue Clovis, CA 93619
Nida Dalia 857 lemieux In Clous Ca 93619
Narth Chauchny 8371 Ni Classics Are Fresno, CA 93730 la •
Dear Clovis City Council,
I am a parent at Valley Crescent School and a resident of Clovis who lives in the school's neighborhood. I am asking you to uphold the Planning Commission's decision to approve VCS' expansion.
I have been pleased with the education that VCS provides for my children, and I have also seen that the school has hit the current capacity of its existing space. We need more room for our growing community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
=anaftsao ddy Sana Alsaoudi 3574 Bellaire Ave. Clovis. CA 93619 Af firer Alma Lopez 5188 E. Ashlan Ave Fresno, CA 93727 Muhammad Sileam 1918 N whitmore Are Clovis C A 93819
Miriam Garcia Martine22 701 Havard Ave Clovis CA 93612
Aaia Mohame d 11348 N Blue Sage Fresno 93730
A trai
1147 A MOLLS AVENUE CIOVIS CA
ile saspreet kaur 93611
He Si Natesa Ali 9385 NBoyd Ave fresho CA 93720
laur imama Vari 138 0 Athers Are, Clavis CA 93611
- Malia 4, Mahira Khan 296 W é1 Paso Ave Clovis, CAl 936l1 All Airesha Kamal Kamal N Harun Are Fresno C473730 The Thabet Anani 8349 N. Saffian it. Fresno, CA 93720 Attachment 3
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2025 2:54 PM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Jeffrey
Email: [email protected]
Comment: What would be the true dBA for 12 kids playing on the future basketball court which will be approximately 25 ft. from the East Wall. The existing court, which is 115 ft. from the East wall had a reading of 52 dB(A). The reading of 55dB(A)
for the future court site can't be correct. This site for the court is very close to 512 Lexington & 517 Kenosha. Let's get some true numbers that represent what's really going on here!! Supporting Files (2 Max.):
---
Date: March 16, 2025
Time: 2:53 pm
Remote IP: 99.60.169.93
Briana Parra
From: City of Clovis Website < [email protected]> Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2025 3:05 PM
To: Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian; Briana Parra
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2025-03-17
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 8 Full Name: Jeffrey Edward Arkelian
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I have questions about the future site for the basketball court and the dB(A). There was a 55 reading @ the future site from NM1, which can't be correct. The court is 25 ft. from the East Wall, The reading from the existing site was 52. This site was 115 ft. from NM1. There are 2 residences, 512 Lexington & 517 Kenosha. Both home owners deserve an honest assessment on what the noise level will actually be in d(A)'s!!!!
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: March 16, 2025
Time: 3:04 pm
Remote IP: 99.60.169.93
Agenda Hem 8
B O keny Auto Mert
20 2816 15
N Willow A
13 Prime Steal G
N Terry Ave N Peach Ave
afeti (
W Kenosha Ave
americas kits O
Swim School
W Nees Ave W Nees Ave W Nees Ave
W Nees Ave
W Nees Ave W Nees Ave. W Nees Ave W Nees Ave W Nees Ave W Nees Ave W Nees Ave W Nees Ave
• MeDonald s
N Citadel Ave W Jordan Ave
→ Saran s
N Peach Ave
(Save Marti
CLOVIS POLIC
Accidents By Location Report
Print Date/Time: 02/21/2025 08:57 From Date: 01/01/2023 00:00 Clovis Police Login ID: cityofclovisitamij To Date: 12/31/202423:59 ORI Number: CA0100100 Injury: All Location: NEES
Location Accident # Date/Time # of Units #of Injured Property Damage Description BAC Test Rests W NEES AV / N PEACH AV 2023-00026449 04/27/2023 09:31 2 W NEES AV / N PEACH AV 2024-00015188 03/12/2024 08:32 3 W NEES AV / N PEACH AV 2024-00024351 04/22/2024 15:07 3 1 W NEES AV / N PEACH AV 2024-00033241 05/30/2024 15:30 2 W NEES AV / N PEACH AV 2024-00039397 06/27/2024 17:01 2 2 TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION 5
NEES AV / N RENN AV 2024-00057049 09/10/2024 08:31 2 1
