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CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - COACHELLA VALLEY HORSE RESCUE PROGRAM FLYER BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 2 - COMMUNITY SERVICES GRANTS 2ND ROUND FISCAL YEAR 2024/25 1 From: Kraig Johnson <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 31, 2025 2:02 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written comments re: HARC grant
Good afternoon.
Jewish Family Service of the Desert (JFS) provides many important services to people throughout the Coachella Valley, including to La Quinta residents. We're very grateful for the generous grant provided by La Quinta that helps us offer emergency financial assistance to your residents for necessities such as overdue rent and utilities, food and medications, and we applaud your efforts to support those lucky enough to call La Quinta "home."
As the JFS Executive Director, one of my roles is to garner grant support to help cover the costs to offer our low- to no-cost services, and we often use HARC's Coachella Valley Community Health Survey data to describe community need to would-be grantors. It is really the only source of Coachella Valleyspecific data we can depend on, and we find it to be invaluable.
For example, HARC's data on mental health needs and the barriers to receiving mental health care in the Coachella Valley has helped us be able to provide counseling for individuals, adults, children, adolescents, and seniors. In the past year, we've provided counseling services to over 100 La Quinta residents.
HARC is also the only source of data on loneliness among Coachella Valley residents. This information has helped us to identify the needs and provide our many services to combat isolation, including "Let's Do Lunch!", our Call Tree program, and our Friendly Visitor program. Approximately 50 La Quinta residents have utilized these services in the past year.
For the sake of the mental health of your residents, please consider funding the 2025 Coachella Valley Community Health Survey because it helps many residents of La Quinta and the entire community.
If possible, please consider reading this comment for the record at the City Council Meeting.
Thank you.
Kraig
--
Kraig Johnson
Executive Director
Jewish Family Service of the Desert
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOHNSON OF THE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE OF THE DESERT - BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 2 - COMMUNITY SERVICES GRANTS - COMMENTS REGARDING APPLICANT HARC, INC.
490 S. Farrell Drive, Suite C-208
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760/325-4088 ext. 101
760/778-3781 FAX
1 From: Edward Armendarez <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 10:01 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Preserving the Desert Club "Lumberyard" Building Dear Madam Mayor, City Council and City Manager,
I am writing in support of preserving and protecting the historic building known as the Desert Club “Lumberyard,” next to the Museum. It is a rare example of California Monterey architecture and adds charm and value to our city. It has an interesting historic past, and as you know, was the location of the Village Park Animal Hospital, where we first brought our pets when we moved here. It seemed like such a “desert” place with its thick walls and cool interior (despite the summer heat), and contributed to my appreciation of La Quinta and it’s history.
The La Quinta Resort is what many people think of as “La Quinta.” It’s maintained its original beauty and appeal and stands out from others in its class. It’s unique and charming. There is value to this. We have an “Old Town,” that isn’t old, but is attractive because it mimics an older epoch. The Lumberyard is the real thing, just like the resort is. It’s part of our history that is irreplaceable. It’s perfect in its place.
I only recently visited the Cabot’s Pueblo Museum. The inside wasn’t much, but the outside was exquisite. I know they host many events there, on the outside. Can the Lumberyard be used not only as an extension of our museum, but a place were events can be held?
The Resort, the casitas in the Cove, and the Lumberyard all contribute to the value of the Gem of the Desert.
They are rare and irreplaceable. We should preserve and protect them.
Thank you for your kind attention to this matter,
Edward Armendarez
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT EDWARD ARMENDAREZ BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Mike Bebb <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 10:06 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments - Mike Bebb, La Quinta, Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard Vote
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Preserve the Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard Building Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council Members,
I am writing to respectfully urge you to vote in favor of preserving and retrofitting the historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard building. This site is a significant part of our city’s history, representing La Quinta’s unique heritage, charm, and characteristic elements that make our community so special.
The Desert Club Lumberyard is more than just an old building; it is a tangible connection to our past, reflecting the early development of La Quinta and the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Its rustic architecture and deep-rooted history contribute to the distinct identity of our city. Preserving this landmark honors the legacy of those who built La Quinta and maintains the aesthetic appeal that attracts residents and visitors alike.
While progress and development are important, we do not have to erase our past to move forward. Many cities have successfully revitalized historic structures, integrating them into modern uses while maintaining their character. The cost of retrofitting may seem daunting, but with creative solutions including grants, publicprivate partnerships, and adaptive reuse strategies so the building can continue to serve our community in meaningful ways.
Demolishing the Desert Club Lumberyard would be an irreversible loss. Instead, let’s find a way to celebrate and repurpose it as a historical and cultural asset perhaps as a museum, community center, or public gathering space. This approach aligns with the values of sustainability, historical preservation, and responsible urban planning.
