2/5/25, 1:20 PM
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Edwards St Signage
From Trinidad CA <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/3/2025 10:48 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Name: Jeff Bairey
Email: [email protected]
Message: Gabe - Here is the email I just sent to all the city council members. I do not know the proper protocols to have my email submitted to the city council for purposes of the upcoming city council meeting on Feb 11 where the Edwards St signage will be an agenda item, so here is another copy of the email. Please let me know if you have any questions. Jeff City Council Members - I live on Edwards and ask that the recently installed pedestrian signs on Edwards at Galindo and at Hector be removed as unnecessary and view obstructing. The over-designed signs were a mistake, paid for with “free” grant money from CalTrans, and now Trinidad can restore the damaged views by taking the signs down or replacing them with something acceptable. I attended the last city council meeting on January 14, at which many residents addressed the city council and asked that both the pedestrian and No Parking signs on Edwards be removed. No resident attended the meeting to ask that the signs be kept. You voted to remove the No Parking signs (thank you), and you decided to gather more input from the community on the pedestrian sign issue and address it further at the next city council meeting on February 11. Several factual details of the pedestrian sign issue on Edwards need to be acknowledged and highlighted at the next meeting: - Edwards St has never had an accident and has never been determined by a study or any person to be unsafe, with or without the signs. - California law provides roadway design immunity to public entities like Trinidad, and the city administrators will take the steps necessary to secure design immunity for Edwards St whether the signs are up or down. - Trinidad’s own Municipal Code goes out of its way to preserve and protect viewsheds, and the signs appear to violate more than one of the regulations, thereby exposing the city to lawsuits and litigation. - The CalTrans contract for the grant money used to install the signs does not say that the money must be paid back if the signs are taken down.
Someone from the city must explain CalTrans’ position on whether any money will have to be paid back, and if so, where it says this in the contract, whether CalTrans’ position has any merit, how much money CalTrans will want, and when. - Someone from the city administration must present alternative, compromise designs to show that (smaller) signage options are available and will lessen the negative impact on views while providing additional pedestrian signage. If engineer Josh Wolf is too locked into his own design and won’t recommend anything else to you, the city administrators have the duty to the residents to consult with another engineer, preferably a traffic engineer, who will help us reach an acceptable compromise. - Trinidad shouldn’t be taking legal advice on the signage issue from non-lawyers like engineer Wolf or CalTrans. The city’s attorney should explain the steps the city will take under Government Code 2/5/25, 1:20 PM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWYy…YtNDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQAFdRU3exSuxFqQS6cUKsSyI%3D Page 2 of 2 section 830.6 to secure design immunity for the design of Edwards St, with or without the signs. - The city needs to be a good neighbor to the residents, including those who live on the street and have to look at the signs every day. To reiterate, the 14’ tall, 8 square foot flashing orange signs are a mistake, and if it costs some money to correct the mistake and restore the views of Trinidad harbor and the ocean to the benefit of everyone, including the most impacted residents, then we should do it, and either take the signs down or replace them with something acceptable. Lastly, at the last city council meeting, one resident’s letter on the signage issue was given preferential treatment by being read aloud by a council member, while all the other letters and emails you received (including my January 8 email to you all) were not read aloud. It would be fairer for the city council to either read all the letters and emails received, or none of them. Respectfully, Jeff Bairey
2/10/25, 9:30 AM
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City Council Meeting February 11, 2025
From Kathy Bairey <[email protected]>
Date Sun 2/9/2025 7:33 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
This letter is written in response to the city council’s request for feedback regarding the installation of RRFB signage on Edwards Street at Hector and Galindo Streets. I live at 829 Edwards Street.
I have been a resident of Trinidad for less than 3 years, but the one thing I have heard over and over from friends and neighbors is that the primary focus of planning and improvements in the town is to preserve the town’s rural nature, scenic beauty, and most importantly, the view. Always the view, and rightly so! The citizens of Trinidad have a reasonable expectation that this would be the primary focus of the city council as well — we have rules that no one’s tree can be taller than 6 ft if it blocks a neighbor’s view, and ordinances limiting the size and placement of signs for preservation of our rural nature and always, to protect the views.
The council’s recent letter requesting input from residents makes note several times of the meetings where road striping and pedestrian improvements were considered. There is an implication, perhaps unintended, that if the citizens did not show up to the city council meeting when the pedestrian and road improvements were being discussed, they now have limited standing to object to the result. On the contrary, I think the residents of Trinidad had a reasonable expectation that the council would not act in a way that did not reflect the shared values of the town.
The 14-foot tall, 8 square feet, reflecting blaze yellow flashing signs (RRFDs) are in contravention of all the city’s rules and those shared values. I attended the last council meeting where the engineer showed “projections” — photoshopped pictures looking up Edwards St and not at the ocean — that were shown at an earlier meeting, and found them to be extremely unrepresentative of the actual impact of the signage in real life.
At the January meeting it seemed that the city council, having approved and installed signage with a huge negative impact on the view and the rural setting, was taking the position that it’s a done deal, and changing it might cost money, so we just have to live with it. On the contrary, I think the residents of Trinidad are quite right to question the council’s apparent abandonment of what seem to be city-wide shared ideals, especially now that we have seen how intrusive and garish the signs truly are. I understand that grant money was used, but why put in the biggest possible sign available to the detriment of those pristine views? Just because it was “free” doesn’t mean it was the correct answer.
Pedestrian safety is important, of course, but there are many less impactful options to achieve that goal that should be explored. Street striping, sidewalk jut-outs similar to the ones in front of the elementary school, short pylons reminding motorists of pedestrian right-of-way — all should be considered in lieu of the RRFDs.
Highway 101, with thousands of cars and semi-trucks every day, passes through the town of Hopland as a 3-lane road with multiple shops, restaurants, hotels, pedestrians and other distractions on either side. In the middle of town there is a pedestrian crossing marked with street striping and a 3 foot “yield to pedestrians” pylon. If that’s enough to safely cross Hwy 101, surely it would be sufficient for Hector and Galindo.
The RRFDs should be removed.
Respectfully,
Kathy Bairey
2/6/25, 7:13 PM
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Pickleball Court
From Maria C Bartlett <[email protected]>
Date Thu 2/6/2025 2:28 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
I am opposed to the pickle ball resurfacing at the tennis court. The negative effects of noise pollution in affected communities with outdoor pickleball have been well-documented. As someone with a bad startle reflex and who is highly sensitive to unexpected loud noise, I would hate it. I am often walking my dog past the tennis court. Please seriously consider those opposed to this project.
Thank you.
