Monday March 3, 2025
Santa Clarita City Council
23920 Valencia Blvd #120,
Valencia, CA 91355
Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I am writing to offer my full support for the mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall. As a local business owner in the Newhall area, I understand the importance of continued growth and development in ensuring our community remains vibrant and economically strong.
The addition of 78 apartment units and 5,300 square feet of retail space will provide critical support to local businesses like mine by attracting more residents and visitors to the area. With more people living and working in Newhall, we will see an increase in foot traffic, which is essential for local businesses to succeed.
The retail spaces in this development offer incredible potential for new businesses, and I’m excited to see what will open up in the area. Newhall has become a destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment, and this project will only enhance that appeal creating a hub for communal gatherings. Moreover, the successful revitalization seen with Newhall Crossings shows that smart development can drive economic growth while maintaining the unique charm of the neighborhood.
This new development is the kind of project that can bring positive change, not just for businesses, but for residents as well. I wholeheartedly support the project and look forward to the continued prosperity it will bring to Newhall.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Adriana Farrell
Cruz’s Bridal Boutique
661-263-2990
[email protected]
Tuesday March 11, 2025
Dear Santa Clarita City Council,
Having grown up in Santa Clarita, I have always loved the sense of community and connection that this city offers. One of my favorite ways to spend the weekend is heading down to Old Town Newhall to explore the shops, grab a bite to eat at one of the amazing restaurants, catch a movie at Laemmle, and stroll through the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Newhall has become a true destination, filled with energy, local charm, and a vibrant mix of businesses that make it such a special place.
The growth and revitalization of Newhall over the years has been incredible to witness, and I know this new development will only add to its success. Bringing in more retail and restaurants means even more opportunities for residents and visitors to shop local and enjoy everything this area has to offer. It’s exciting to think about the new businesses that will open and the way this project will continue to enhance the community atmosphere that makes Newhall so unique.
Beyond just creating new spaces for businesses to thrive, this development will strengthen Newhall’s role as a gathering place for our city. More people living and working in the area will bring even more energy to Main Street, helping local restaurants and shops flourish while making Newhall an even more dynamic and inviting destination.
Santa Clarita has always done a great job of balancing growth with preserving the character of its neighborhoods, and this project is a perfect example of that. It will build upon the success of Newhall Crossings while maintaining the charm and history of Old Town Newhall. I have no doubt that it will be a great addition to the community and provide lasting benefits for residents, business owners, and visitors alike.
I am excited to see this project come to life and fully support its approval. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best Regards,
Allison Rendall
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
RE: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Project at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
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/ĂŵǁƌŝƟŶŐƚŽƐƚƌŽŶŐůLJƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ƚŚĞƵƉĐŽŵŝŶŐŵŝdžĞĚ-use development project on Main Street in Newhall. I have had business in Santa Clarita for over seventeen years, and it has been a wonderful place to ďƵŝůĚůĂƐƟŶŐƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉƐǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘ As someone who has witnessed ^ĂŶƚĂůĂƌŝƚĂΖƐŐƌŽǁƚŚ͕/ĮƌŵůLJďĞůŝĞǀĞƚŚĂƚĐŽŶƟŶƵĞĚ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ͕ĞƐƉĞĐŝĂůůLJŝŶEĞǁŚĂůů͕ŝƐĐƌƵĐŝĂůĨŽƌŽƵƌĐŝƚLJ͛ƐƉƌŽƐƉĞƌŝƚLJ͘EĞǁŚĂůůŚĂƐůŽŶŐďĞĞŶ ƚŚĞŚĞĂƌƚŽĨ^ĂŶƚĂůĂƌŝƚĂ͕ĂŶĚƉƌŽũĞĐƚƐůŝŬĞƚŚŝƐŽŶĞĂƌĞĞƐƐĞŶƟĂůƚŽĞŶƐƵƌĞƚŚĂƚŝƚĐŽŶƟŶƵĞƐƚŽ thrive and remain a central hub for our community.
