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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCD Greenwood Ave Lot Dedication DiscussionC/TYOF Agenda Item No: 5.b n4 Meeting Date: September 6, 2016 SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT Department: Community Development & Community Services Prepared by: Paul Jensen, Director City Manager Approval: Carlene McCart, Director TOPIC: Greenwood Avenue Lots — Offer of Dedication Ma" SUBJECT: End of Greenwood Avenue — Offer of Dedication of Two Vacant Lots to the City for Permanent Open Space; Marin Open Space Trust, proponent; APNs 012-320-01 and 10. Case No. P16-004. This is an informational item. (CD/CS) RECOMMENDATION: Accept Report and Schedule for Review and Action BACKGROUND: Property Description and History The subject property consists of two residential lots of record (Oakwood Subdivision Unit 2, Lots 21 and 22) located at the terminus of Greenwood Avenue. Greenwood Avenue is located in the southwest corner of the Gerstle Park neighborhood. The lots are vacant and heavily vegetated. A graded trail/fire road traverses the two lots, commencing at Greenwood Avenue and continuing upslope into City - owned open space (Oakwood Open Space). Each lot is approximately 1.5 acres in size and includes the following: • A public utility easement is recorded on the lower Lot 21 along the graded trail/fire road that contains both storm water and sewer/wastewater improvements. • A private sewer easement and sewer line recorded on Lot 22. • Each lot contains a portion of the historic Makin Grade trail, which was the San Rafael-Bolinas stage -coach route leading to Downtown San Rafael. The lots are located in the R1a-H (Single -Family Residential/Hillside Overlay) zoning district, which requires a minimum lot size of one acre. The San Rafael General Plan 2020 land use map designates the lots as Hillside Residential (0.5-2.0 dwelling units per acre). The lots are bordered by developed residential lots to the north and east and undeveloped land to the west and south. FOR CITY CLERK ONLY File No.: 2-1-67 Council Meeting: 09/06/2016 Disposition: Accepted report SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT I Page: 2 The two lots are part of the Oakwood Subdivision, which was recorded in the mid -1980. The Oakwood Subdivision contains 45 residential lots and 30+ acres of preserved open space. All but the two subject lots in this subdivision are developed with single-family homes. Over the years, there have been several planning applications filed for the development of the two lots; however, no permits have ever been approved for development. The two lots are immediately contiguous to the preserved Oakwood Open Space. The open space was dedicated to and accepted by the City as part of the Oakwood Subdivision approval and recordation process. The land dedication and acceptance by the City was done at a time when dedication in -fee title of such offers was common and preferred. Attachment 1 provides various maps of the subject lots, as well as the Oakwood Subdivision. Proposal: The Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) has been contacted by two private parties to assist them in the acquisition of the two vacant lots. Following purchase of the property, MOST desires to transfer ownership of the lots to the City of San Rafael so that the lots can be preserved as permanent open space, serving as an extension to the 30+ acre Oakwood Open Space. The transfer, which would involve a three -party closing of escrow, would be free of acquisition costs to the City. The offer of proposed dedication is summarized in the attached letter from MOST to the City of San Rafael, dated July 20, 2016 (Attachment 2). The letter is supported by additional history, background information and objective for the offer. ANALYSIS: Relationship to San Rafael General Plan 2020 As noted above, the General Plan 2020 designates the two lots in the "Hillside Residential" land use category. The contiguous Oakwood Open Space is designated "Open Space." If the offered lots were accepted for permanent open space, the policies and programs of the General Plan 2020 Open Space Element would be relevant. The following are key Open Space Element policies and programs to consider in this offer: Policy OS -1. Open Space Preservation. Preserve, through a variety of methods, the open space areas identified in the Inventory of Potential Open Space Sites (See Appendix I). Retain and protect open space areas that serve as delineators between neighborhoods and between adjacent communities, as wildlife habitat, and as visual assets for the community. Open space areas can also function as connections between neighborhoods, for example with the creation of pathways in environmentally appropriate areas. Response: Overall, the City of San Rafael has done a good job in preserving land in permanent open space. The City contains over 3,285 acres of land in permanent open space, along with an additional 7,300 acres of permanent open space within the City's planning area. The Oakwood Open Space that is contiguous to the subject lots was preserved through the development review process. This open space provides wildlife habitat and a pathway connection between neighborhoods, and serves as a visual backdrop to several neighborhoods. The subject lots are not on the inventory of potential open space. Program OS -1b. Preservation Opportunities. Through the development review process, preserve open space areas identified on the Open Space Inventory. Encourage the dedication of open space areas that are adjacent to public open space. Possibilities also include acquisition of fee title SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3 or requiring easements for preserving open space. When potential open space is not contiguous to existing public open space, the preference is to retain open space in private ownership.... Response: The City's development review process for creating the two subject lots resulted in securing the contiguous Oakwood Open Space. As this policy encourages the dedication of open space areas that are adjacent to public open space, preserving the subject lots and accepting a dedication in -fee title would be consistent with this policy. Program OS -2a. Open Space Management Plan(s). Establish a committee with representatives from neighborhood associations, environmental organizations, user groups and other stakeholders to prepare an open space management plan. The management plan should address appropriate access points, parking areas, public information signage, trail extensions, restoration of erosion and other degraded areas, and guidelines for the location of amenities such as picnic tables and benches... Response: To date, the City has not developed or adopted an