Maria Bartlett
828 Edwards St.
Trinidad
2/10/25, 9:33 AM
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safety improvements
From Maria C Bartlett <[email protected]>
Date Sat 2/8/2025 3:49 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Thank you for the request for input regarding the recent safety improvements in town. I would like to add my concerns for the intersection of West and Trinity streets. If I am driving west on West and approach the intersection I have NO visibility to my left, to the south. I feel like I take my life in my hands eeking and edging out of the intersection and a car heading north would not see me due to parked cars and trucks on the east side of Trinity Street. Intersection Daylighting is a recommendation by the National Association of City Transportation Officials that states there should be NO PARKING within 20-25 feet of an intersection. Curb extensions are also recommended.
Maria Bartlett
828 Edwards St.
Trinidad
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intersection_daylighting
2/11/25, 5:24 PM
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Pickleball
From Lynne Manget Conway <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/11/2025 1:10 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Dear Gabe and Anton,
Re tonight's meeting which I won't be able to attend:
Dan Chandler made almost all the points I was prepared to write. I totally agree with him. As for the noise issue which is huge, you also must factor in the player and crowd noise. Tennis etiquette requires QUIET. Pickleball players pay no attention to tennis etiquette. They are noisy on and off the court. So the decibel level is much higher. When we tried to work with them a few years ago they were loud to the point of rudeness while waiting for the court. They shout a lot while playing. We lost a whole season of tennis trying to work with them. I would hate to see that happen again. The sport of tennis and activity of. pickleball just don't mix.
Thank you, Lynne Manget Conway
707 677 3751
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
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2/11/25, 5:27 PM
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Pickleball
From Daniel Chandler <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/11/2025 11:41 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Cc Lynne Manget Conway <[email protected]>; Jim Stephenson <[email protected]> Hi Gabe,
I see pickleball is on the agenda in the context of an upgrade to the courts.
I am not able to to attend the meeting but would appreciate it if you can convey this message to the Council members.
***
When pickleball was last on the agenda I attended and made several points which I would like to elaborate on a little. They stem mostly from my experience of sometimes playing on the dual use court at Larson Park in Arcata and also playing on adjacent tennis courts and hearing the noise of the pickleball court.
Although some tennis courts have been converted to be dual use, tennis and pickleball on the same court present problems. When given the option pickleballers prefer dedicated courts as do tennis players. What are some of the problems?
The main concern is that the courts are of completely different size, which necessitates painting many additional line on the tennis court. This can be confusing to both pickleball and tennis players. It can be minimized as it is at Larson Park in Arcata by the color of the pickleball lines. I urge you to actually look at the court that is dual use at Larson and if you proceed with the pickleball be sure the Trinidad Court minimizes confusion.
A second problem is that the nets are completely different. So pickleballers will need to bring their own nets, or the City will need to supply them.
If courts are located in a park, noise is not particularly a problem. At Trinidad it could be.
The issue is not just the overall decibel level but the fact that a plastic ball is hitting a wood or fiberglass racquet. (Tennis is a rubber ball hitting nylon strings). So it is a recurrence of “thwacks”, not the sort of buzz that a loud restaurant has. Again I urge Council members to attend a pickleball session and hear for yourselves. At Larson you could hear both tennis and pickleball at the same time to compare. If, as the City Manager said at the last meeting, it is possible to get quieter racquets and balls then it would be good to make that a requirement.
It appears there is no possibility of putting the pickleball court elsewhere, by replacing the 2/11/25, 5:27 PM
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Overall it is clear that pickleball is popular, and so public arrangements for it will be necessary. I hope you manage the dual use without making the tennis court (where I have played regularly since 2000) less playable or unplayable and without creating a sound nuisance for neighbors or concerts or other quiet events held at the City Hall auditorium.
Thank you for considering these issues.
Daniel Chandler
436 Old Wagon Road
Trinidad, CA 95570
[email protected]
Phone: 707 677 3359
February 4, 2025
RE: Crosswalk Signs and Flashing Lights
Dear Trinidad City Council_
I support the removal of the crosswalk signs and flashing lights on Edwards/Hector and Edwards/Galindo.
I served on the City Council for 7 years. During my time on the Council I often questioned the reasonableness of big city solutions being applied to a town that likes to call itself a “Village”.
Numerous projects have come to the City over the years that caused me to question the motivation behind such projects. I came to the realization that the projects were wonderful for the independent consultants (planning and engineering) but maybe did not leave the citizens of Trinidad with that same warm fuzzy feeling that the planning and engineering firms were left with when the Christmas bonuses came around. In the past, the residents and the Council working together were able to fight off some of the projects which would have ruined the “Coastal Village” vibe. Grant monies can be very beneficial, but using grant monies to create unnecessary projects because we can makes zero sense. The continued addition of signs, double lines, and (from what I have heard through the grapevine) possibly physical barriers on Edwards Street is very concerning.
Please consider the arguments before you tonight against the big city solutions to small town problems. Do we really need four sets of flashing lights throughout our “Village” within a half-mile span? Personally, I don’t think we do.
Thank you for your consideration,
Tom Davies
Trinidad Resident
Former Councilmember
February 4, 2025
RE: Pickleball Court
Dear Trinidad City CouncilI disagree with the plans to mark the tennis court with Pickleball boundaries. I’m sure the game of Pickleball is fun, but I do not think it is prudent for Trinidad to mark Pickleball lines on its already existing tennis court. The information given in the recent notice to residents states a decibel level higher than normal conversation at 100 feet. Given the close proximity of the court to residences this seems like an unreasonable noise to ask residents to tolerate. The nature of Pickleball noise is sharp, unnatural, and creates an uncomfortable auditory experience for those subjected. As you may well be aware of, numerous cities are now dealing with lawsuits and noise complaints from residents as a result of the obnoxious noise created when the plastic pickleball is struck by wooden paddles and bouncing off the concrete surface. The game is fairly fast paced so the sharp cracking noise occurs quite frequently.
Please be considerate of the residents that live in close proximity to the tennis courts and find a better use for the $65,000, repairing the Van Wycke Trail comes to mind. Town Hall already generates enough amplified sound late into the night. The incessant cracking noise of Pickleball does not need to be heard during the day.
Thank you for your consideration,
Tom Davies
Trinidad Resident
Former Councilmember
2/6/25, 7:00 PM
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Crosswalk signs on Edwards Street
From Trinidad CA <[email protected]>
Date Thu 2/6/2025 11:19 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Name: Deborah Frame
Email: [email protected]
Message: Hi Gabe! Kati Breckenridge has asked me to send you the letter she read for me at the City Council meeting on 01/14/25. I wasn't sure how to forward it to you, so I've copied it below.
Thanks! Deborah Frame ***** Hello, My name is Deborah Frame and I live on Underwood Drive.