dŚŝƐƉƌŽũĞĐƚĞdžĐŝƚĞƐŵĞďĞĐĂƵƐĞŽĨƚŚĞŐƌŽǁƚŚŝƚǁŝůůďƌŝŶŐƚŽEĞǁŚĂůů͘dŚĞĂĚĚŝƟŽŶŽĨϳϴŶĞǁ apartment units will provide much-ŶĞĞĚĞĚŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ͕ǁŚŝůĞƚŚĞϱ͕ϯϬϬƐƋƵĂƌĞĨĞĞƚŽĨƌĞƚĂŝůƐƉĂĐĞ ǁŝůůŽīĞƌŶĞǁďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐĞƐƚŚĞĐŚĂŶĐĞƚŽŇŽƵƌŝƐŚŝŶƚŚĞĂƌĞĂ͘More businesses come with more ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐĨŽƌůŽĐĂůũŽďƐĂŶĚƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͕ǁŚŝĐŚour community can ƐŝŐŶŝĮĐĂŶƚůLJ ďĞŶĞĮƚĨƌŽŵ͘ ,ĂǀŝŶŐǁĂƚĐŚĞĚEĞǁŚĂůůƌŽƐƐŝŶŐƐΖƐƵĐĐĞƐƐ ĮƌƐƚŚĂŶĚ͕/͛ǀĞƐĞĞŶŚŽǁƌĞǀŝƚĂůŝnjŝŶŐĂŶĂƌĞĂĐĂŶ ĐƌĞĂƚĞĂƐƚƌŽŶŐĞƌ͕ŵŽƌĞǀŝďƌĂŶƚĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘dŚĞŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞĚĨŽŽƚƚƌĂĸĐĂŶĚďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐĂĐƟǀŝƚLJŚĂǀĞ enhanced the local economy and ŵĂĚĞƚŚĞĂƌĞĂŵŽƌĞĂƉƉĞĂůŝŶŐƚŽĨĂŵŝůŝĞƐĂŶĚŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƐ ƐĞĞŬŝŶŐĂǁĞůĐŽŵŝŶŐŶĞŝŐŚďŽƌŚŽŽĚƚŽůŝǀĞŝŶ͘
For these reasons, I fully support the mixed-use development project on Main Street. It ƉƌŽŵŝƐĞƐƚŽďƌŝŶŐŽƵƌĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJĐŽŶƟŶƵĞĚŐƌŽǁƚŚ͕ǀŝďƌĂŶĐLJ͕ĂŶĚŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ. dŚĂŶŬLJŽƵĨŽƌLJŽƵƌƟŵĞĂŶĚĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĂƟŽŶ͘
Sincerely,
Amer Nackoud
24301 Main St, Newhall, CA 91321
amernackoƵŽƵĚΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ
Wednesday March 12, 2025
RE: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Project at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I’m writing in support of the proposed mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall, CA. I’ve been a Los Angeles resident for nearly 20 years, and I recently became the owner and operator of a business on Main Street in Newhall.
As a business owner who has come to know everything that Santa Clarita has to offer, I fully believe that development projects such as this one are vital in ensuring that the community has renewed and centralized spaces as the Newhall and wider Santa Clarita Valley continue to grow.
This project brings with it the addition of 78 new apartment units, an essential addition to local housing options, as well as 5,300 square feet of retail space that will welcome new businesses a chance to move in and thrive. Attracting more businesses to the community is essential for the growth of opportunities in local jobs, services, and amenities. This will bring an immediate return to both long-time residents and newer members of the community.
It's easy to see the potential of Newhall with continued growth, and the results of some of the more recent projects like Newhall Crossings have had immediate beneficial impacts on the community, both as a business owner and regular visitor.
I give my full support to the mixed-use development project on Main Street, and I hope for its success and look forward to all the potential opportunities it will bring.
Sincerely,
Andrew Fleischer
24257 Main Street
Newhall, CA 91321
[email protected]
Chris & Jesenia Pena
The Cart Collective
25848 Springbrook Ave. #6
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
[email protected]
03/02/2025
Dear Santa Clarita City Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my full support for the Serrano Development Group’s proposed mixed-use project in Santa Clarita. Their developments are not only thoughtfully designed but also bring lasting value to our community by enhancing both the aesthetic and economic landscape of our city.
This project, with its combination of residential and commercial spaces, is exactly the type of development that will help Santa Clarita continue to thrive. The top four levels dedicated to residential housing will provide much-needed living spaces in a growing city, while the ground level will add vibrant commercial opportunities that benefit both residents and local businesses.