I urge you to listen to the many voices in our community who see the value in preserving this irreplaceable piece of La Quinta’s history. Please vote to protect the Desert Club Lumberyard so future generations can appreciate and enjoy it as we have.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Joy Lynne & Michael Bebb
77680 Calle Madrid
La Quinta
[email protected]
214-697-2776
Date: 2/4/2025
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENTS MICHAEL & JOY LYNNE BEBB BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Bill Borders <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 10:56 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments, from Bill Borders, La Quinta, SAVE THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING.
Hindsight has a way of highlighting humanity's ignorance and wisdom.
Countless architectural gems around the world have been demolished in the interest of short term “progress” while others have been wisely preserved for the sake of cultural history.
Our little lumberyard building is no Greek temple or Fairbanks House of Massachusetts, but it’s one of very few pieces of La Quinta lore that we have left.
I urge the city council to take the wiser, long term view and preserve this classic example of Monterey architecture for today’s residents & visitors.
And tomorrows'!
Thank you,
Bill
Bill Borders
53490 Avenida Montezuma
La Quinta, CA 92253
208.290.3064
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT BILL BORDERS BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: ANITA BROADY <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 9:23 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: “Written Comments”: Anita Broady, La Quinta, CA, Desert Club Lumberyard Preservation
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
My vote is to preserve this landmark.
Anita Broady
610-883-7270
When facing life’s problems, let prayer be your first resource, not your last resort.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT ANITA BROADY BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 6:56 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments: Llora Cassel La Quinta Desert Club Lumber Yard Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To Whom It May Concern:
It has come to my understanding that the City will be voting on the Desert Club Lumber Yard's future. Please vote for restoring it. One of the things that makes La Quinta special in the desert is it's history. We have so little history it would be wonderful to have the old lumber yard to look to as a historic building. It would also make a great event venue.
Thanks
Llora Cassel
22 year La Quinta Cove resident
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT LLORA CASSEL BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Michael & MIke <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 10:03 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments
Michael Chanco and Mike Paganelli
La Quinta, CA
Subject: Museum Campus Redesign
As residents of historic La Quinta Cove, we were drawn to the city not only by its natural beauty but by the charming historical architecture. One way La Quinta stands apart from other cities in the valley is the Spanish colonial style that was established 100 years ago with the casitas of La Quinta Resort. We strongly believe it is in the city's best interest to not only preserve La Quinta's historical structures (like the lumberyard), but also to incorporate the charming and historic style into new builds as well. Many of California's most beautiful and sought after cities (Carmel, Santa Barbara, etc.) have a unifying architectural theme. La Quinta has the opportunity to preserve its historical structures by keeping the Lumberyard and guide future developments to be consistent with the historical style that make La Quinta unique. Once they are gone there is no getting them back, and it is our belief that this is a real detriment to the current and future residents of our City.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENTS MICHAEL CHANCO & MIKE PAGANELLI - BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE
LUMBERYARD BUILDING
1 From: Christa Christopherson <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, February 2, 2025 3:31 PM
To: City Clerk Mail <[email protected]>
Subject: Written Comments
La Quinta City Council Members:
This email is to express my interest in preserving the historical integrity of the La Quinta Lumberyard building. Preservation of both buildings on the property, are integral to the beauty of La Quinta and more importantly in ensuring that the history of the community is secured for future generations.
The Santa Fe style architecture of the Lumberyard and the historic Casitas, all evolving from the development and popularity of the Resort are specifically unique to our community. Preserving the integrity and style of the Lumberyard while at the same time fitting it for current and future uses would be a worthwhile allocation of city resources as it will serve to benefit the community for many years to come, just as it did in the past.
Thank you for your consideration,
Christa Christopherson
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT CHRISTA CHRISTOPHERSON BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Krista Ducey <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 8:05 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Cc: Krista Ducey
Subject: Save our Precious La Quinta Site & History
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Hello,
We are residents of La Quinta and we wanted to share our wishes for one of the few remaining historical buildings in our beautiful, historic town. While the world continues to break ground on new shiny developments (of which there are plenty of them), we should consider the importance of understanding our roots, our history and work to keep the few precious buildings that represent the foundation of the town we now love to live in and want to share with friends, family and visitors.
We can’t go back from decisions like this. We can never rebuild historical sites that tell the story of the past.
Our world needs the few remaining icons of the past to ground us, to ensure history is understood and not forgotten.
Please don’t tear down the one of the last few remaining buildings where La Quinta history sits. There is ample room in so many locations here in the desert to develop. Use this space to extend the draw of our amazing town. Restore this location and expand the museum grounds to drive more interest and sponsorship and preserve our history. Please.
Thank you for considering.