One of my neighbors has kindly advised me that she intends to express her dislike of the six new crosswalk signs on Edwards Street at tonight's meeting. I, however, have a different opinion of the signs and would like to share it with you to see if we can find a solution that works for everyone. Apparently, some (or all) of the new signs are disruptive to certain viewsheds, and I am entirely sympathetic to that. We live in an exquisitely beautiful area that shouldn't be tarnished with a lot of unnecessary signage. Having said that, I do believe these signs are an excellent safety measure for a road that sees a lot of traffic, from both residents and tourists, travelling to and from the beach, the harbor, the restaurant, the Marine Lab, trails, and homes.
The signs give drivers a heads up that there's a crosswalk ahead and they should be watchful for pedestrians. I appreciate this, both as a pedestrian and as a driver. My personal experience with the signs is that I have not found them to be objectionable at all. On the contrary, I was really happy when they went in. They make me feel much safer when I'm crossing the street while walking my dog. I am 100% deaf and have a significant balance impairment due to surgical removal of my acoustic and vestibular nerves. I cannot hear oncoming traffic and I am unable to cross the street quickly. If these signs alert drivers to my presence, HALLELUJAH! I need all the help I can get! Although my disabilities are somewhat unique, I think there are a number of seniors and families with young children in our community who might appreciate the signs for the same reason. I'm wondering if lowering the signs will make them less intrusive to the viewsheds, or if there is a different kind of signage that is less obtrusive but still effective. I like having the signs where they are for safety reasons. However, I can appreciate other residents' desires to maintain beautiful, unobstructed views from their homes. I've met so many intelligent, creative people in this town, I'm hopeful that we can find a way to maintain views while maximizing safety. Thank you! Sincerely, Deborah Frame 770 Underwood Drive Trinidad, CA 95570
2/10/25, 9:16 AM
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City Council meeting on 02/11/25; crosswalk signs on Edwards St.
From Trinidad CA <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/10/2025 8:51 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Name: Deborah Frame
Email: [email protected]
Message: Hi Gabe! I've had further dialog with one of my neighbors who is opposed to the new crosswalk signs on Edwards St., and for the record, I'd like to submit some additional comments ahead of the next meeting on 02/11/25. The reason I didn't come to the last meeting is that it's very difficult for me to follow the discussion in that type of setting. I know some sign language, but I am not fluent, so having an interpreter there would probably not be useful. I do have an app on my phone that captions speech, and it's helpful in a one-on-one situation; but it does not perform well in a group setting. Because the discussion on this topic has become so contentious, I feel I should probably figure out how to make future comments in person (so someone else doesn't have to do the dirty work for me!). However, I am currently recovering from the flu and prone to fits of coughing. Considering my minority approval of the crosswalk signs on Edwards, I am probably not very popular with this crowd. If I come in there coughing around everyone, they might run me out of town! I will not be there for the meeting tomorrow, so please handle these comments in whatever way you feel is appropriate. It doesn't matter to me, one way or the other, whether they are read at the meeting. Without further ado, here are my comments: It has been mentioned that in a city as small as ours, there is statistically a low likelihood of pedestrian/vehicle accidents. But that's just the nature of statistics. The smaller the sample size, the lower the probability of getting statistically significant results. To extend this line of thought, I suspect we also have a lower incidence of burglaries. Does that mean we don't need to lock our doors? To the victim of an accident or burglary, it doesn't matter if it's never happened here before; their life has been turned upside down. It has also been mentioned that the "real" dangers to pedestrians are people who are speeding or inebriated, and that management of those drivers is the responsibility of law enforcement. To my knowledge, Trinidad doesn't have its own dedicated police department. I do see cars from the County Sheriff's Department patrolling through town, but I don't know how often they're here. I think distracted drivers and drivers in unfamiliar territory (such as tourists) are also a significant factor, and those things may not be obvious until an accident occurs, even if police are present. My feeling is that I'd prefer to avoid an accident than deal with the aftermath of one. I think the Town of Trinidad has done an excellent job with the recent road improvements. The newly painted lines are great. The speed bumps are effective and I like the lines that warn in advance of the bump. And, as you know, I like the new crosswalk signs - a lot! Thank you for your efforts to keep us all safe! I feel blessed to live in the Town of Trinidad, and I genuinely like all of my neighbors (even the ones who don't agree with me on the crosswalk 2/10/25, 9:16 AM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWY…NDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQAPfUntIkxK9DhZu4S%2BxDdAw%3D Page 2 of 2 signs!). I do not want to go to war with anyone over this. If I am the only person who likes the new crosswalk signs, I can accept that I am in the minority and will not put up a fight if you decide to remove them. I do, truly, understand the desire to have unobstructed views of the ocean to the greatest extent possible. I would ask that you keep the crosswalk signs at the corner of Main St. and View (Murphy's Market corner) - hopefully there haven't been any complaints about those. I use that crosswalk almost daily, and I have noticed a SIGNIFICANT difference in drivers' behavior since the signs with blinking lights went in. Before the new signs, I waited for all cars to pass before I entered the crosswalk. I never knew when drivers were going to stop. Some drivers drove right up to the crosswalk and stopped, and other drivers sailed on through without slowing down. And at night, I never knew if they even saw me. I felt safer just letting everyone pass before I entered the crosswalk; sometimes that took several minutes. As mentioned in my previous letter, I have balance issues and am not always able to move quickly. I'm never certain whether I'll make it completely across the crosswalk before approaching cars get there. Since the new signs went in, I push the button to start the lights flashing when cars are still a fair distance away (like just coming off the freeway or turning onto Main St. from Trinity). I also push the button even if there are no cars around, as they sometimes turn onto the street while I'm in the crosswalk. Once the drivers see the lights flashing, they stop WELL IN ADVANCE of reaching the crosswalk. I feel so much safer entering the crosswalk now! I know the flashing lights are effective in getting drivers' attention. Thanks, Gabe, for your help! Sincerely, Deborah Frame
2/10/25, 9:32 AM
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Pickleball
From Paulandmichelle Hasselquist <[email protected]> Date Sun 2/9/2025 11:18 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Sent from my iPhone
We support the pickleball court. We have been playing for 20 years. It’s about time it comes to our town.