One of the key highlights of this project is the inclusion of the Horseshoe Bar, a beloved local gathering place. The Horseshoe Bar has long been a staple in our community during the holidays, offering a welcoming space where people can come together in a positive and lively environment. Having it as a cornerstone of this new development ensures that we maintain a strong sense of local culture while also embracing progress.
The Serrano Development Group has consistently demonstrated their commitment to quality and community-focused projects, and I have no doubt that this development will add to the charm and vitality of Santa Clarita. By supporting this project, we are investing in a future that balances modern growth with the heart of what makes our city special.
I strongly urge the Planning Commission to approve this development, as it will not only create a beautiful addition to our city but also stimulate local business and provide valuable residential options for our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Chris & Jesenia Pena
Wednesday March 5, 2025
RE: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Project at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I am writing to express my strong support for the upcoming mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall. I have been a business owner in Santa Clarita for over 20 years, and it has been a wonderful place to build lasting relationships within the community.
As someone who has witnessed the growth of Santa Clarita, I firmly believe that continued development, especially in Newhall, is crucial for our city’s prosperity. Newhall has long been the heart of Santa Clarita, and projects like this one are essential to ensure that it continues to thrive and remain a central hub for our community.
This project excites me because of the growth it will bring to Newhall. The addition of 78 new apartment units will provide much-needed housing, while the 5,300 square feet of retail space will offer new businesses the chance to flourish in the area. With more businesses comes more opportunities for local jobs and services, which is something our community can greatly benefit from.
Having watched the success of Newhall Crossings firsthand, I’ve seen how revitalizing an area can create a stronger, more vibrant community. The increased foot traffic and business activity have not only enhanced the local economy but have also helped make my business flourish and attract families to the area.
For these reasons, I fully support the mixed-use development project on Main Street. It promises to bring continued growth, vibrancy, and opportunities to our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Louise Castaldo
Owner Eighth & Rail
22505 8th Street,
Newhall, CA 91321
[email protected]
818-802-6941
Santa Clarita City Council
23920 Valencia Blvd #120,
Valencia, CA 91355
Monday March 3, 2025
Letter of Support for the Newhall Mixed-Use Project
Dear Santa Clarita City Council,
I am writing to express my strong support for the new mixed -use development in Old Town Newhall. As President and CEO of The Rodriguez State Farm Agency, founder of EliteX netowrk, and—most importantly—a proud father of two boys, I have built my life and businesses in Santa Clarita. This city has given my family and me incredible opportunities, and I am always excited to see smart developments that will continue to foster growth for local businesses and residents alike.
Newhall Crossings was a game -changer for Main Street, bringing in a wave of energy, new businesses, and a sense of community that continues to thrive today. As a business owner, I have seen firsthand how important it is to have developments that attract mo re foot traffic and create spaces where entrepreneurs can succeed. This new project has the potential to do just that — strengthening our local economy and providing more opportunities for business owners and families in Santa Clarita.
The addition of new retail and housing will only enhance the momentum we’ve already seen in Newhall. More businesses mean more job opportunities and more reasons for people to stay and spend their money within our community. The thoughtful design of this project ensures that it will complement the existing charm of Main Street while introducing modern conveniences that will benefit both longtime residents and newcomers.
Beyond the economic benefits, this development will also contribute to the cultural and social vibrancy of Old Town Newhall. With more residents living in the heart of the city, there will be an even stronger sense of community, as people gather to enjoy t he restaurants, shops, and entertainment that make Newhall such a special place. I have always believed that thriving communities are built around strong local businesses, and this project will create an environment where those businesses can flourish.
As Santa Clarita continues to grow, it’s important that we embrace projects that align with our city’s vision for the future. Developments like this help ensure that future generations will have a place where they can live, work, and build their own legaci es, just as I have had the privilege of doing. I am excited to see this project bring new energy and opportunities to Main Street, reinforcing Santa Clarita’s reputation as one of the best places to live and do business.
