The first meeting of the Parking Permit Ad Hoc Committee took place in Stranahan Park on Monday, April 29th at 4 pm. Present were Council Member Jeff Wan, Council Member Holly Tillman, and Chief of Police Richard McEachin, as well as 25 to 30 community residents. During this gathering and relevant discussion, we urged committee members Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman to recap their ideas and our ideas and put the parking permit program on the agenda for consideration and approval as soon as possible.
Background and History: Approval for The Olivia on March Creek, an 81-unit apartment project, was granted by the city council on March 3, 2020, through Resolution No. 7-2020. Misleading information regarding the parking impact was presented to the residents. In response to developers neglecting to provide adequate parking, the concept of implementing a parking permit system for residents and downtown emerged. It is important to highlight that any financial support pledged by the developer to address parking and safety concerns was withdrawn during the concluding negotiations and concessions. Consequently, the responsibility of addressing these issues falls upon us.
General Recap: During the meeting, Jeff clearly stated his opposition to the city funding a parking permit program, emphasizing the achievements of the Regency parking permit program. However, he did express his support for implementing a parking permit program in Stranahan, lower Easley, and downtown. The attendees had many questions and suggestions. They inquired about expenses, how guest permits would be allocated to residents, the enforcement protocol, and the need for significant penalties for violators. The folks present unanimously decided that the city should launch the initiative in Stranahan, lower Easley, and downtown areas, with a strong focus on "Resident Parking Only" and "No Overnight Parking." Jeff projected a completion window of 60 to 90 days for the parking permit program. . . once they get started. A specific timeline for Jeff and Holly to meet was not disclosed nor would he commit to a timeframe. Jeff talked about the expected expenses for implementing the program, which includes staff and administrative costs. However, it seems that these costs are not accurate. Since the existing city staff and legal counsel are already being paid, the development of the program will not incur any additional costs. The main expenses will be for signage and installation. It is important to mention that the city was identified as the cause of the problem and therefore should be made responsible for resolving it.
What Happens Next? Jeff and Holly must convene promptly to present their findings and recommendations to the entire council, who will decide the program's fate.
Anticipated Timing for Implementation of Parking Permit Program? Soon, rather than later.
What Can We Do? Get in touch with the city council members, Jeff and Holly, by giving them a call or sending them an email. You can reach Jeff Wan at 925-673-7323 or email him at jeff.wan@claytonca.gov. For Holly Tillman, dial 925-673-7321 or drop her an email at hollyt@claytonca.gov. It's important to let them know it's high time to take proactive measures instead of reactive ones.
Stay Tuned and Informed
For more information and updates on meeting dates, keep in contact with your neighbors. For in-depth details about the Olivia on Marsh Creek project, visit the following websites:
1. The City of Clayton's website provides a comprehensive overview of resolution No. 07-2020, along with the conditions of approval (COA). https://claytonca.gov/. If you have trouble locating the information, call the city at 925-673-7300
2. Visit Loopnet.com to see the full listing of the Olivia project, currently priced at 8.7 million dollars, reduced from 9 million a month ago. The property has been intermittently listed for over four years and does indicate that it is under contract. The entitlements are included in the purchase, and any alterations to the project would require approval from the planning commission. https://www.loopnet.com/Listing/6170-High-St-Clayton-CA/30612659/
3. Check out Contra Costa County's website to review permit activity for the Olivia project. Many permits have expired, and a "building permit" has not yet been issued. https://epermits.cccounty.us/CitizenAccess/Cap/CapHome.aspx?module=Building&TabName=HOME
Reminder: The Olivia on Marsh Creek monstrosity will not be a 55+ Senior Housing Project. With the estimated rental rate ranging from $3000 to $3500, each household is likely to have a minimum of two cars, along with extra vehicles for teenagers and other family members.
We appreciate you for reading this article.
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When will we hear back from Jeff and Holly? Everyone in our neighborhood is waiting for something to happen.
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