Thanks, Paul and Michelle Hasselquist
2/10/25, 9:34 AM
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Letter to council
From Trinidad Retreats~Vacation Rentals on the Redwood Coast <[email protected]> Date Sat 2/8/2025 11:01 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Dear Council Members,
I LOVE playing pickleball and do NOT want to see this progressive project halted because the complainers are louder than the supporters. Pickleball is great for everyone, especially older folks who find tennis a bit too much on their bodies. It is also a great sport for our youth and with Trinidad school right across the street this offers our local kids a new after school recreation opportunity. There is a very small group of local people who have been using the tennis court for decades. The time has come for change as pickleball has become one of the fastest growing sports and has been a great social opportunity for everyone. It is a great community sport since ALL are welcome to play and players show up and rotate into games. In our isolated town any and all community activities should be welcome. The noise of having a school across the street with kids outside playing loudly at recess and lunch isn't a concern nor should pickleball be an issue. The people that would be most affected by the noise would be the city staff, Beachcomber cafe and the volunteer fire department who I believe are all in closest proximity to the court. The courts are not lit so it will not disturb residents in the evening. The court can very easily be shared and times for pickleball can be limited to certain hours of the day. I propose the city of Trinidad craft an equitable schedule of times 7 days a week that can be posted for when tennis vs. pickleball can be played. Save the early morning hours for tennis since it doesn't create as much noise. I suggest the court be open for use between 8 am - 6 pm in the Fall/Winter and until 8 pm in the Spring/Summer with alternating use every 2 hours beginning with tennis.
During the Fall/Winter season -
Tennis 8 am - 10 am, noon - 2 pm & 4 - 6 pm
Pickleball 10 am - noon & 2 - 4 pm
During daylight savings Spring/Summer season -
Tennis 8 am - 10 am, noon - 2 pm, 4 - 6 pm
Pickleball 10 am - noon, 2 - 4 pm and 6 - 8 pm
As a side note I would like to mention that years ago when the Saunders Park was being constructed it was decided that a bocce ball court be installed. In all my years living in Trinidad I can say I have NEVER seen a group playing bocce ball. This seems like it was a poor decision and use of space. I am unsure if this space could be 2/10/25, 9:34 AM
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I appreciate your consideration,
Jonna Kitchen
Owner of 56 Berry Rd. and Trinidad Retreats
February 3, 2025
To: Trinidad City Council Public Comments
Re: Edwards Street Safety Improvements-Hector and Galindo Street From: Kathleen Lake
It has come to my attention, through an “after the fact” communication from the City Manager that the signs on Edwards will be discussed at the next CC meeting. After the fact, because I was not aware until after the installation of these signs and others, that this was a plan. I can not always attend meetings, however, I do make a point of participating in public meetings and understanding the decisions made in town to the best of my ability. It can be a daunting task in Trinidad where public input has not always been welcomed, and notice of meetings and issues are not communicated clearly.
I am writing to state that these signs on Hector and Edwards do not belong on the streets of Trinidad, they are entirely over engineered for the population. The design did not consider the General Plan, the new updated Circulation Element. These signs are also not mentioned in the list of Annual City Projects and Priorities. Where did they come from? How did they get here? Many past meeting minute notes from the Planning Commissioners clearly state that Edwards is NOT a pedestrian option in lieu of the Van Wyck Trail. Both the Planning Commissioners as well as many public comments clearly state this in the records. How did this project move forward from Planning with this response? I have no idea, but I do know that the City Planner however did clearly have her opinion and pushed for years stating that this was going to be a project. And then it was done?
Why has the city failed to provide the public with reasonable information as to the design of this project? The City website is unreliable and continues to be difficult to manage as a way to find current information. City postings of public meetings are sometimes emailed to us, and sometimes not. Sometimes staff are in the office that can answer our questions, but mostly not. Documents like the General Plan are not available at the library or any public setting to review by the public. Last I heard you could “make an appointment” during a 10-2 weekday time period based on staff availability to review the LCP? In addition the city frequently uses “Special Meetings” held with 24 hour notice, where few public members even know that something important is being discussed. For example the 4/8/2021 Special Planning Commission meeting where the Circulation Elements for the LCP was discussed with Coastal Commission comments. This is one place where the public might access the updates that might be considered. Comments from the commissioners at that meeting included recommendations of needing an “executive summary for accessibility to the public”, "Increase public participation”, “develop a schedule for the public for when GP meetings would be held”, and “serious lack of public outreach”. There is a recognizable and long standing problem of a lack of information to the public and in general lack of communication from city staff.
There do not appear to be any Planning Commission meetings where the design was presented at all. In the General Plan there is no mention of this project. Where did all of these meetings referenced in the letter take place? How was the public notified? I have found vague mentions of the pedestrian safety ideas that the City Planner had in mind, with comments from the Commissioners, Council and the public that more information was needed.
10/10/23: in the staff report it is stated that “crosswalks will be installed with HISP funds” in reference to the Van Wycke Trail. However, no design of these signs for the cross walks were provided and certainly no information regarding the high flashing signs was mentioned.
-4/9/24: Strong recommendations for this issue to be a high priority and for the CC to work with the public, (Van Wycke Trail and Edwards discussion). -4/17/24 Planning Commission- notes state that Commissioners had the “need for more public comments and input, needs to be more public feedback, Edwards is not an acceptable alternative (for pedestrians).
The letter provided by the City Manager mentions the City’s Local Road Safety Plan.
I’ve never heard of that plan, or seen it, or heard it referenced prior to this letter. The City Council has not provided the public with the information needed to understand why the signs were needed, what data was considered, what other options were provided, or if Coastal Development Permits were needed. These signs do not follow the General Plan or the DRAFT Circulation Element. Given that auto truck traffic is mainly centered on Edwards no pedestrians want to walk on Edwards. And, the General Plan clearly states the “preservation of traffic flow design will…retain the character of the small town atmosphere”. These signs appear to be in direct violation of the General Plan as they are clearly not needed or designed with consideration of the General Plan.
City Council Meeting 10/8/24: agendized options of Ocean and a time and place for public input. Why not for Edwards? Were there any photos provided to the public at any time of the sign that was removed? The NO COASTAL ACCESS sign that was removed about 10 days ago? The NO COASTAL ACCESS sign at the intersection of Van Wycke.
It was a mistake!? As per the City Manager and the City Planner it was removed because it was a “miscommunication.” A mistake? Really? Taxpayers paid someone to design where the sign would go and what it would communicate, and then paid someone to order the sign and the sign post, and then paid someone to install the sign? All without a CDP? And without any public meeting? And then, when called out on it, the city claims it was a mistake? This is not a public process. And the crosswalk signs are also a mistake and they should most definitely be removed.
Leveraging the Van Wycke Trail as a reason for these new signs is wrong. The Van Wycke trail is the best pedestrian option. Fix the trail, with the minimally impacting repairs. Not an over engineered high dollar grant. Let the trucks roar up and down Edwards without pedestrians smelling, hearing and seeing that route as an option to the Van Wycke Trail.