NEES AV / N RENN AV 2024-00072460 11/13/2024 14:04 1 DUMPSTER TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 2
NEES AV / N SUNNYSIDE AV 2023-00007985 02/07/2023 07:59 2 NEES AV / N SUNNYSIDE AV 2024-00052531 08/22/2024 15:29 2 1 NEES AV / N SUNNYSIDE AV 2024-00079449 12/12/2024 23:13 1 BENT STOP SIGN TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 3
W NEES AV/ N TIMMY AV 2023-00026963 04/29/2023 09:58 2 3 8 FEET OF CHAIN LINKED FENCE AND POLE
DAMAGED
TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION 1
2970 E NEES AVE 2024-00076963 12/03/2024 11:14 2
TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
NEES AVE / N CLOVIS AVE 2023-00043935 07/07/2023 19:23
TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
NEES AVE / CLOVIS AVE 2023-00056153 08/26/2023 02:59 1
Page: 2 of 3
Accidents By Location Report
Print Date/Time: 02/21/2025 08:57 To Datate: 02/31/2022 2300 Clovis Police Login ID: cityofclovis\tamij 12/31/2024 23:59 ORI Number: CA0100100 Injury: All Location: NEES
Location Accident # Date/Time # of Units # of Injured Property Damage Description BAC Test Resits TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
NEES AVE / N HARVARD AVE 2024-00015290 03/12/2024 15:37 2 NEES AVE / N HARVARD AVE 2024-00049274 08/09/2024 00:00 1 BUSHES IN MEDIAN DAMAGED TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 2
W NEES AVE / N MINNEWAWA AVE 2023-00080391 12/12/2023 22:09 LIGHT POLE BENT TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
NEES AVE / N MINNEWAWA AVE 2023-00052761 08/12/2023 12:27 2 2 TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
E NEES AVE / PURDUE AVE 2024-00035843 06/11/2024 17:04 2 1 TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
W NEES AVE / N SYLMAR AVE 2023-00057074 08/30/2023 12:01 2 TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1|
NEES AVE / N TEMPERANCE AVE 2023-00070046 10/26/2023 12:12 TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION: 1
E NEES AVE / N WILLOW AVE 2023-00082930 12/24/2023 20:53 2 E NEES AVE / N WILLOW AVE 2024-00050044 08/13/2024 11:00 2 1 L TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION:2
NEES AVE /N TIMMY AVE 2023-00071233 11/01/2023 07:59 2
-TOTAL ACCIDENTS AT ABOVE LOCATION 1)
TOTAL ACCIDENTS FOR ORI: 33
Page: 3 of 3
3/11/25, 6:34 PM AT&T Yahoo Mail - U.S.D.O.T. & Federal Railroad Administration Investigation of California High Speed Rail U.S.D.O.T. & Federal Railroad Administration Investigation of California High Speed Rail Received
From: Joseph P Thompson ([email protected])
MAR 14 2025
To: [email protected]
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 06:28 PM PDT
Honorable Sean Duffy
Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation
Dear Mr. Secretary,
Please include my three personal letters to three Editors of local newspapers, Gilroy Dispatch, Hollister Freelance, and Morgan Hill Times (attached hereto). in the official record of the proceedings in this matter. Thank you.
Joseph P. Thompson
(408) 848-5506
E-Mail: [email protected]
cc: Editor, Gilroy Dispatch, Hollister Freelance, and Morgan Hill Times cc: Gilroy Chamber of Commerce
cc: Gilroy City Council, Morgan Hill City Council, & Hollister City Council truth-in-transportation 3 papers 3-11-2025.pdf
208.5kB
about:blank 1/1
Leiter: laxpayers deserve the truth in transportation | Gilroy Dispatch | Gilroy, Calitornia
GILROY DISPATCH
Letter: Taxpayers deserve the truth in
transportation
BY JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ. - March 11. 2025
BETTER THE EDITOR
Referring to the U.S.D.O.T. Secretary's announcement of the federal government investigation of the California High Speed Rail Association's SuperMassive Black Hole Bullet Train, taxpayers deserve truth-in- transportation, which we are not getting from public sector transit advocates, e.g., CAHSRA high speed rail Trojan Horse Monstrosity.