Colin and Krista Ducey
Desert Club Estates
78620 Avenida Nuestra
La Quinta, CA 92253
408 528 4484
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT COLIN & KRISTA DUCEY BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: The Desert Way with Jaylyn and John <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 10:39 AM
To: Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Please SAVE the Lumberyard Building in Old Town LQ! Dear La Quinta Council,
I am a full-time resident of La Quinta and a local historian. I am also a Neighborhood Watch volunteer.
One of the topics on the agenda today will be about the fate of the Lumberyard Building next to the La Quinta Museum. It served an important role in the earliest development of La Quinta.
The building was the original sawmill where all of the lumber was processed for the construction of the beautiful La Quinta Hotel and many of the Cove casitas. In addition, the red clay tiles were formed on site over the knees of laborers.
Old Town La Quinta is not really old in historical terms since it was built in 2002. It is the inclusion of buildings like the Lumberyard Building and the Casita that lends its authenticity and credibility to the name Old Town.
La Quinta is called "The Gem of the Desert," and indeed it is.The addition of the planned LQ Cultural Campus is an exciting development which will benefit La Quinta's citizens and visitors. I am encouraging the City Council to preserve the Lumberyard Building. If the city decides to destroy the building, it will be destroying a part of its important past.
Thank you for your kind consideration.
Jay L. Earl
www.thedesertway.com
760-987-0331
--
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT JAY EARL BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING
1 From: michael hayes <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:42 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments re:Lumberyard Buildings
Dear La Quinta,
Please don't allow the historic Lumberyard buildings to be demolished.
I encourage the city council to preserve both of the historic buildings on the property.
A big part of the charm of this city is its wonderful history.
I've been a homeowner here for forty years.
Thank you,
Michael Hayes
La Quinta, CA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT MICHAEL HAYES BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Dave Heckman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 9:09 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Written Comments
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Losing the beautiful La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard building with the hand-painted mural is a treasure in the City of La Quinta that should be restored not destroyed.
David Heckman 51555 Avenida Navarro La Quinta, CA.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT DAVID HECKMAN BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: cheryl heineman <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 31, 2025 11:43 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Lumberyard building
I have lived in La Quinta for 15 years, and I love the look of that building. Please do not demolish it. Besides, I remember when the veterinarians used to operate there, and that was the place where I took my dog when she had to be put down. I think we need to preserve our history. Thank you.
Cheryl Heineman
51720 Avenida Juarez
La Quinta, CA 92253
Sent from my iPhone
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT CHERYL HEINEMAN BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: slh0818 (null) <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 11:05 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: Lumber yard
To whom it may concern,
I am writing in reference to the proposed demolition and redevelopment of the lumberyard and would like to express my extreme opposition to it. Our historical buildings are local treasures, and are one of the things that contribute to the uniqueness and beauty of our community. They benefit the community not only through our own personal enjoyment of them, but also as a draw for those who come during the season to enjoy them as well. This helps our community in revenues for which we all benefit.
Thank you for your reconsideration of this proposed project.
Sincerely,
Sue Hertzog
Oak Tree
La Quinta, California
Sent from my iPhone
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT SUE HERTZOG BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Jeanine Hill <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 10:34 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: LUMBERYARD preservation
To the city of La Quinta,
I am a new resident of the cove in La Quinta. My other home is in the city of Orange near Old Town Orange which was built in the 20s. There has been a lot of demolishing of many historical sites until the preservation society came along. We as a society are losing much of our history. The fires in Los Angeles where I grew up are a perfect example of many historical buildings that have been destroyed that can never be brought back to life. Please consider saving this small building as a historical site of the city. I fell in love with the old part of La Quinta and was heartbroken to know that the resort was torn down. It would be so sad to lose a part of the city’s history to make something new. Preserve something old and have new memories in it. The building is magical.
The moment I got off the fwy on Washington to look for homes 3 years ago, I fell in love with the magic of La Quinta thinking I would always buy in Palm Springs. This is now my home. I would love to see the city make something useful of this building and keep the history. Don’t let the history die like many buildings in Hollywood that have been lost with no one caring about history.
Thanks so much,
Jeanine Hill
714-392-6106
Sent from my iPhone
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT JEANINE HILL BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Anne OBrien <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 8:09 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: The Lumberyard
Hello,
I strongly support the inclusion of the Lumberyard building in the plans for the Cultural Center.
La Quinta has such an interesting history and we need to do everything possible to retain all buildings and landmarks that remind us of it. I feel confident that the building could be a useful meeting or small event space for La Quinta residents.
Thank you for your consideration,
Anne O’Brien
La Quinta Cove
Sent from my iPad
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT ANNE O'BRIEN BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Peter Schwartz <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 7:13 AM
To: City Clerk Mail
Subject: “Written Comments” Peter Schwartz , La Quinta, Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear Members of the City Council,
I am writing to urge you to preserve the Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard, a cherished landmark that embodies the rich cultural and historical tapestry of our community. This site is more than just an old structure —it is a living reminder of our city's heritage, a touchstone for community identity, and a potential catalyst for future economic and cultural development.
