Parking Permit Program Update - Holly Tillman Has Finally Reappeared After 8 Weeks of Silence

By Clayton Watch

So, after we dropped an update about the Parking Permit Program on Next Door and Clayton Watch yesterday, Holly Tillman finally popped back up after being MIA for about 8 weeks. It seems like she’s putting the blame for the radio silence on Jeff Wan. You’d think if she noticed he hadn’t responded, she would’ve reached out to him. Maybe it’s just campaign season that got her to finally check in... after 11:30 p.m.

To read our prior correspondence with Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman, click on the following link. https://www.claytonwatch.org/search/label/Parking%20Permit

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Letecia “Holly” Tillman Mon, Aug 19, 11:30 PM (9 hours ago) to Jeff, William, me

Good evening, All.

Jeff, thank you for responding. I recall you wanted to take the lead and take the first attempt of a draft proposal and share with me for feedback. After we agree on a draft we would then bring back to council.

I completely agree with your explanation regarding our priority of finding a permanent city manager. That’s such a vital first priority to finalize so Clayton can be managed efficiently.

I hope we can work to have a functioning council that supports our new city manager — the Clayton residents and staff deserve stability in City Hall.

Holly

Holly Tillman
Council Member
City of Clayton
925-673-7321
925-302-6261 (cell)
hollyt@claytonca.gov

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Parking Permit Program Update - After a Few Weeks, We Finally Heard Back From Council Member Jeff Wan, but Still No Word From Holly Tillman.

By Clayton Watch

To read our prior correspondence with Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman, click on the following link. https://www.claytonwatch.org/search/label/Parking%20Permit

Hi, Bill -

I've pulled Jim Diaz off of this email thread so as to not create a communication with a majority of the Council.

The Council and City have been focusing quite a bit on finding and onboarding a permanent City Manager. While Adam Politzer as our Interim City Manager has been doing excellent work, as a retiree his time is limited and he is not able to continue with the City past a certain point. It has been my primary goal to find a permanent replacement.

There will likely be a period of time after we hire a permanent replacement to properly onboard the individual. After that point we'll be able to take up the issue of a parking permit program again.

Thank you for your patience.

-Jeff Wan

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Tillman and Wan Not Responding on Details for Parking Permit Program

By Clayton Watch

Councilmembers Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman,

I sent both of you an email three weeks ago about the Parking Permit Program and you have not responded. If you did respond and it ended up in my spam folder, I apologize.

As I said before, the citizens of Stranahan and surrounding neighborhoods are anxiously awaiting to hear the details of the proposed parking permit program that you will be presenting to the city council for action and approval. However, they are becoming extremely frustrated with your silence. This is very unfortunate, because they were very encouraged after you held a community outreach meeting in April that a parking permit proposal would be forthcoming.

I am not sure why there has been no action, but I know you are very busy Holly and will be even more busy with your re-election campaign. If this is the case, and you do not have the time to serve on the committee, please ask the Mayor to replace you so we can move this forward.

I look forward to your response.

Bill Walcutt

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Parking Permit Program - Waiting for an Update from Jeff and Holly

By Clayton Watch

Councilmembers Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman,

The citizens of Stranahan and surrounding neighborhoods are anxiously awaiting to hear the details of the proposed parking permit program that you will be presenting to the city council for action and approval. We will be happy to review it and provide feedback before it goes to the council.

Please let us know what you are recommending and when we can expect this item to be put on the city council's agenda for approval.

I look forward to your response.

Bill Walcutt

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Parking Permit Program – Meeting Recap

By Clayton Watch

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.

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Parking Permit Meeting Date with Councilmembers Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman

By Clayton Watch

Councilmembers Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman,

Just checking to see if you have decided on a meeting date for the Parking Permit Program. I know you are busy, but there is some urgency now to move this along because it appears Olivia has a buyer. Mr Jordan shows Olivia as "Under Contract" on Loopnet and potential parking restrictions in surrounding neighborhoods are "Material Facts" that must be disclosed to a potential buyer under California Law. This disclosure becomes troublesome if there are no details on the program and there has been no official action by the committee or the council.

