From: Michelle Higginbotham
Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2022 4:13 PM
To: Erica Inderlied
Subject: Public Comment on item 12-B 3/1/2022 city council meeting
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Honorable Mayor and City Council members,
I have concerns about the relocation of the tennis courts on Bello Street. Moving these courts to the school district property, in my opinion only serves the benefit of the school. In reviewing the conceptual plan, it appears the courts will not be visible to the general public, there is no public/street parking, and how will the residents of Pismo Beach know which 30 days the courts are not available? A sidewalk is a wonderful idea, but how will the residents know how to access? Going back many years, the city paid for playground equipment at Shell Beach elementary school in the hopes that this improvement would benefit both the students and our residents. The school later became fenced off.
Is there a maintenance agreement? Will the city be solely responsible for the site? Given the poor condition of the existing courts, I am very aware of the use of both the tennis and basketball courts. They are used!. In Pismo Heights, we have very little recreation opportunities. Boosinger Park is a wonderful place, but does not offer the opportunities for tennis and basketball. While I appreciate partnering with our schools, at the end of the day I believe this will only benefit the school district.
I have always been in full support of public safety and know first hand improvements need to be made for police and fire. At the end of the day with the acquisition of the adjacent single family home, was any consideration made to keep and improve the Bello courts?
As for the Ventana site, consideration for parking and increased basketball courts is noted.
However, it leaves us in the heights without a nearby place to play. I have lived in the Pismo Heights since 1984. My children grew up on a street with only two other children in residence.
There are now 9 children on our street with more coming! The demographics have changed and I would appreciate looking at opportunities to meet the needs of the residents.
Thank you very much for discussing this item at the goal setting and for reading my comments.
Respectfully,
Shelly Higginbotham
Tulare Street