1. A Testament to Our Heritage
The Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard represents a unique period in our city's evolution. Preserving it honors the labor, craftsmanship, and spirit of those who built and sustained our community. It stands as an educational resource for future generations to learn about the challenges and triumphs of our past.
2. Economic and Cultural Revitalization
Historic sites are proven engines of economic revitalization. By saving and repurposing the lumberyard, we can stimulate local tourism, create jobs, and attract new businesses. Adaptive reuse of historic properties often results in vibrant community spaces that host cultural events, art exhibitions, and local markets—thus breathing new life into the area while respecting its past.
3. Community Identity and Civic Pride
The preservation of landmarks instills a sense of pride and belonging among residents. The lumberyard is a unique asset that distinguishes our city from others, serving as a physical narrative of our collective journey.
Saving it sends a powerful message: that we value and invest in our cultural legacy, fostering a deeper connection among residents and enhancing community engagement.
4. Sustainable Development and Environmental Stewardship Restoration and adaptive reuse of existing structures align with sustainable development principles. By rehabilitating the lumberyard, we reduce urban sprawl and the environmental impact associated with new construction. This approach not only preserves historical authenticity but also promotes environmental stewardship—a win-win for our community and the planet.
5. A Platform for Future Innovation
The preserved site can be transformed into a multi-use facility—a community center, museum, or event space—tailored to serve the evolving needs of La Quinta. Such innovation can serve as a model for other cities, demonstrating how historical preservation and modern development can coexist and complement one another.
In conclusion, saving the Historic La Quinta Desert Club Lumberyard is an investment in our future. It represents an opportunity to honor our past while laying the groundwork for a thriving, dynamic community. I respectfully urge the city council to consider this proposal not as a relic of bygone days but as a cornerstone for tomorrow’s prosperity.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.
Sincerely,
Pete Schwartz
La Quinta resident
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT PETE SCHWARTZ BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 8:43 PM
To: City Clerk Mail
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Desert Club Lumberyard
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Subject: Desert Club Lumberyard
I urge the council to avoid demolition of history in the Cove and preserve the integrity of the Desert Club Lumberyard. Having a home in the Cove since 2006, I have appreciation of the history and beauty.
Please consider a choice that reflects the community, past and into the present.
Robbi Simons
La Quinta Cove
[email protected]
Sent from AOL on Android
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT ROBBI SIMONS BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Star <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:36 PM
To: Council <[email protected]>
Subject: Lumberyard building
I just heard of the city's plan to tear down this building. I'm a former member of the LA CONSERVANCY, dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings. Please do not tear this gorgeous building down. It should be preserved. Nothing can replace this beautiful desert structure. There are so few old structures here in the desert so we should preserve what we can. Thanks. Eileen Walsh, Avenida Ramirez.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT EILEEN WALSH BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING 1 From: Kay Wolff <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 2, 2025 3:19 PM
To: City Clerk Mail <[email protected]>
Subject: FEBRUARY 4 COUNCIL BUSINESS SESSION #3
I am writing to support the “Lumberyard Property” preservation at the proposed Cultural Campus.
This is a one-of-a-kind example of the old California Monterey architectural style in the Cove, and is an asset that will not only preserve local history, but also boost tourism. It is a charming part of the Museum complex, and I am thrilled that HGA has deemed its renovation costs to be well within the budget limits.
The construction office (and lumberyard) is one of the earliest buildings in the Cove. The office is literally “the room where it happened”, that is, the layout of the Cove streets and the construction of the west-side berm for flood control. Here, the two Big Bear developers (Keiner and Maltby) launched the construction of the Desert Club and conceived of the small casitas for club members to purchase.
While the Desert Club opened in 1937 with just a few casitas constructed, World War II interrupted the venture. The construction office closed down and over the years, it housed an early post office, various real estate offices, a veterinary hospital and a pet boarding enterprise. The goings-on at the construction office and upstairs apartment are the stuff of legends.
I agree with the demolition of the actual lumberyard portion of the site, as it will be replaced with the archives building, as I understand. However, the preservation of the beautiful mural facing East will require careful work.
Thank you for your consideration of this scenic and historic building. It compliments the whole Museum complex and has great potential for cultural and tourist activities. It is a part of our past AND our future.
Thanks.
Kay Wolff
77227 Calle Ensenada
760-564-4070
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - FEBRUARY 4, 2025 - WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM RESIDENT KAY WOLFF BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3 - CULTURAL CAMPUS - COMMENTS REGARDING PRESERVING THE LUMBERYARD BUILDING