For all these reasons, I fully support this project and look forward to seeing how it will positively impact Old Town Newhall and Santa Clarita as a whole. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best Regards,
Henry Rodriguez
President and CEO of The Rodriguez State Farm Agency
Founder of EliteX Network
[email protected]
Josh Pitts
Owner, The Break Room
22620 Lyons Ave.
Newhall, CA 91321
March 12, 2025
Santa Clarita Planning Commission
23920 Valencia Blvd, Suite 300
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Subject: Letter of Support for the Mixed-Use Project at Market St. & Main St.
Dear Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed Mixed-Use project at the corner of Market St. and Main St. in Old Town Newhall. As the owner of The Break Room, a local business that thrives on the energy and growth of our community, I believe this development will be a significant asset to the area.
This project, featuring 78 apartment units above 5,300 square feet of ground-floor retail, aligns with the ongoing revitalization of Old Town Newhall. The addition of new residential and commercial spaces will help drive foot traffic, increase business opportunities, and contribute to the vibrancy of our neighborhood. Furthermore, the inclusion of both on-grade and subterranean parking ensures that the development remains accessible to residents and visitors alike.
The continued investment in Newhall’s infrastructure and economy is essential for our community’s growth. This project represents a thoughtful approach to mixed-use development that will complement existing businesses while fostering a thriving, walkable downtown.
I fully support this project and encourage the Santa Clarita Planning Commission to approve it. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to seeing the positive impact this development will bring to our community.
Sincerely,
Josh Pitts
Owner, The Break Room
22620 Lyons Ave.
Newhall, CA 91321
24346 Main St.
Newhall, CA
661.259.4781
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Santa Clarita City Council
23920 Valencia Blvd #120
Valencia, CA 91355
Subject: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Dear Santa Clarita City Council,
On behalf of Elevate Church, I am writing to express our strong support for the proposed mixed-use development at 24300 Main Street. As a local church that serves both the residents of Santa Clarita and visitors from beyond, we recognize the vital role Main Street plays in fostering community, commerce, and connection.
Main Street has long been a gathering place for people from all walks of life, and this development presents an incredible opportunity to enhance the vibrancy of our city. By introducing 78 new apartments and 5,300 square feet of retail space, this project will not only provide much-needed housing but also support local businesses and create a more dynamic, walkable neighborhood. Many of our church members and guests frequent Main Street for shopping, dining, and community events, and we believe this development will further strengthen the area’s appeal as a thriving hub for families, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
We
have already seen the positive impact of projects like Newhall Crossings in revitalizing Old Town Newhall. The increase in foot traffic and business activity has transformed the area into a more welcoming and lively destination. We are confident that this new project will continue that momentum, contributing to the economic growth and overall well-being of our community.
For these reasons, we wholeheartedly support this project and encourage its approval. Thank you for your time and commitment to the future of Santa Clarita.
Sincerely,
Mauricio Ruiz
Senior Pastor
www.elevatechurchscv.org
March 13, 2025
Santa Clarita City Council
23920 Valencia Blvd #120,
Valencia, CA 91355
Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I am writing to offer my full support for the mixed-use development project on 24300 Main Main Street in Newhall.
I moved here almost 3 years ago from Portland, Oregon, where I again and again saw the first-hand importance of these kinds of projects for burgeoning neighborhoods. The mix of residential and commercial will help to kick start development on the street by bringing in new residents and business owners and will help to act like a shot of adrenaline and help the overall vitality of the street.
As a business owner operating on Main Street, I feel the importance, and frankly, need for developments such as this one. While Main Street has seemingly come a long way, a project like this will help to keep and build the momentum. I’d love nothing more for our town to be a destination, where you can get out of the car or jump off the train and have an experience, something truly unique to Newhall. It’s projects such as this one, that will make that a reality.
Sincerely,
Michael Miller
Little Juniper
[email protected]
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
City of Santa Clarita Planning Commission
23920 Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 9135
Dear City of Santa Clarita Planning Commission,
On behalf of the Old Town Newhall Association (OTNA) Board of Directors, we are writing to express our support for the Proposed Mixed-Use Development on the Corner of Market St and Main St. OTNA’s mission is to restore, enhance and maintain historic Downtown Newhall as a social, cultural, and economic center for the Santa Clarita Valley and we believe this project aligns with our mission and the long-term vision for the area. Our Board of Directors is comprised of a wide range of individuals vested in the success of Old Town Newhall and support for the proposed development has been approved by the OTNA Board.