Taxpayers say, "Get Real." We cannot afford the additional gas taxes and other taxes/fees that will be required to pay for the construction and capital costs, plus the estimated $1 billion per year annual operating losses, that independent experts predict. What are they smoking at CAHSRA? https://gilroydispatch.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 1/2
DO, CY I Letter: laxpayers deserve the truth in transportation | Gilroy Dispatch | Gilroy, California Worse than the public sector transit model that we already subsidize with our gas taxes, sales taxes, etc.. you can see that they are lying, again, if you do the math yourself, and don't swallow the BS-Baloney from CAHSRA and public sector transit advocates.
Using their numbers, 1 million annual riders from Merced to Bakersfield means 500,000 round trips. Fifty billion dollars in capital and construction costs, plus $1 billion in annual operating costs equals $51 billion; if paid by 500,000 riders means fully amortized fares, fully remunerative fares (ie., fares cover all costs). would put a round trip at $102,000 per passenger.
At that price it would be cheaper for taxpayers to buy each HSR rider his own Mercedes or BMW.
If you stretch recovery of capital and construction costs over a 20 year period, then the fare price drops to only $5,100.00 for a round trip ticket. How many riders are going to pay that fare price? Zero.
So, to get riders aboard HSR, you will need to collect the majority (99%) of the fare price from the California taxpayers (federal taxpayers are not going along for this socialist ride as they do for Amtrak).
If you tax California's taxpayers out of their cars, how will you pay for public sector transit of any kind? Since October 2008 when the Gilroy and Morgan Hill Chambers of Commerce had me debate the Honorable Rod Diridon on the pros and cons of Prop. 1A, CAHSRA's advocates have lied to the voters. In concluding my side of the debate, I pointed out that UPRR would not permit CAHSRA on, over, or under its properties, and that since the Class Ones have federal eminent domain authority, the CAHSRA's inferior (State) eminent domain authority would fall to the Class One under federal preemption principles in the U.S.
Constitution.
The two chambers' members knew the HSR advocates were lying on hearing Rod's closing response to my conclusion: "Don't worry," he told the audience, "We'll run on BNSF tracks and make Gilroy a South Bay Hub of the Bullet Train."
Since the closest BNSF tracks to Gilroy are on Stockton-Fresno Corridor in SJV. the audience could see how the Bullet Train advocates lied to the voters.
Since then, nothing has changed, except CAHSRA's lies have grown bigger and bigger. And taxpayers are getting ripped off to pay for the government's utopian pipedreams, or real nightmares for those paying for Voters deserve the truth in transportation, and I believe that we ought to give it to them.
Caveat viator.
..:
Joseph P. Thompson. Esq.
Past-Chair, Legislation Committee, Transportation Lawyers Assn.
JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ.
https://gilroydispatch.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 2/2
MORGAY HILL
THE TIMES
Letter: Taxpayers deserve the truth in
transportation
BY JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ. - March I1.2025
LETTER TO THE BIITOR
Referring to the U.S.D.O.T. Secretary's announcement of the federal government investigation of the California High Speed Rail Association's SuperMassive Black Hole Bullet Train, taxpayers deserve truth-in- transportation, which we are not getting from public sector transit advocates, e.g., CAHSRA high speed rail Trojan Horse Monstrosity.
Taxpayers say, "Get Real." We cannot afford the additional gas taxes and other taxes/fees that will be required to pay for the construction and capital costs, plus the estimated $1 billion per year annual operating losses, that independent experts predict. What are they smoking at CAHSRA? Worse than the public sector transit model that we already subsidize with our gas taxes, sales taxes, etc., you can see that they are lying, again, if you do the math yourself, and don't swallow the BS-Baloney from CAHSRA and public sector transit advocates.