I look forward to our first meeting. Please me know the date and time of this meeting.

Thank you

Bill Walcutt

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Why Can’t I Park In Front Of My House?

By Clayton Watch

Dear Neighbor:

We just started a petition for a "Resident-Only Parking Permit Program" here in Clayton and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name. Our goal is to reach 4500 signatures. You can read more and sign the petition by clicking the following link. https://chng.it/bFF9YVxJ

This request is being made because past Clayton City Council members C.W.
Wolfe, Tuija Catalano, and Julie Pierce originally approved a three-story 81-unit apartment building in historic downtown with insufficient parking. With Peter Cloven, CW. Wolfe and Holly Tillman recently approving a one-year extension for the developer, now is the time to take action.

Their approval of the recent “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” high-density housing project in Historic Downtown is just one example of the City of Clayton failing to protect its citizens from any undue hardship due. Not requiring “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project to provide sufficient parking for the eighty-one (81) approved apartments is deplorable.

Please sign the petition today. https://chng.it/bFF9YVxJ

Thanks,

Clayton Watch

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Look at the crazy nonsense your city council and staff have discussed.

* 81 units with only one parking stall

* Comments by city council Julie, Wolfe, Catalano, and staff.

* Maybe they can use the AT&T parking lot right next door (Julie)

* Comments by developer

* 55 and over senior project

* Bus passes for one year

* Cover parking

* Trash bins

* Parking study

* Donate for crossings and parking permits (Stranahan)

* Any spillover into surrounding neighborhoods or downtown is unacceptable and will lead to increased traffic, noise, lower property values, and parking inconveniences for family and visitors, and will negatively affect the right to “quiet enjoyment” as granted to every homeowner and tenant by law. (Staff)

* Outdated parking study

* Average car 2.3 Clayton study

Summary: Any reasonable person would conclude that The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project should have never been approved based on the facts. Number of units, and no senior restrictions, one can safely assume that over 100 cars will be looking for a permanent parking place.

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Parking Permit Meeting - Community Outreach

By Clayton Watch

Hi Holly and Jeff,

Thanks for your quick reply regarding meeting up with the community. Sorry for the test email. I'm not sure what caused the error.

Anyhow, moving forward, the community is very excited about moving these meetings forward.

Question? Please let us know what your plans are to reach out to the community before setting up a meeting date. Posting this information on the city website would be great along with a few social media posts.

Please advise,

Gary Hood
Clayton Watch

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Parking Permit Ad Hoc Committee

By Clayton Watch

Councilmembers Jeff Wan and Holly Tillman,

Thank you for volunteering to serve on the Parking Permit Ad Hoc Committee and working with the community to find solutions to mitigate the impact of Olivia's lack of parking on our neighborhoods. We know you are busy, but we ask that you move this up on your priority list because there is urgency. As you know, Mr Jordan has the project listed for sale and he will be required to disclose the details of the parking permit program to a potential buyer once they are approved by the council.

Please let us know what you are proposing for potential meeting dates. We recommend a separate meeting in each of the affected neighborhoods and historic downtown. In addition, please let us know how you will inform the community of the meeting dates.

We are eagerly awaiting your response.

Gary Hood
Clayton Watch

Bill Walcutt
Clayton Watch

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The Clayton Community is Counting on Leadership! - Downtown Parking Permit Program

By Clayton Watch

Dear Mayor, Council, Staff, and Community Members,

During Tuesday's City Council Meeting, City Manager Bret Prebula’s justification for postponing action on a downtown parking permit program was disappointing if not downright embarrassing to the people in attendance. While a comprehensive parking study could provide useful data, implementing basic parking restrictions does not require significant resources or outside consultants. It was quite obvious that Bret has a different agenda for Clayton and all of us (including the City Council) need to wake up before it's too late. It was very apparent by Bret’s word salad and his long-winded excuse on the cost to implement a full-blown parking permit program, that his vision for Clayton is not aligned with 95% of the residents.

