City Council Special Meeting - May 13, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER
Public Comments:
Mayor Arapostathis called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m.
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public Comments
Dr. Jason Gordon and Family
Public Comment – Opposition to Proposed Rail Trail Project Lemon Ave/Spring Street As residents and stakeholders, we oppose the proposed rail trail and associated infrastructure projects outlined in the “Bike and Sidewalk Connections Planning Phase” due to serious concerns regarding the City of La Mesa’s current inability to manage critical public issues.
While we support thoughtful urban improvements, this project is being advanced in a context where the city has not adequately addressed persistent and worsening problems with:
• Homelessness, including existing encampments near proposed trail areas. • Litter and public sanitation, which will likely increase with more foot traffic. • Safety and crime, especially with increased access to residential zones and secluded areas. • Traffic congestion, which could worsen with street reconfigurations and narrowed lanes. • Street lighting, which is inconsistent and will impact residents’ privacy if expanded. • Infrastructure upkeep, including ongoing problems with drainage, lighting, and street safety, which remain unresolved despite years of community requests.
It is premature and irresponsible to undertake new public access pathways through quiet neighborhoods when the city has not demonstrated the capacity to maintain current infrastructure or safeguard residents from crime and quality-of-life degradation. This project is likely to create more risks than benefits.
We urge the City Council to reject and relocate this project as there are other priorities the city should be prioritizing and managing at this time.
Dr. Jason Gordon and family submitted a public comment regarding their opposition to the proposed Rail Trail Project at Lemon Avenue/Spring Street, citing concerns about homelessness, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and the City of La Mesa’s ability to manage existing community issues.
Mayor Arapostathis adjourned the meeting to Closed Session at 5:03 p.m.
3. CLOSED SESSION
Public Comments:
3.1 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.6 Public Comments:
Agency Negotiator: Ms. Spaniol
Employee Organization: La Mesa City Employees Association The meeting reconvened at 5:31 p.m. with all members present.
4. REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION - CITY ATTORNEY
Public Comments:
City Attorney Sabine announced there were no reportable actions.
5. ADJOURNMENT
Public Comments:
Mayor Arapostathis adjourned the meeting at 5:31 p.m.