From: Gerald Lindberg
To: CityCouncilListPublic
Subject: [EXTERNAL] City Council meeting, Dec. 10 2024
Date: Monday, December 9, 2024 1:36:30 PM
Attachments: Beaver Ln - statement to City Council.docx Please see attachment.
To: Santa Rosa City Council – DEC. 10, 2024
My name is Gerald Lindberg. I would like to share my concerns about the road conditions on Beaver Lane which is in the JC neighborhood. I own a duplex rental property at 762 Beaver Street and it borders on Beaver Lane.
In the twenty years that I have owned the property, I have never seen any road maintenance. Potholes and broken asphalt, especially at the east end of the lane at King St., have been a constant problem, and when rains come, the east end is flooded. I have talked with a number of our neighbors along the lane and the understanding has been that Beaver Lane is NOT the City’s responsibility – that we just have to live with it.
Last February heavy rains came; the lane was a real mess. I had to do something, so I contacted City Councilperson Victoria Fleming who was great. She replied back very promtly and directed me to Dan Hennessey, Director of Transportation and Public Works. I emailed him about the situation and included photos of the conditions and I asked, “Was the City responsible for maintaining Beaver Lane or are the residents of the lane on their own in this? He replied:
“We can confirm for you that Beaver Lane (known as Alley #50) is City-maintained.
The City maintains improved alleys (those brought up to City standards by being paved), which this one is.”
Mr. Hennessey contacted Dave Avila, the asphalt supervisor, who then inspected the alley; he had a crew come out, fill potholes and clean up debris. But because nothing presented an immediate safety issue, nothing more was needed.
Fast forward: Last month, early November; I had not heard anything. I wrote Mr.
Hennessey again asking if he had any updates on repair plans. He replied saying that he would go take a look at the lane in the next few days. He went twice! Once prior to those big rains we had, and then again after the rains. He emailed me:
“I agree with you that the asphalt is in need of repair (especially the east end; I also agree with Dave Avila, that nothing presents an immediate safety issue.” He added, “I think it might be useful if you were to share your thoughts with the City Council.”
I am unable to attend the December 10 meeting. I’m grateful to be able to share my thoughts with you in written form. Beaver Lane is still in need. It matters very much to us that the lane is not neglected. It’s a matter of quality of life . And I think it can actually have an impact on property values. We know there are plenty of streets in Santa Rosa that need attention. We just want to underscore for you our own situation.
On behalf of the residents of Beaver Lane and myself as a property owner, thank you very much.