Using their numbers, 1 million annual riders from Merced to Bakersfield means 500,000 round trips. Fifty billion dollars in capital and construction costs, plus $1 billion in annual operating costs equals $51 billion; if paid by 500,000 riders means fully amortized fares, fully remunerative fares (i.e., fares cover all costs), would put a round trip at $102,000 per passenger.
https://morganhilltimes.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 1/2 At that price it would be cheaper for taxpayers to buy each HSR rider his own Mercedes or BMW. : you stretch recovery of capital and construction costs over a 20 year period, then the fare price drops to only $5,100.00 for a round trip ticket. How many riders are going to pay that fare price? Zero.
So, to get riders aboard HSR, you will need to collect the majority (99%) of the fare price from the California taxpayers (federal taxpayers are not going along for this socialist ride as they do for Amtrak).
If you tax California's taxpayers out of their cars, how will you pay for public sector transit of any kind? Since October 2008 when the Gilroy and Morgan Hill Chambers of Commerce had me debate the Honorable Rod Diridon on the pros and cons of Prop. IA, CAHSRA's advocates have lied to the voters. In concluding my side of the debate. I pointed out that UPRR would not permit CAHSRA on, over, or under its properties, and that since the Class Ones have federal eminent domain authority, the CAHSRA's inferior (State) eminent domain authority would fall to the Class One under federal preemption principles in the U.S.
The two chambers' members knew the HSR advocates were lying on hearing Rod's closing response to my conclusion: "Don't worry." he told the audience, "We'll run on BNSF tracks and make Giroy a South Bay Hub of the Bullet Train."
Since the closest BNSF tracks to Gilroy are on Stockton-Fresno Corridor in SJV, the audience could see how the Bullet Train advocates lied to the voters
Since then, nothing has changed, except CAHSRA's lies have grown bigger and bigger. And taxpayers are geting ripped off to pay for the government's utopian pipedreams. or real nightmares for those paying for Voters deserve the truth in transportation, and I believe that we ought to give it to them.
Caveat viator.
Joseph P. Thompson, Esq.
Past-Chair, Legislation Committee, Transportation Lawyers Assn.
JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ.
https://morganhilltimes.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 2/2 LEuCI. aspayers deserve the trut in transportation - Sanbenito.com | Hollister, San Juan Bautista, CA San Benito
Letter: Taxpayers deserve the truth in
transportation
BY JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ. - March o. 2025
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Referring to the U.S.D.O.T. Secretary's announcement of the federal government investigation of the California High Speed Rail Association's SuperMassive Black Hole Bullet Train, taxpayers deserve truth-in- transportation, which we are not getting from public sector transit advocates, e.g., CAHSRA high speed rail Trojan Horse Monstrosity.
Taxpayers say, "Get Real." We cannot afford the additional gas taxes and other taxes/fees that will be required to pay for the construction and capital costs, plus the estimated $1 billion per year annual operating losses, that independent experts predict. What are they smoking at CAHSRA? Worse than the public sector transit model that we already subsidize with our gas taxes, sales taxes, etc., you can see that they are lying, again, if you do the math yourself, and don't swallow the BS-Baloney from CAHSRA and public sector transit advocates.
Using their numbers, 1 million annual riders from Merced to Bakersfield means 500,000 round trips. Fifty billion dollars in capital and construction costs, plus $1 billion in annual operating costs equals $51 billion; if paid by 500,000 riders means fully amortized fares, fully remunerative fares (i.e., fares cover all costs), would put a round trip at $102,000 per passenger.
https://sanbenito.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 1/2 Leiler. laxpayers deserve ine truth in transportation - Sanbenito.com | Hollister, San Juan Bautista, CA At that price it would be cheaper for taxpayers to buy each HSR rider his own Mercedes or BMW. : If you stretch recovery of capital and construction costs over a 20 year period, then the fare price drops to only $5,100.00 for a round trip ticket. How many riders are going to pay that fare price? Zero. • So, to get riders aboard HSR. you will need to collect the majority (99%) of the fare price from the California taxpayers (federal taxpayers are not going along for this socialist ride as they do for Amtrak).