If you watch his video about Olivia on the city website, the last 15 seconds of it will tell you all you need to know about his vision.
https://share.repd.us/og/clayton/en/4631. He wants more of the Olivia-type projects to come to Clayton. Whoever hired this guy needs to take action now.

Rather than delay, we need to take simple, common-sense steps now. For instance, a simple signage program with some teeth might be the answer. Additionally, increasing parking citation fees would discourage illegal parking without requiring new staff or processes. Our $20 fee is not enough of a deterrent. A modest increase could reduce repeat violations, freeing police resources for other priorities such as patrolling downtown and other areas such as Stranahan and surrounding neighborhoods.

We cannot accept continuing to ignore an issue that will affect so many. I hope we can work together to take decisive action. The community is counting on leadership to address challenging issues, rather than evade them. Bret, I would have assumed you had learned from your lack of action on the Olivia oversight problems, but it seems you did not.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Gary Hood

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Parking Permit Program – Talking Points

By Clayton Watch

• A high-density housing project “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” has been approved across the street from Stranahan with insufficient onsite parking.

• 81 units will be built with less than 100 parking spaces for the whole complex.

• Only 5 guest parking spaces with limited handicapped parking.

• Census data shows approximately 37% of Clayton residents have 2 cars, and about 58% have three cars or more. There is no reason this project will be any different.

• Clayton's parking standard is 2.23 parking spaces per unit, consistent with current census data. This would mean 180 to 250 cars for the Olivia project.

• The parking study presented by the developer, and accepted by the city, of 1.1 parking spaces per unit was based on a 2008 parking study of a 55+ age-restricted community in Pennsylvania.

• This project has no age restriction and is not a 55+ senior housing project.

• 100+ additional cars without on-site parking spaces will come to your neighborhood.

• 36 two-bedroom units and 45 one-bedroom units have been approved. With the possibility of 45 more high-density housing units being placed on the Hoyer property.

• Only 7 units will be restricted as low-income; the rest will be leased at market rates, which means a two-income family and at least two cars, not one.

• Spillover into the neighborhoods and downtown is guaranteed.

• Clayton has limited bus service, so taking the bus to work is not viable.

• We must place the burden on the developer and the city, not the citizens.

• If a Parking permit sticker is required – A no-fee program will be requested for the residences due to the city approving this project. In addition, the developer supposedly committed $2,500 to institute a parking permit program.

• The parking permit program will only commence when the developer starts construction. (Once he starts, the program is activated.)

• Once the project is built, it will be too late to try to place restrictions on parking.

• A citywide parking permit program would ensure that spillover from the

proposed high-density projects would place the burden on the developers.

• Developers need to provide adequate onsite parking.

• Parking should be the developer’s responsibility.

• Developers should not affect neighborhoods.

• Spillover parking should not be allowed in neighborhoods.

• The city council needs to take immediate action.

• The council did not listen to the residents.

• The parking study was a joke.

• Downtown business will be affected.

• The post office and city park will have limited parking if renters are allowed to park overnight.

• Neighborhoods will be littered with unwanted cars in front of their homes.

• Why wasn’t a parking study done in California?

• The project is not senior housing, why is it referred to as one?

• Three stories are unacceptable at its current location.

• The project will harm Clayton.

• There will be 100 to 250 new cars looking for a place to park.

• We must place the burden on the developers and the city, not neighborhoods.

• Most people and families have at least two cars.

What was the council thinking?

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Parking Permit Program - Map Legend and Concerns

Diablo Village (Gold) - Located directly across from the city bus stop, CVS, and fire station on Center Street, this residential housing development consisting of many homes that will surely experience spillover parking from the “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project and will be negatively impacted due to its prime location and easy walking distance to downtown. The shortage of onsite parking spaces at the “Olivia” project and what to do about it has sparked the community to demand that the City of Clayton find an immediate solution. While one solution may be a parking permit program, another resolution is necessary to prevent this from happening again with future high-density projects.