As a growing community, Newhall needs continued revitalization and development to sustain its economic momentum. The addition of 78 residential units and 5,300 square feet of retail space will bring more residents and businesses to Old Town Newhall, increasing foot traffic and driving economic growth. This will directly benefit existing businesses along Main Street by expanding their customer base while also providing opportunities for new businesses to establish themselves in the area. In addition to the residential and retail space, the project includes two levels of parking, which will address the area's need for adequate parking and improve the overall functionality of the development, making it more accessible for residents. Parking remains one of the most talked about concerns among the OTNA community, and this addition alone would be welcomed.
This development preserves the area's unique character and introduces modern conveniences, ensuring that new growth complements the existing community identity. The proposed mixed-use development defines an architectural style specific to Newhall, with its use of Western and
Victorian architectural themes. Drawing inspiration from the community's railroad, trading post, and Western movie history, the design incorporates carefully curated materials such as brick, cement plaster, wood siding, iron, and steel. This combination creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that celebrates the past while maintaining a modern architectural approach.
We have seen the positive impact of mixed-use projects such as Newhall Crossings, which has successfully introduced a variety of new businesses, restaurants, and retail establishments to the area. The increased residential presence has stimulated local commerce, making Newhall a more vibrant and self-sufficient community . W e anticipate similar benefits from this proposed development, further enhancing Newhall’s role as a thriving destination within Santa Clarita.
The
benefits to Old Town Newhall and Santa Clarita more broadly are significant. The Old Town Newhall
Association recommends your approval of this project, and we look forward to creating a lasting relationship between this project, the Old Town Newhall Association, and its members.
Respectfully
,
Old T
own Newhall Association Board
March 13, 2025
Dear City of Santa Clarita,
As a property and business owner, we would like to extend our support for the upcoming mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall.
We live and do business in this city for over 20+ years. We have seen Old Town Newhall from what it was before and what it is today. While maintaining and giving nod to the history of this town, the recent new developments have pushed the economic and footprint growth exponentially.
We see local talent of the entrepreneurial mindset be able to present their craft in the opening of new businesses. We see families come in groves to create memories by partaking in city ran events. We see couples walk hand in hand down Main St for date nights at the local eats. Main St is setting the stage for growth, community, and recreation. The stage mirrors that of live, work, play, and eat!
I was on a leisurely lunch break walk the other day and I ran into a business hoping to open at the end of March. The gentleman and I shared a conversation as I asked about his business. He beamed with pride. He was full of innovative ideas to bring more people to Main St by way of old school efforts and new school marketing. I walked away excited because he was excited.
It is not just a structure being built up. It is a build out for a city to be recognized for its talent, ideas, and vibrancy!
For these reasons, I fully support the mixed-use development project on Main Street. It promises to bring continued growth, vibrancy, and opportunities our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tammey Mai
Brandolino Group
Docusign Envelope ID: F4821711-FD4F-479E-BE4A-24BE461E113E
Wednesday March 12, 2025
RE: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Project at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I am writing to express my strong support for the upcoming mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall. I have been a resident of Santa Clarita for over 10 years, and it has been a wonderful place to raise my family and build lasting relationships within the community.
I am the owner of The Newhall Press Room, a wine bar and restaurant on Main Street. As such this project impacts the viability of our business and I am in full support.
As someone who has witnessed the growth of Santa Clarita, I firmly believe that continued development, especially in Newhall, is crucial for our city’s prosperity. Newhall has long been the heart of Santa Clarita, and projects like this one are essential to ensure that it continues to thrive and remain a central hub for our community.
This project excites me because of the growth it will bring to Newhall. The addition of 78 new apartment units will provide much-needed housing, while the 5,300 square feet of retail space will offer new businesses the chance to flourish in the area. With more businesses comes more opportunities for local jobs and services, which is something our community can greatly benefit from.
Having watched the success of Newhall Crossings firsthand, I’ve seen how revitalizing an area can create a stronger, more vibrant community. The increased foot traffic and business activity have not only enhanced the local economy but have also made the area more appealing to families and individuals seeking a welcoming neighborhood to live in.