Thank you,
Kathleen Lake
February 4, 2025
To: Trinidad City Council
Re: Pickleball Court Grant Project
From: Kathleen Lake
Trinidad City Council,
Vote no to a Pickleball Court. How many residents would be exposed to this ongoing noise weekdays, weekends and holidays without reprieve? For those of us who live in close proximity to the tennis courts this is a horrible idea! Lawsuits abound all over California regarding the noise from Pickleball and how its noise is much different from tennis, which by the way can also be problematic in close proximity to residential homes.
There are plenty of other locations for out of towners or residents of Trinidad to find a Pickleball court. Trinidad’s close proximity to residents who already need to endure noise from the Town Hall, and Short Term Rentals, as well as amplified music from a variety of locations. We do not need to endure this noise. The City also does not need to risk additional potential lawsuits in this endeavor. Let me listen to the ocean. Here are some current articles that show the problems to residents in close proximity. With this information the City must not knowingly subject residents to this noise. “The noise has prevented plaintiffs from reading in peace, having conversations with guests, resting during the day, sitting or walking in their gardens, having holiday or social daytime gatherings and performing professional work in the home, such as phone calls and video conferences,” the complaint reads.
https://www.newportthisweek.com/articles/hearing-set-in-newport-pickleball-lawsuit/ “He explained that pickleball noise can be irritating for neighbors because of its “impulsive” nature. In lay terms, that means it’s a sharp sound that can pierce even high levels of ambient noise.”
“The best way to mitigate the sound of a pickleball court, according to Willis, is to start thinking about noise abatement before the court is constructed. The firm’s research suggests noise mitigation measures — such as lowering the courts several feet into the ground and constructing sound barriers — are needed for most courts within 350 feet of homes. Extensive sound mitigation is often required for homes within 150 feet, and the firm discourages courts within 100 feet of residences.
https://www.kpbs.org/news/quality-of-life/2023/09/05/homeowners-are-increasingly-ta king-legal-action-over-pickleball-noise
Not only was the noise above the recommended level, but if one tried to put up a sound-absorbent wall, it would need to be at least 17 feet high, according to the engineer.
https://www.circlingthenews.com/city-going-broke-because-of-lawsuits-and-settlemen ts-pickleball-noise-next/
Fauth explained that the noise “comes through the windows and walls” of his home and forces his family to “play loud music, wear noise-canceling headphones, close windows (or) leave our home to go elsewhere when we just can’t take it anymore.” One resident took the Sea Cliff Homeowners Association to court after years of back-and-forth mediation that never reached a compromise, according to KPBS. https://nypost.com/2023/10/20/pickleball-creates-headaches-lawsuits/ Thank you for your letter notifying us that this was going to be considered by the City Council.
Kathleen Lake
2/5/25, 12:42 PM
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Fwd: Public Participation in Water resiliency planning
From paula levine <[email protected]>
Date Tue 1/21/2025 3:47 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>; Anita <[email protected]>; Citymanager Trinidad <[email protected]>
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: paula levine <[email protected]>
Date: Mon, Jan 20, 2025 at 9:24PM
Subject: Public Participation in Water resiliency planning To: patti fleschner <[email protected]>, paula levine <[email protected]> Gabe or Anton,
Please forward this email to CC members, WAC members and post in public comments.
Thanks
Hello all,
Everyone wants clean sustainable water and reliable fire hydrants in case of fire. How can the City Administration encourage public participation and educate the community about Trinidad's water options?
The Trinidad community became politically polarized in the past about water options. There was confusion about which contradictory opinions to believe. Going forward, the community will be best served by seeking accurate information about:
Luffenholtz compared to HBMWD:
1. water resiliency
2. drought resiliency
3. firefighting capability
4. grants to offset initial infrastructure costs
5. water bills
6. Impact on development and property values
Public Outreach Action:
A series of public outreach educational presentations given at town hall, hopefully recorded by Access Humboldt. The format and logistics of the town hall meetings to be determined (Katie would be an excellent moderator. She campaigned for her CC seat on her experience and ability to bring people of opposing viewpoints together).
2/5/25, 12:42 PM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWYyYjYtNDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQADeIZT0Y7kRBlUFjfZP1RWg%3D Page 2 of 4 John Friedenbach and Sheri Woo offered to attend our next WAC meeting in response to a letter sent 1/6/2025 by Dwight Miller and Paula Levine (see letters below). .
Since WAC meetings are poorly attended, how about Mayor Kelly respond to John by asking if he and Sheri would be willing to give a presentation about HBMWD and answer questions posed by the public (including City administrators and employees).
This can be the first in a series of town hall meetings, perhaps held every other month. The meetings could be advertised by notes attached to water bills, posters around town,etc.
Experts on the Luffenholtz system may give a presentation on the Luffenholtz plant and answer questions at another town hall meeting.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------
Letters to and from HBMWD:
The first sentence of the letter is based on the draft of WAC's March 5th meeting, 2024... their last meeting?!... p.5 of 5, paragraph 4:
"Kelly voiced some frustration with not knowing what would develop in 2021" ( obviously a typographical error...
although we sometimes seem to be moving backwards)...
"The Committee agreed to consider connecting to HBMWD and would like more information."
Sheri Woo, Board Member, Division 2, HBMWD
[email protected]
Dear Ms. Woo, and HBMWD General Managers John Friedenbach (retiring) and Michiko Mares,
The Trinidad Water Advisory Committee [WAC], including Mayor Cheryl Kelly, has agreed to consider the merits of connecting to HBMWD, and would like more information.
Years ago, the Trinidad City Council was under a great deal of pressure to either pursue a feasibility study for connecting to HBMWD or pursue independent development of our Luffenholtz Creek watershed and water plant. The City Council chose Luffenholtz by a vote of 3 to 2. One of the 3 was a swing . The composition of the City Council has changed.
Development of the Luffenholtz system has not gone well in the past few years (to say the least).
None of our City Councilors or WAC members have any expertise in engineering or running a water plant.
While the CC agreed over three years ago to reconsider HBMWD in 3-5 years and WAC affirms its intent to move forward, we are challenged by the nuts and bolts of how to go about gathering 2/5/25, 12:42 PM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWYyYjYtNDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQADeIZT0Y7kRBlUFjfZP1RWg%3D Page 3 of 4 the appropriate information to have an informed and intelligent debate amongst ourselves and with the public about our options at this point.
Given the vast experience of your staff regarding local watersheds, engineering, working with neighboring communities, and with the California Water Board, might you be able to guide us in educating ourselves and the public on moving forward on a sustainable and cost-effective solution? What decisions do you need from our City Council (CC) to enable deeper investigation of linking with HBMWD? (We tried this 3 years ago ... see above).