Upper Easley Estates (Green) - Located directly behind the Stranahan housing development, on the eastside, residents of this housing development will surely experience spillover parking in their neighborhood from “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project, due to easy access to the park trails that lead directly to the south side of the Stranahan housing development and on to Marsh Creek Road. State vehicle code allows local authorities to restrict parking to reduce traffic and litter from nonresidents to ensure convenient parking is available for residents and their guests. A citywide parking permit program would ensure that spillover from proposed high-density projects would place the burden on developers to provide adequate “onsite” parking for their residences without affecting the surrounding neighborhoods or town center.

Stranahan (Blue) - Located directly across from “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project, this residential housing development will experience a major impact from the spillover parking from the project, as indicated in staff reports in 2019 and 2020. Due to its prime location and easy walking distance to the “Olivia” project, residents of Stranahan will be severely impacted. In addition, public safety will become a concern with the increased pedestrian traffic crossing over Marsh Creek Road, not to mention the increased vehicle traffic. The shortage of onsite parking spaces at the “Olivia” project will become a citywide problem if the City Council does not take action immediately. A citywide parking permit, along with placing the responsibility of available parking on developers in the future, is the answer.

Lower Easley Estates (Purple) - Located directly next to the Stranahan housing development, on the south side, the residents of this housing development will experience spillover parking in their neighborhood from “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project, due to easy access to the park trail that leads directly to the south side of the Stranahan housing development, which leads on to Marsh Creek Road. A citywide parking permit program would ensure that spillover from proposed high-density projects would place the burden on developers to provide adequate “onsite” parking for their residences without affecting the surrounding neighborhoods or town center.

Downtown / Business District (Red Line) - Spillover parking from the “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project will negatively affect our downtown parking spaces and businesses. The lack of available parking spaces will create many challenges for business owners and their customers. With other approved projects, that have already received parking requirement exceptions, the City of Clayton is only exasperating the parking problem in the town center. While one solution may be a parking permit program, painting curbs red and posting “No Overnight Parking” signs may also be necessary, along with purchasing vacant land that can be turned into public parking.

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Petition for a "Resident-Only Parking Permit Program - Sign Today!

By Clayton Watch

Dear Neighbor:

We just started a petition for a "Resident-Only Parking Permit Program" here in Clayton and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name.

This request is being made because past Clayton City Council members C.W. Wolfe, Tuija Catalano, and Julie Pierce originally approved a three-story 81-unit apartment building in historic downtown with insufficient parking. With Peter Cloven, CW. Wolfe and Holly Tillman recently voting to approve a one-year extension for the developer, now is the time for the citizens of Clayton to make their voices heard.

Our goal is to reach 4500 signatures. You can read more and sign the petition by clicking the following link. https://chng.it/bFF9YVxJ

The Olivia on Marsh Creek” high-density housing project in Historic Downtown is just one example of the City of Clayton failing to protect its citizens from undue hardship. Not requiring “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project to provide sufficient parking for the eighty-one (81) approved apartments is deplorable and unacceptable. Maybe it’s time for the developer to consider downsizing the project to a size that can accommodate on-site parking.

Please sign the petition today. https://chng.it/bFF9YVxJ

Thanks,

Clayton Watch

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Public Notice - It’s Official – Mark Your Calendar!

By Clayton Watch

We have been notified that our proposed Parking Permit Program will be heard at the next Clayton City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 16 at 7 PM.

We need to get the word out and pack the place, so please plan on attending and tell your family and friends to attend.

The approval of "The Olivia on Marsh Creek," an 81-unit high-density housing project downtown, failed to mandate adequate parking for residents. The city allowed the developer of the Olivia project to provide less than 100 onsite parking spaces for the 81 units with no offsite parking spaces identified.