For these reasons, I fully support the mixed-use development project on Main Street. It promises to bring continued growth, vibrancy, and opportunities to our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Troy Hooper
24257 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
[email protected]
720-570-6169
RE: Support for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Project at 24300 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321 Dear City of Santa Clarita Staff,
I am writing to express my strong support for the upcoming mixed-use development project on Main Street in Newhall. I have been a resident of Santa Clarita for almost 10 years and am raising my young kids here. It has been a wonderful place to start our family and build lasting relationships within the community.
I had the pleasure of working as a sales representative for a wine distribution company and developed relationships with business owners all over this valley. Main Street has been the ideal location for so many small businesses, restaurants and retail spaces alike in the time I have been here. When the opportunity recently presented itself to become one of those business owners ON Main Street, I jumped at the chance. We took over The Newhall Press Room, a wine bar and eatery on Main Street. Our business and this community rely on the growth and continued development of this historic area.
Projects like these impact the viability of our business and those around us and I am in full support.
As someone who has witnessed the growth of Santa Clarita, I firmly believe that continued development, especially in Newhall, is crucial for our city’s prosperity. Newhall has long been the heart of Santa Clarita, and projects like this one are essential to ensure that it continues to thrive and remain a central hub for our community.
This project excites me because of the growth it will bring to Newhall. The addition of 78 new apartment units will provide much-needed housing, while the 5,300 square feet of retail space will offer new businesses the chance to flourish in the area. With more businesses comes more opportunities for local jobs and services, which is something our community can greatly benefit from.
Having watched the success of Newhall Crossings firsthand, I’ve seen how revitalizing an area can create a stronger, more vibrant community. The increased foot traffic and business activity have not only enhanced the local economy but have also made the area more appealing to families and individuals seeking a welcoming neighborhood to live in.
For these reasons, I fully support the mixed-use development project on Main Street. It promises to bring continued growth, vibrancy, and opportunities to our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Kelly Thompson
24257 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
[email protected]
818-433-9098
3/17/25
Dear Patrick Leclair,
KHTS radio has been an integral part of our city for decades. We have been a lifeline to our community especially during �mes of calamity and crisis (earthquake, fires).
We are appealing to you to help us because we need your help.
As you know, plans are being presented to build a FIVE story mixed use complex with underground parking buted up against and affec�ng our KHTS radio sta�on located at 24320 Main Street. We ’ve hired specialty contractors, structural engineers, and sound experts to study what, if any, impacts will occur to our radio sta�on.
All agree, the impacts are draconian: there is no way for the radio sta�on to broadcast during construc�on. Not broadcas�ng will cripple our business.
Acous�c specialist, Brad Keeler of Progressive Design Inc. visited our radio studios on March 4, 2025. He also told us it is his professional opinion that the radio sta�on cannot broadcast from our studios while construc�on is taking place. In his opinion, there is no addi�onal soundproofing that can be added to prevent the noise from overwhelming KHTS broadcasts. I n o t h e r w o r d s , t h e r e i s n o w a y t o m i � g a t e construc�on noise to allow us to broadcast while the proposed project is being constructed.
We believe the proposed project could be beneficial for the improvement of Old Town Newhall. We are asking the Commission to consider two alterna�ve condi�ons of approval, mi�ga�on measures, that would allow us to stay in business, while allowing construc�on to take place.
Op�on #1: Create a moratorium on construc�on during the hours of Monday through Friday from 6am – 9am and Noon – 1pm to allow us to broadcast our most popular revenue genera�ng shows without interrup�on. We will try to work around building construc�on noise during all other hours.
Op�on #2: We will temporarily move our studios and offices. The developers and/or the city will pay for the cost of the temporary move from and then back to our current building. In addi�on, the developer and/or the city pays our rent at the new loca�on while we are displaced.
However, we’ve looked at ten loca�ons this past month. Only two are s�ll available.
One is SCV Rents, an old building on Soledad and the other, Celebrate Florist on Bouquet. Both are demanding 5-year leases and other restric�ons.
We will also have to remount our current satellite dish with a cherry picker together with a new pole to raise it once construc�on is completed.
We had numerous conversa�ons with Jason Tolleson trying to come up with solu�ons before approaching planning. He rejected all, including star�ng at 9am or moving us.