If there is a cost in obtaining information from your engineers, could you please specify the information that will be obtained from any report that your engineers will provide? Part of the log jam that occurred a few years ago at the CC was due to the lack of clarity of HBMWD's proposal of a feasibility report, what information it would provide, and how much it would cost.
Thank you and Happy New Year!
Dwight Miller, member of the Trinidad WAC, 10-year former city councilor, 2-year former mayor
Paula Levine, motivated water customer of the Trinidad Water Department ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------
John Friedenbach responded:
Hi Dwight,
We discussed your email at our board meeting last Thursday. The directors asked that Sheri Woo and I attend your next Water Advisory Committee meeting. Can you please let us know when and where that will be?
Thank you,
John Friedenbach
General Manager
707-443-5018 office
707-362-7509 c
________________________________________________________________ Advertising Suggestion for CC Action Agenda:
2/5/25, 12:42 PM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWYyYjYtNDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQADeIZT0Y7kRBlUFjfZP1RWg%3D Page 4 of 4 Posters:
Are you interested in a resilient water supply for Trinidad? Do you question the impact and feasibility of obtaining water from HBMWD? Do you have any questions about Trinidad's Luffenholtz water plant? Send your questions to the Trinidad city clerk:
[email protected] or drop off a written
question at City Hall.
We are planning a series of Town Hall meetings to inform the public about the pros and cons of all of Trinidad's water options
______________________________________________________________________ Thank you for your public service,
Paula Levine
34 year Trinidad water customer
Virus-free.www.avast.com
Subject: Edwards Steet signage
Feb 11, 2025 City Council Meeting
Dear City Councilmembers
I am a resident on Edwards street. I write, not so much as to protest the new stop signs ( though they are ugly),as to express my concerns about the way in which this issue has been presented to the council.
First, as to Notice, any notice must be adequate to alert persons of a potential issue. At the last meeting the engineer presented a photo display which he claimed showed that the signs weren’t a visual problem. Simultaneously, using a mockup of the visual impact that was presented when the project was approved, he claimed that the residents should have been aware of the potential visual impact prior to the signs being installed. Respectfully, one can’t claim that the signs present no impact and yet also claim that the residents should have known of the impact.
Which is it? It can’t be both.
Second, the City attorney claimed that, while the signage appeared to violate City ordinance, there was an exception for signage by the City. I will presume that is true. But the purpose of the ordinances is to assure that the residents are good neighbors and respect each others’ viewsheds.
Leaving aside whether the signs violate City ordinance, one would assume that the City wants to be a good neighbor as well.
Third, there has been a claim that, if the signs are removed or modified, that the City will have to reimburse the state. That is not what the contract with the State says. Further, are is the State claiming that the signs can never be removed or altered? Are we stuck with them forever even if there is a safer alternative? Caltrans has an army of lawyers yet we have not had any weigh in on this issue. I did attempt to contact the local Caltrans representative to find out its position and was told he did not accept calls from the public. So much for transparency.
Fourth,there has been a claim that, if the signs are removed, this will create a dangerous condition. Respectfully, there is no accident history to support that claim. There is presently at least one crosswalk in town that doesn’t have such signage yet no one contends it presents a dangerous condition. I recently drove from here to Redding and did not note one crosswalk with the lighting of the offending signs.
Finally, there may be an argument that the existing signs are marginally safer than the prior crosswalks. If the council decides that the additional potential safety is worth the visual impact so be it. But I am concerned that the arguments in favor of the signage have been somewhat less than candid.
Respectfully,
W. Timothy Needham
2/5/25, 11:37 AM
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Traffic signs, city council meeting February 11, 2025
From Susan Needham <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 8:07 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Dear city council,
My name is Susan needham. I reside at 833 Edwards street.
After reviewing the letter presented by Ana Davis at the last council meeting, I find that she has succinctly expressed all of my concerns regarding the newly constructed crosswalk signage.
I have a couple of points that I would like to add and they are as follows:
I had been made aware some years back that the city wanted to use the CalTrans money from the Van Wyck trail refurbishment project to put in a crosswalk at Hector street, but I had no idea how visually obtrusive they would be.
The before and after photos presented by the project's engineer clarified ,for me, how visually obtrusive they are and how much they have altered the flavor and allure of our beautiful little fishing village.
The hector street signs bisect the most iconic view in town. They're quite a sore replacement for the beautiful little lighthouse we not so long ago lost.
These large, imposing signs with flashing lights would be much more appropriate on a dangerous mountain pass or on a major crossing in a large city.
In my experience, whether it be home construction or city planning, mistakes are bound to happen and they then need to be rectified even if it incurs additional costs.
It is not a waste of money to preserve the most important aspect of Trinidad- its scenic beauty and quaint charm.
I also want to thank you for taking down the redundant no parking signs and for not stenciling the red no parking curbs with more lettering. That did a lot towards “dejunking " Edwards street and the residents here are appreciative.
I would very much NOT like to watch Trinidad turn into another Monterey or fisherman's wharf. Areas such as these became beloved precisely because of their startling natural beauty and have now become adulterated with wall to wall saltwater taffy shops and two dollar Tshirts. What a shame it would be to see Trinidad follow suit.
Thank you,
Susan Needham
Sent from my iPad
2/10/25, 9:18 AM
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(No subject)
From Jennifer Pierce <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/10/2025 7:06 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Dear City of Trinidad,
We would like to request you do not disband the W.A.C.. It's very important to have continued planning and discussion about providing water for Trinidad area residents. Our names are Jennifer and Andrew Pierce, and we live at 469 Mill Creek Lane in Trinidad. We have applied for a water hookup and have paid for the application. We have wanted to be customers for 20 years and continue to hope to be Trinidad water customers in future. Please make sure your area residents have a voice in future and do Not vote to disband the W.A.C.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jennifer & Andrew Pierce
February 10, 2025
2/10/25, 9:35 AM
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Flashing Pedestrian Signs
From Pete Alcorn <[email protected]>
Date Sat 2/8/2025 2:58 AM
To Citymanager Trinidad <[email protected]>; Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>; Ckelly Trinidad <[email protected]>
Cc Beth Sarwar <[email protected]>
Dear Trinidad,
The crosswalk signs that have been installed on Edwards Street should be taken down.
First, the garish and blinking crossing signs disrupt the pristine view of a protected coastline in a way that is adequately accomplished with the painted crosswalks.
Second, to our knowledge no cause or need was demonstrated with actual data. Ugly signs were installed without a study.
