From: Vanessa Grossman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 9:31 PM
Subject: Supporting Downtown Revitalization for a Bettter Santa Maria
*** EXTERNAL EMAIL: Please use caution when opening links or attachments. *** Hello,
I hope you are well! I am unable to make it to the Council meeting for the evening of 9/17/24 but wanted to share my letter in hopes that it can be read or considered - as I have met with Vernon twice now and wholeheartedly support moving forward with the Redevelopment of Santa Maria's Downtown area.
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Dear Staff,
I am writing to express my strong support for the redevelopment of our city’s downtown area, as I believe it holds immense potential for economic growth and community enrichment. Although I am unable to attend the council meeting, I want to emphasize my enthusiasm for this project and why I believe it will significantly benefit our city.
Downtown areas are the heart of any city, and our downtown has long needed revitalization. I firmly believe that by creating a more active and vibrant downtown, we can attract new residents, visitors, and businesses with deeper pockets, which will, in turn, generate substantial revenue for our city through taxes. The prospect of new shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and more will breathe new life into our downtown and offer residents a place to gather, shop, dine, and connect.
Unfortunately, there has been a lot of misinformation circulating about this project. I have personally brought these concerns to meetings with the Vernon Group and was provided with clear, factual information. It seems that our community simply needs to be better educated on what this redevelopment entails and the positive impact it will have.
Who wouldn’t want a bustling downtown area where residents can enjoy a shopping day out with friends, date nights with loved ones, and community events like the popular Downtown Fridays? This revitalization will create a dynamic environment that will not only offer a variety of activities but also foster a stronger sense of community.
The planned apartments are another key benefit of this project. Santa Maria is experiencing a severe housing shortage, and I have learned that many professionals from large corporations like Dignity, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and ATSU are eager to move here but are unable due to the lack of available housing. By providing these apartments, we will offer these professionals a place to call home in the heart of the city, which will drive more economic activity downtown.
While some have expressed concerns about the need for more family homes, this project does not conflict with that goal. The downtown area is not suitable for family homes (or backyards!), and this redevelopment will not use resources designated for building family residences. There is still ample opportunity for developers to pursue family home construction in more appropriate areas.
Others have argued that we need more entertainment options rather than additional housing. I don't think many realize that this project will include both: businesses and entertainment on the ground floors with apartments above. It's a mixed-use development that caters to both housing needs and the desire for more things to do.
Personally, I am excited to witness these positive changes. I believe that bringing more professionals into the downtown area will reduce crime, boost business, and create a vibrant atmosphere that will naturally attract further entertainment and amenities.
Parking is another concern I have heard, but the Vernon Group has assured that there will be ample parking solutions for residents, businesses, and visitors. Much like when we visit cities like San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara, we will have convenient parking options that encourage people to explore and enjoy what our downtown has to offer.
The Vernon Group’s commitment to investing millions of dollars into this project is a rare and valuable opportunity for Santa Maria. As a business owner (of two!), an active member of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, former Santa Maria Women’s Network President, and co-founder of both the Central Coast Event Network and Central Coast Connection Club, I urge the council to approve this project. Our city deserves a vibrant downtown that meets the needs of residents, attracts visitors, and stimulates economic growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Rae Grossman
All the best,
Vanessa Rae Grossman
Digital Marketing & Creative Coordinator
M:
[email protected]
www.vanessaraemedia.com
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