The City Council, in their last mee�ng, directed city staff to inves�gate if they could place the radio sta�on in temporary modules on city property during construc�on.
While we appreciate this sugges�on that we be moved into temporary modules, this does not appear to be feasible due to the nature of our broadcast business.
We found precedents for the city assis�ng local business es impacted b y development. We ask for similar help now. The city assisted Consumer’s Furniture in 2003, by contribu�ng $3 million dollars to move them across the street on Soledad Canyon Road to clear the way to build a bridge for The Cross Valley Connector. The Center Pointe developer donated land to accommodate the new loca�on for Consumer’s Furniture.
We know the developer has agreed to pay the Santa Clarita Historical Society $750,000.00. Why should we be treated differently?
In addi�on, The Santa Clarita Coali�on, non-profit, is headquartered in our building.
Its subsidiary, Santa Clarita Grocery, stores extra pallets of canned food at the back of our building, which they pick up on a daily basis for their food distribu�on to feed our valley’s residents who are faced with food insecuri�es.
We are concerned that the project, in its current form and proposed condi�ons , results in either a taking or damaging our property and business without fair and/or j u s t c o m p e n s a � o n . T h i s i s u n f a i r a n d n o w a y t o treat us given our significant contribu�ons and value to our city and community.
We believe our requests are reasonable and will not burden the proposed project with unreasonable condi�ons or mi�ga�on measures. We hope we can count on you.
I would like to talk on the purposed development of Market and Railroad.
The old masonic building has so much rich history that should be preserved.
The original rafter are the center piece the building and in perfect condition. As well as the origional wood floors.
Asking for the City to help along with the developer in moving the building to another city owned location in Newhall.
After inquiries to a few building moving companies with some proper planning the main structure can be moved for around 200K .
Or if the City would help with reallocation of the self help group The Rafters with over 500 members into another structure in Newhall. IE, Roger Dunn or Senior Center out building.
The Rafters Group has been an instrumental asset to the community for over 50 years.
Looking to continue the service for many years to come.
We ask for the time needed and the conversations with the City and the developer to benefit the City as a whole.
I have attached an letter for the history of the building from a SCV historian.
David Doyle
NEWHALL CA
661-373-6577
John Boston is the most prolific humorist/satirist in world history. He’s lived in Santa Clarita since the 1950. With more than 100 major journalism awards, he’s been recognized as one of America’s best newspaper columnists and editors. He’s also written books on SCV history, taught SCV history for 20 years and writes the Time Ranger column for The Signal newspaper, along with his Mr. SCV column. He sent this not as a representative of The Signal, but as his own viewpoint on the importance of saving from demolition, The Courthouse Building on Market Street in Newhall. We’d like to read this into the record of the council for the City of Santa Clarita…
There are few times in our lives when we get a chance to right a great wrong. The demolition of the historic Courthouse Building on Market Street in Downtown Newhall would be nothing short of a major sin on the soul of Santa Clarita. It is one of the last truly historic buildings in our valley.
In 1878, on its foundation was built the mercantile store by Walter S. Newhall, the son of town founder, Henry Mayo Newhall. It was an old-time Wild West Saloon for a while, then became this valley’s epicenter — the Hap-a-Lan Dance Hall — in 1920. That was more than a century ago. Big-time Los Angeles jazz and dance bands came here to play and the hall was used for everything from community meetings (to discuss cityhood) to bake sales, movies, lectures, school pageants and emergency relief stations. It served as morgue for victims of the 1928 Great St. Francis Dam Disaster. There was so much grief surrounding the storage of 70 corpses, people avoided the place for years.
In 1933, it would become our valley’s courthouse where trials small to great were heard. The 10- year-hearings for the estate of William S. Hart were held here, as was the trial for Richard John Jensen, the SCV’s only know serial killer. Prior to that, the Newhall Community Players would start the SCV’s first community theater there and after, the beginnings of the Canyon Theatre Guild would offer plays.
Today? The most-beneficial Alcoholics Anonymous 12-Step program holds daily meetings, helping thousands of the decades. Their meetings are on the top floor and is called The Rafters.
The same maple dance floor from the 1920s is still used upstairs, more than a century later.
Again? It would be a sin to destroy this building. I have a solution.