And third, the harbor hosts a fishing and crabbing industry that involves big-rig traffic rolling down a steep hill on Edwards with a crosswalk at Galindo. Such traffic should not be expected to stop on a dime seconds after a pedestrian presses a button. This is a set-up for an accident, making the pedestrian less sensitive to the flow of traffic down Edwards Street and providing a false sense of confidence from blinking lights that don’t actually stop traffic but may instead increase the likelihood of an accident.
Trinidad made a nice move regarding light pollution by installing modest street lamps. But the situation with signage brings a trashy feel to a beautiful spot. Changes are needed, and these signs should be the first to go.
With regards,
Beth Sarwar and Pete Alcorn
2/5/25, 1:59 PM
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Resident feedback on Pickleball court and signage
From Lille Sand <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/3/2025 6:35 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Dear Clerk Tagliaboschi,
Thank you for the information we received in the mail and the invitation to provide feedback. We appreciate this.
Pickleball:
We have been Trinidad residents for 10 years and have been hoping for a pickleball upgrade since we moved here. We think this would be a great addition to our community. It would foster health, fitness, fun and camaraderie. We hope that the city goes ahead with this upgrade to the tennis court! (Decibel levels of pickleball seem comparable to the levels that currently exist being near a fire station, restaurant, school and town hall. ) Pedestrian Crossing Signage:
We are grateful for all the new safety improvements, especially the pedestrian crosswalk enhancements. The clearly visible signage provides clarity for drivers and peace of mind for pedestrians. We have noticed that traffic coming up from the harbor goes more slowly now on the Edwards blind curve. This is a great safety improvement. The yellow pedestrian sign reminds motorists to be alert and mind the speed limit.
The pedestrian signage at the Hector location serves that dual purpose as well, showing visitors on foot where to safely cross, and reminding guest motorists to slow down, keep their eyes on the road (not the beautiful bay) and watch for pedestrian safety.
While we remain disappointed in the non-functional status of the Van Wycke trail, we feel safer walking along Edwards Street since the pedestrian shoulder is marked more clearly now with striping.
Thank you to the Mayor, Council and City Staff for all your diligence and hard work. Your care and leadership is noted and greatly appreciated.
Respectfully,
Cresta and Mark Schiefer
2/11/25, 9:17 AM
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Crosswalk Signs on Edwards
From Mike Sebring <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/10/2025 2:31 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Thanks to the City Council for spending the many years it took to get crosswalks and signs installed on Edwards. Trinidad has seen a big increase in speeding traffic going through town on Main and Edwards down to the harbour. The trend started during the Pandemic and has continued since then in the spring, summer, fall tourist season.
Especially nerve wracking are the speeding RVs, trucks and trucks towing large boats. Many elderly people walk their dogs on Edwards and cannot move out of the way fast enough. Before the signs were in place it was progressively more dangerous.
Since the crosswalks and signs there has been a huge improvement slowing people down.
Thanks again.
Mike Sebring
2/11/25, 9:18 AM
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Comments for Feb 11 CC Meeting re: Signs on Edwards
From Kimberly Tays <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/10/2025 4:04 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Gabe, Will you please send my comments to the City Council for tomorrow night’s meeting, as I do not have a complete list of their emails.
Thank you, Kim
************************************************************************************* Dear City Council,
Even though I no longer live in Trinidad, I did live there for 12 years and have a very fond place in my heart for this beautiful little town.
For years, many of us in Trinidad (Friends of Trinidad Head) worked very hard to protect the views from various vantage points and declutter the town of unnecessary signage. Although I did not receive a survey about the flashing crossing signs on Edwards, I wanted to submit my comments, because I think these signs are a terrible blight on the landscape, block ocean views and degrade the aesthetics of the community. The brightly-colored signs, flashing lights and painted markings are overkill and do not fit in at all with the quaint village vibe of Trinidad. Surely, something less intrusive can serve the purpose of pedestrian safety without marring the scenic beauty of these locations.
I am asking the City Council to please ask for the removal of these garish signs and come up with another plan for these crossings.
Thank you for considering my thoughts on this issue.
Kimberly Tays
Former Trinidad Resident
Sent from my iPad
RE: Agenda Item: 5. Discussion/Decision regarding Water Advisory Committee Status February 7, 2025
Dear City Council:
I support the recommendation to dissolve the Water Advisory Committee. I agree with the statement made at the January 14, 2025 City Council meeting: “…recommend that we sunset the Water Advisory Committee…proposal that those decisions are better suited to sit with the council.”
Examples of some decisions might be: A connection to Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District, effective strategies to recruit a full time T3 Water Treatment Operator and terminating the City’s long- term contract with Coleman Engineering in order to lower the water plant’s operating costs and also promote capacity building.
On that note: At each City Council meeting, please continue to have the City Manager report, in his Staff Report, the monthly totals paid to Coleman Engineering.
Thank you,
Anita Thompson
Trinidad Water Customer
February 5, 2025
Dear City of Trinidad,
On behalf of the students, staff, and families of Trinidad School, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the installation of new crosswalks and crosswalk beacons throughout the town. These enhancements significantly improve the safety of our students as they walk, bike, and explore our community.
During the school year, our students frequently take walking field trips to local destinations such as the library and post office, Trinidad Head, State Beach, and the Marine Laboratory. The new safety measures provide an added layer of protection as they navigate town. Additionally, outside of school hours—on weekends and throughout the summer—many of our students and their families enjoy walking, skating, and biking through Trinidad. The presence of well-marked crosswalks and beacons will help ensure their safety as they travel through the community.
Beyond benefiting our students, we believe these improvements will enhance the safety of all community members and visitors. Trinidad is a beloved destination and these upgrades create a safer and more walkable environment for everyone who lives in and visits our town.
Your commitment to pedestrian safety demonstrates a deep care for our city's residents, particularly our youngest ones. We greatly appreciate your efforts and look forward to continued collaboration in making Trinidad a safe and welcoming place for all.
With gratitude,
Alyse E. Nichols
Superintendent/ Principal
Trinidad School
2/11/25, 5:29 PM
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Re: pickleball court
From Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/11/2025 5:28 PM
To Jim Stephenson <[email protected]>
Hi Jim,
Message received in time to make it on the public record for the meeting tonight.
Thanks!