If you tax California's taxpayers out of their cars, how will you pay for public sector transit of any kind? Since October 2008 when the Gilroy and Morgan Hill Chambers of Commerce had me debate the Honorable Rod Diridon on the pros and cons of Prop. 1A, CAHSRA's advocates have lied to the voters. In concluding my side of the debate, I pointed out that UPRR would not permit CAHSRA on, over, or under its properties, and that since the Class Ones have federal eminent domain authority, the CAHSRA's inferior (State) eminent domain authority would fall to the Class One under federal preemption principles in the U.S.
The two chambers' members knew the HSR advocates were lying on hearing Rod's closing response to my conclusion: "Don't worry," he told the audience, "We'll run on BNSF tracks and make Gilroy a South Bay Hub of the Bullet Train."
Since the closest BNSF tracks to Gilroy are on Stockton-Fresno Corridor in SJV, the audience could see how the Bullet Train advocates lied to the voters.
Since then, nothing has changed, except CAHSRA's lies have grown bigger and bigger. And taxpayers are getting ripped off to pay for the government's utopian pipedreams. or real nightmares for those paying for Voters deserve the truth in transportation, and i believe that we ought to give it to them.
Caveat viator.
Joseph P. Thompson, Esq.
Past-Chair, Legislation Committee, Transportation Lawyers Assn.
JOSEPH P. THOMPSON, ESQ.
https://sanbenito.com/letter-taxpayers-deserve-the-truth-in-transportation/ 2/2
GUESI VIEW
11-15-17
JOSEPH THOMPSON
High Speed Rail project
is a giant boondoggle
The folkroing was submitted by email to the unsound, and unsustainable transport policy.
Morgan Hill City Council as public input prior
to the council's scheduled Nov. 15 workshop on Taxing people out of their cars is a public the California High Speed Ruil project. policy plunging us down the Road to Serfdom, intended to cripple our state's economy.
am a past President of Gilroy-Morgan
Hill Bar Association, a member of the We already pay our taxes for many wasteful Transportation Lawyers Association, boondoggles like Amtrak, Caltrain, ACE Train.
BART, Light Rail and county transit, when it
and past Chair of TLA's Legislation would be much cheaper for taxpayers if wejust Committee. I have practiced
transportation law in the South County purchased each transit rider his own BMW, or for 38 years, and have done post-doctoral paid his taxi fare, or his Uber fare. study of transportation law and policy at the
Norman Y. Mineta International Institute for We already pay Surface Transportation Policy Studies, and at
Transportation Rescarch Board, Georgetown our taxes for many University; and at the Library of Congress. 1 wasteful boondoggles like am a graduate of SJSU, and the University of
Santa Clara Law School, and I have 52 years Amtrak, Caltrain, ACE of transportation industry experience dating
back to my junior ycar at Cupertino High Train, BART, Light Rail School, when I worked for the SPRR, and later and county transit, when at UPRR in San Jose (1970-1980).
My comments are personal, and not it would be much cheaper made on behalf of a client or any professional
organization to which I belong. for taxpayers if we just For a state that cannot afford adequate
fire suppression, or water storage, it is bad purchased each transit public policy to add to the public transit rider his own BMW. boondoggles that the taxpayers (mostly
motorists) already shoulder, under the worst
tax/fee burdens among all the states. California's voters voted for self-suflicient What the California High Speed Rail high speed rail, not a Supermassive Black Hole Authority is doing, which is not what voters added to the already intolerable public sector voted for in Prop. 1A in 2008, is contrary transit Black Holes that our lost leadership forces us to subsidize.
to the conclusions of both the President's
Blue Ribbon Commission on Transport This bad public policy is making Funding, and the California Transportation California into Northern Venezuela. I urge Commission. Both of them concluded that we local leaders to support the repeal of Prop. IA.
Caveat viator:
ought to fund transport with "user fees."
Giving away transit rides, by any mode, Joseph Thompson is an attorney whose late with fares near zero, diverting the costs to offices are in Gilroy. He cun be reuched at [email protected].
motorists' gas and diesel taxes, is unfair,
HORGAN HILA