Put together public or public/private partnership. Buy the Courthouse Building. Use part of the building to house a new St. Francis Dam Disaster Museum that would include the rich history of the great cases that were tried here, its days as a SoCal jazz nightspot, its community theater days and the glorious times of serving our community. It would be THE major anchor of the revitalization of Downtown Newhall and a go-to destination for everyone from tourists to thousands of local students.
In my lifetime, we’ve lost not just actual physical historical buildings that should have been saved, but the memory of who we were as a community. When you rewrite, alter or forget a town’s identity, you lose part of not just its soul, but — your soul. We have a chance to teach, to immortilize, our Santa Clarita culture.
One thing about Santa Clarita? As historian and growing up here since the 1950s, I’ve learned and watched that our valley is a can-do community — 1876 or 2025. Generations have come and gone, but we’re still a people who roll up our sleeves and get the task done.
Let’s save The Courthouse Building.
Please accept this email as the outline for discussion points to be voiced by citizens and supporters of the "Rafters Group."
First and foremost, we want to emphasize, it is NOT our intention to stand in the way of progress, nor in any way impede the pending sale of the property located at 24307 Railroad Ave. Furthermore, it is important to know that most ALL our 500 plus Members who make up the registered non-profit 501c3 group known as “The Rafters,” who attend meetings at the subject building, are voting, tax-paying residents of the City of Santa Clarita. As such, we are excited to see the continued work being done on behalf of the City of Santa Clarita to continue with architectural improvements to Main Street and this area known as “Old Town Newhall.” We appreciate the hard work of the planning Commission and others in the spirit of progress, to provide an area that is considered a destination for entertainment, retail commerce, and home to more Citizens of the City of Santa Clarita.
For more than 50 years, the Men & Women who have quietly and peacefully met in the hall of the 2nd floor of the subject building, have done so in the spirit of anonymity, as one of the primary principals of our Group’s existence. For many of us, the act of publicly standing before our fellows to expose Our Membership is a decision, we don’t take lightly. However, we do so today to demonstrate our commitment to Our “Primary Purpose,” to help OTHERS. We felt it of paramount importance, to stand up and be heard to ensure the preservation of a room and building that has been the centerpiece of recovery in the Santa Clarita Valley for more than 50 years.
Although as we understand it, the City has not yet “officially” recognized the subject building as a “Historical” building, it is evident by several different motions and the listing of it on a list of sites “to be considered,” it is and should be. Construction of the subject building began in 1931, of what would be the Newhall Courthouse (1st floor) and Masonic Lodge (2nd floor) on the site where in the 1880’s, Joshua Newhall, relative of town Founder, Henry Mayo Newhall, built his general and dry goods store.
Later in 1914, the building was leased to William Mayhue. It's believed that the salvaged lumber from the “Mayhue Building,” was used in its construction of the building there now, including the wood floor on the 2nd floor, taken from the “Hap-A-Lan” Dance Hall, later known as “Houghton’s” Community Room & Dance Hall. In 1928 it was the biggest place in town that could accommodate the bodies that kept coming from the San Francisquito Canyon tragedy for identification. These are facts, easily uncovered by the magic of google, in articles that have appeared in SCVhistory.com.
Moreover, we hope to compel the Members of the City Council to consider negotiating for financial assistance from the new Owner and/or Developer of said building to divert or allocate funds that might be earmarked for some entity under the auspice of “Historical” preservation of Newhall’s past…. These monies, estimated to be as much as $750,000. should be used to move and re-purpose this building.
We ask, that the following recommendations are given every consideration as follows:
1. Allow the group known as “The Rafters Group,” to continue meeting in said location beyond June 30, rent free, provided ample liability insurance is purchased, until such time that a location and plan for the relocation of the “core” (original structure) building can be executed.
2. Negotiate the relocation of the building cost from a portion of the funds pledged by the Developer, to the City.
3. Identify a lot, either wholly owned by the city, or otherwise, nearby the existing site. a. 22900 Market St. the property where the former Senior Center was, to be granted to the City of Santa Clarita from the County of Los Angeles, as of July 1, in combination with the adjacent Hart Park property. Or;
b. An alternate location not yet identified…
David Doyle
NEWHALL CA
661-373-6577