Dear Members of the Sebastopol City Council,
Thank you for reading my letter and considering my opinion.
This letter regards: Agenda-Item-Number-10-Calder-Creek-Concept-Review 2-1- 2021
Ives Park Calder Creek Naturalization Project –
Approval of Preferred Concept
https://ci.sebastopol.ca.us/getattachment/Meeting-Event/City-Council/2022/City-CouncilMeeting-February-1,-2022/Agenda-Item-Number-10-Calder-Creek-Concept-Review 2-1- 2021.pdf.aspx
Protect the legacy and character of Ives Park and Polley Field.
The legacy of Ives Park to generations of residents is as a multi-use recreational public asset. Within its limited size individuals and community groups enjoy Ives Park for what it is – a pocket refuge, a place of many uses that span the course of a day, a weekend, or seasonally throughout the year. It is a highly accessible and popular public open space. Its proximity to the cultural art center, local schools, places of worship, the public library, and downtown business enterprises highlights its function and value as a multi-use recreational resource. The whole of Ives Park is greater than its component pieces and should not be downplayed.
The restoration of Calder Creek is admirable and has merit. The schemes outlined in the three options reconfigure or eliminate features in the park.
Picturing how changes in Option 1 & Option 2 accommodate historic park uses requires time to absorb and consider. No doubt City Council will hear from constituents affected by these options. However, Option 3 is most concerning, it is obviously a stream course meander too far. I cannot help but sense hubris and insult behind the notion that Polley ball field, used for generations by locals young and old, should be eradicated. Restoration of degraded habitats is worthy and valuable. Preservation of public recreational facilities are also admirable and worthy. Preserve Polley Field as it currently exists. It is my experience public facilities once removed are rarely replaced.
I hope that the City Council does not select an Ives Park restoration scheme that would harm its character, be impractical, nor detract in benefit to our community.
Sincerely,
Paul Judge
Sebastopol