This oversight enables parking to spill over into surrounding neighborhoods and downtown areas, which increases traffic, noise, and inconvenience while infringing on homeowners' and renters' rights to peacefully enjoy their properties.

The Clayton City Council must act now to implement a residential permit parking program with downtown restrictions. Additionally, all future housing projects should provide ample on-site parking to prevent community impacts.

It's time for the City Council to Just Say "No" to developers and listen to their constituents.

Let us work together to preserve the character of our downtown and our neighborhoods while allowing for managed and controlled growth in the right locations.

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Parking Permit Program - Mission One Complete

By Clayton Watch

Mission One Complete! As of last night, Tuesday, July 18, 2023, we are now officially on the next City Council agenda for action to be taken. We will notify everyone of the date and time once we receive the information from our City Clerk. Your support and participation will be needed at the next meeting in order to make the Parking Permit Program a reality. So stay tuned.

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Parking Permit Program Advances - To Be Heard By City Council

By Clayton Watch

Hello Clayton Community:

We have been notified that our proposed Parking Permit Program will be heard at the next Clayton City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 16th at 7 PM. We need to get the word out and pack the place, so please plan on attending and tell your family and friends to attend.

Petition summary and background:

We the residents of Clayton, California, petition the Clayton City Council to take action. Specifically, we request the establishment of a resident-only parking permit program for select neighborhoods, including restrictions on downtown on-street parking.

Past council members approved a development project that will negatively impact parking and quality of life without requiring sufficient provisions to mitigate these effects.

The approval of "The Olivia on Marsh Creek," an 81-unit high-density housing project downtown, failed to mandate adequate parking for residents. The city allowed the developer of the Olivia project to provide less than 100 onsite parking spaces for the 81 units with no offsite parking spaces identified.

This oversight enables parking to spill over into surrounding neighborhoods and downtown areas, which increases traffic, noise, and inconvenience while infringing on homeowners' and renters' rights to peacefully enjoy their properties.

The Clayton City Council must act now to implement a residential permit parking program with downtown restrictions. Additionally, all future housing projects should provide ample on-site parking to prevent community impacts.

As representatives of Clayton citizens, we urge you to take steps to remedy the parking and quality of life issues caused by insufficient planning requirements for new developments. It's time for the City Council to Just Say "No" to developers and listen to their constituents.

Let us work together to preserve the character of our downtown and our neighborhoods while allowing for managed and controlled growth in the right locations.

Don’t Forget Tuesday, January 16th at 7 PM - See You There!

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Parking Permit Program - Facts

By Clayton Watch

1. A high-density residential development known as "The Olivia on Marsh Creek" has received approval directly across from Stranahan, despite inadequate onsite parking provisions.

2. The project will consist of 81 units, yet it will provide fewer than 90 parking spaces for the entire complex.

3. There will be merely 5 guest parking spaces available, along with limited accommodations for handicapped parking.

4. According to census data, approximately 37% of residents in Clayton own two vehicles, while around 58% possess three or more. It is reasonable to expect that this development will reflect similar trends.

5. Clayton's parking regulations stipulate a requirement of 2.23 parking spaces per unit, which aligns with the current census data. This would imply a need for over 180 parking spaces for the Olivia project.

6. The parking analysis submitted by the developer, which was approved by the city, suggested a provision of 1.1 parking spaces per unit. This figure was derived from a 2008 study of a 55+ age-restricted community in Pennsylvania.

7. It is important to note that this development does not impose any age restrictions and is not designated as a senior housing project for individuals aged 55 and older.

8. The neighborhood can expect an influx of over 100 additional vehicles without corresponding onsite parking facilities.

9. The approved plan includes 36 two-bedroom units and 45 one-bedroom units.

10. Only 7 of these units will be designated as low-income; the remainder will be rented at market rates, which typically involves a two-income household and at least two vehicles.