Gabriel Adams
Trinidad City Clerk
409 Trinity Street
P.O. Box 390
Trinidad, CA 95570
707.677.0223
https://trinidad.ca.gov
From: Jim Stephenson <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2025 10:20 AM
To: Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Subject: re: pickleball court
I am against adding pickleball lines to the trinidad tennis court for the following reasons:
1. there are plenty of pickleball courts in our area, Larson Park, Valley west, indoor courts at Arcata community center, Blue Lake etc
today at 10 AM on a sunny day, there were no pickleball games at larson or Valley West 2 the trinidad tennis court is shorter and narrower than standard tennis courts(the space between the outside lines of the court and the fence)
.
to fit 2 pickleball courts on the tennis court, one on each side of the tennis net (similar to the layout at Larson)--- there would not be enough room for safe play
3. If pickleballers planned to use the tennis net and have only one game, note that pickleball nets are a different height than tennis nets--serious pickleballers would not do this
4. the sound of wooden paddle hitting plastic ball carries for probably two blocks(this happens at my sister's house in Minnesota)
2/11/25, 5:29 PM
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5. 20+ years ago Chi-wei Lin, the former mayor, got a grant from the United States tennis association to re-do the court. Perhaps that could be renewed.
The stipulation at that time was the court had to be only for tennis use, no basketball hoops, for instance.
Thanks for your consideration.
Jim Stephenson
499 N Westhaven Dr
Trinidad
2/11/25, 5:17 PM
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Pickleball
From Marilyn Sterling <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/11/2025 2:18 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Pickle ball comment:
Its too far away from my house to bother me. However, I suggest that rather than people that live closer speculating on how it will affect them, you a "test" on a Saturday morning by simulating the sound or decibel level of a pickleball game. I suggest you notify the people that live directly around the court in advance so they can listen and then decide how they feel about it. I don't know enough about it to suggest how you do the test- if you can "play" pickleball on the existing court. I do know a local sound engineer we could ask to help us if needed- just let me know if so.
2/11/25, 9:14 AM
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Edwards Street Improvement
From Sherry Vanderpool <[email protected]>
Date Mon 2/10/2025 1:33 PM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Re: Edwards Street Improvement—Hector Street & Galindo Street Crosswalk Signage RRFB’s Dear City Council Members,
Thank you for the opportunity to express our (city residents) thoughts on the City’s recent traffic signage.
We will agree that the pedestrian signs on Main Street (near Murphys) was a good idea as it slows traffic coming into town, and was the intersection where the only two accidents in a five year period occurred (both involving property damage only, and at night). An even possible better solution to that could be a notice of a 15 MPH City speed limit. We have viewed many cars entering town in excess of 30-40 MPH.
Also, the signs in front of the school, since there are always cars parked on both sides of the street that restricts views of possible small children crossing, was a viable solution for the protection of the children since the elimination of the crossing guards.
Regarding the Edwards Street signs, we feel they are excessive. Both pedestrians and drivers have a clear view of any potential hazards that could occur. Minimal signage has always been the preference of our small city, as stated in Trinidad’s 2022 Local Road Safety Plan. However, the City has been adding more and more; we personally do not want to lose the uncluttered, serene feeling this small town has. It seems that protecting the views of our neighbors is also always a big concern and it is our belief that those whose views have been impacted should have been given advance notice, with a right to oppose.
Thank you for your time and for volunteering for your positions.
Respectfully,
Chuck and Sherry Vanderpool
707 Underwood Drive
2/11/25, 9:16 AM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LW…A4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQAOOXoNGSYyVMhdXT%2BXCOwUg%3D Page 1 of 2 Outlook
Re: Pickleball court
From Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Date Tue 2/11/2025 9:16 AM
To Sherry Vanderpool <[email protected]>
Cc Asouza Trinidad <[email protected]>
Hi Sherry,
Message received, forwarded to the Council, and included in the public comment record for tonight's meeting.
Thank you,
Gabriel Adams
Trinidad City Clerk
409 Trinity Street
P.O. Box 390
Trinidad, CA 95570
707.677.0223
https://trinidad.ca.gov
From: Sherry Vanderpool <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 10, 2025 1:37 PM
To: Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Subject: Pickleball court
Re: Pickleball Court
Dear City Council Members,
We are writing to oppose the repaving of the tennis court to include a pickle ball court. We only have one tennis court. If the City feels we should have a Pickleball court, perhaps it could be built elsewhere.
We are troubled with the noise level of pickleball, as the sound of the plastic pickleball leaving the wooden racket is a “pop pop” sound that can be annoying. It’s noisier and because it’s a slower paced game than tennis, it leads to more talking amongst the players. There is also a great possibility of it being utilized by the vacation rentals guests, that may not be concerned about respecting the neighbors living by the court.
Pickleball teams will bring twice the amount of people playing and will pose scheduling problems, as our tennis court is already utilized a good amount of the time. According to the latest industry survey, the growth of new tennis players in the last two years is not only greater than the growth of all other racket sports combined, but new tennis players outnumber the entire total of all pickleball players nationwide.
2/11/25, 9:16 AM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LW…A4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQAOOXoNGSYyVMhdXT%2BXCOwUg%3D Page 2 of 2 Humboldt County is already home to many pickleball courts:
McKinleyville has 6 indoor courts.
Arcata has 7 indoor and 6 outdoor courts.
Blue Lake has 3 indoor courts.
Eureka has 4 indoor and 8 outdoor courts.
Thank you for the opportunity of expressing our concerns and for your time in volunteering for our City.
Respectfully,
Chuck & Sherry Vanderpool
707 Underwood Drive
2/5/25, 11:22 AM
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADkxOWYxMDM1LWYyYjYtNDA4Zi05MTBhLTY4Y2I3NTgyYTFjMwAQAGixnK1efaRElgcIABWZSiQ%3D Page 1 of 1 Outlook
Pedestrian crossing enhancements
From David Winnett <[email protected]>
Date Wed 2/5/2025 10:51 AM
To Cityclerk Trinidad <[email protected]>
Cc sharon winnett <[email protected]>
My wife and I are very disappointed that the decision was made by our city governance to install flashing lights at pedestrian crossings at Galindo and Hector streets. We like many other Trinidad property owners find them disgusting and truly not necessary. Why would anyone living in or just visiting the quaint little sea side village of Trinidad want to electreonically trash the nostalgic charm of our town or the beautiful vista of the Bay and Trinidad Head that one enjoys as they stroll or drive along Edwards Street?
We, as many other citizens of Trinidad, were not aware that our local government was initiating such an abrupt change in the character of Trinidad’s walkable landscape. We are also questioning what members of the community of Trinidad felt these big city type flashing lights were genuinely needed in our little village? We have been property owners in Trinidad for 30 years and have crossed Edwards countless times never feeling the need to stop traffic or touch off an emergency type flashing warning light just to hasten our crossing the street. Wow who dreamed up this urgent and unnecessary traffic bottleneck, this is Trinidad not LA ? As Trinidad property owners and past soon to be returning citizens we would like to see these unneeded atrocities removed!
Thank you for presenting our concerns to the city council we hope sensible minds prevail.
David and Sharon Winnett