11. The likelihood of parking overflow into surrounding neighborhoods and downtown areas is assured.

12. Given that Clayton has limited public transportation options, commuting by bus is not a feasible alternative.

13. The responsibility for addressing these issues must rest with the developer and the city, rather than the residents.

14. In light of the city’s approval of this project, a request will be made for a no-fee parking permit program for residents. Additionally, the developer had initially pledged $2,500 to establish a parking permit program, although this commitment was altered in the final resolution.

15. The implementation of the parking permit program will only take effect once the developer commences construction. (The program will be activated upon the start of construction.)

Once the development is completed, it will be too late to impose any parking restrictions.

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Petition - Resident Only Parking Permit Program

By Clayton Watch

Petition to Establish Resident - Only Parking Permit Program in Stranahan, Diablo Village, Upper Easley Estates, Lower Easley Estates, including imposing restrictions on on-street parking downtown.

Petition summary and background: We, the residents of Clayton, California, petition the Clayton City Council to establish a resident-only parking permit program in select residential neighborhoods, including, but not limited to, imposing certain restrictions for on-street parking in the downtown area. (See map below.)

This request is being made because the City of Clayton has caused, or will cause in the future, residences to be adversely affected by their decisions concerning current and future housing projects. The approval of the recent “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” high-density housing project is just one example of the City of Clayton failing to protect its citizens from any undue hardship due to not requiring “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project to provide sufficient parking for the eighty-one (81) approved units.
Any spillover into surrounding neighborhoods, or downtown, is unacceptable and will lead to increased traffic, noise, lower property values, and parking inconveniences for family and visitors, and will greatly negatively affect the right to “quiet enjoyment” as granted to every homeowner and tenant by law.

Action petitioned for: We, the undersigned, hereby request that the Clayton City Council consider this petition for the establishment of a residential permit-parking program, including, but not limited to, imposing certain restrictions on on-street parking in the downtown area. (See map below.)



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Putting the City Council on Notice - Petition to Establish a Resident Only Parking Permit Program

By Clayton Watch

Dear Mayor Wan, City Council, and Staff,

As many of you may know, we have been active in city politics for over 38 years. We have been a part of several citizen/community groups making citizens aware and providing input to the city council regarding land use plans and decisions, along with other essential city matters.

It has always been our goal, as well as many other town residents, to ensure we preserve Clayton's open, rural, small-town character. We have always urged our city council and have entrusted them to make sure any development that comes to town is done without negatively affecting the city, the citizens, and our quality of life, but many of us now feel that trust has been betrayed.

We are writing to you today because “The Olivia on Marsh Creek” project will significantly affect the citizens and businesses in the surrounding areas due to the lack of sufficient parking to serve the size of the approved development.

After reading reports from the Planning Commission and City Council, it is apparent that the parking study was over ten years old, and the parking study submitted by the developer was solely based on the project being a senior 55+ community. This needs to be corrected to more accurately represent how the apartments will be marketed because there is no age restriction on these units, which will affect how many cars each unit will generate.

Since the City of Clayton (Planning Commission and City Council) has acknowledged and recognized that available parking for a high-density residential development of this size is insufficient and the resulting spillover parking would significantly impact the surrounding residential and business properties, we are respectfully requesting that immediate action be taken to correct this problem before it materializes to an out of control situation.

Approving 81 units with less than 90 on-site parking spaces and ignoring our parking laws and ordinances is not only irrational - but also irresponsible. Therefore, because the parking impact was not properly mitigated due to Density Bonus Laws and other factors, we are respectfully presenting to you today a petition to establish a resident-only parking permit program, which includes Stranahan, Diablo Village, Upper Easley Estates, Lower Easley Estates, Center Street and parts of the downtown. (See attached documents.)

If you would like to discuss this matter or have any questions, please get in touch with us at a suitable time, as we would like the City Council to be proactive now rather than reactive later.

Looking forward to seeing this matter on the next available agenda in February.

Best regards,

Gary Hood
Clayton Watch

Bill Walcutt
Clayton Watch

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