open space management plan. At present, the City does not provide any active maintenance of City -owned open space, including Oakwood Open Space and this practice is not likely to change in the short-term. Policy OS- 3. Open Space Use. Protect and preserve the natural value of open space and wildlife habitat areas while permitting educational and recreational uses compatible with these resources. Specific use objectives include: a. Open space areas should be maintained in a natural state. b. Open space areas are a community resource for use and enjoyment by the residents of San Rafael. c. Uses of open space areas shall be secondary to open space preservation, and limited to those uses with a minimal impact on the environment. Response: The preservation of the subject lots would be consistent with this policy and would ensure that the lots will stay in a natural state. Policy OS- 4. Access to Open Space. Encourage provision of access to open space areas in the design of adjacent development. Secure access paths shown on Exhibit 34 as part of subdivision approvals and design access paths to avoid or minimize neighborhood and user conflicts with sensitive wildlife habitat areas. Response: Exhibit 34 identifies the terminus of Greenwood Avenue as a potential access to the Oakwood open space. The preservation of the subject lots would memorialize this access for public use. At present, the sole access to the Oakwood Open Space from this location is through the subject lots. Should the lots be accepted for permanent open space, there will be the potential for increase in use, which typically brings an increase in traffic, parking, pedestrian and biking use. In addition to the Open Space Element, the General Plan 2020 Safety and Housing Elements should be considered in reviewing the proposal. First, the City's resource maps that support the Safety Element identify that the lots are located in an area of slope instability. A site inspection found steep slopes with some signs of erosion and failure along the edges of the graded trail. This characteristic is common to hillsides in San Rafael. Second, preserving these lots as open space would eliminate them from the City's inventory of vacant residential lots that support new housing opportunities. As noted above, these lots are the only lots in the Oakwood Subdivision that are vacant. SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Paae: 4 Current Policy on City Acceptance of Land In -Fee Title: About 20 years ago, the City changed its policy (unwritten) regarding the acceptance of in -fee title offers of land for permanent open space and parkland. This policy change was largely due to an increase in the City's liability associated with accepting land with slope hazards (landslides/unstable sloped) and fire hazards (limited ability to provide adequate vegetation management), as well as reduced enforcement (policing use and encampment abatement). As the City is now self-insured, the liability exposure is even higher. In recent years, permanent open space has been secured through easements with the underlying fee title to such property retained in private ownership. This current policy has even been applied to the more recent rejection of active park land (e.g. Village @ Loch Lomond Marina publicly -accessible shoreline park). When potential open space land has been deemed to be of County wide significance and contiguous to County -owned open space, historically, fee title was transferred to the County of Marin. As the 30+ acre Oakwood Open Space is isolated and not contiguous to County open space, the County would not be an available steward. The proposal for the City to accept the subject lots in -fee title would not be consistent with the current policy. City Staff Review and Summary: City staff from Community Services, Police, Public Works, Fire, City Attorney's Office and Community Development met to discuss the proposal, the City's current policies and the property conditions and characteristics. The following is a summary and outcome of City staff review: Accepting an offer of dedication in -fee title would NOT be consistent with City's unwritten policy that has been in place for many years. If City were to accept the proposed offer, it may NOT compromise or conflict with our longstanding policy in that: 1) the two subject lots are contiguous to what we already own and manage; 2) dedication of these lots would be a 10% land addition to the current Oakwood Open Space holdings (33+ acres) of the City 3) these lots serve as City/public access to City -owned public open space; and 4) the City already has utility infrastructure and access easements on these lots which the City maintains. Further, the preservation of these lots and acceptance of ownership in -fee title would be consistent with Open Space Element Program OS -1 b (Preservation Opportunities) in that these lots are contiguous to open space land that is presently owned by the City of San Rafael. The addition of the proposed properties will increase City responsibility for vegetation management; property management; security and enforcement requiring more staff and resources or alternatively, proportionately less resources for existing open space holdings. The neighboring property owners and residents should be contacted to inform them of this offer of dedication. Should the lots be accepted for public open space, open space access signs may be posted, which could increase usage and parking at the terminus of Greenwood Avenue. The Parks & Recreation Commission should review the offer and provide a recommendation to the City Council. FISCAL IMPACT: The offer of land dedication and property transfer tasks would be of no cost to the City. However, with this action, the City would accept the legal liability and maintenance responsibilities for these lots. At this time, it is uncertain what, or if, there would be a longer-term fiscal impact on the City. SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 5 OPTIONS: The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter: 1. Accept the report and direct staff to schedule this matter for review and action at an upcoming meeting; or 2. Direct staff to return with more information. RECOMMENDED ACTION: Accept report and direct staff to schedule this matter for review and action at an upcoming meeting. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Maps of vicinity, subject lots and Oakwood Subdivision 2. Letter to City of San Rafael from MOST summarizing offer of dedication; July 20, 2016 ATTACHMENT Greenwood Avenue Lots Vicinity Map, Aerial Photo of Lots, Oakwood Subdivision Map, Assessor's Parcel Map t • Ji I ung p it � c m t• � d/��"�''tP � � !� - i9 - �II�® ' NHLs ,I MIS I WOOD i Le eo` eY iIry 7 r + _ S$ • I e - o ue�� IIYyp _ t� rn I� pA& M IL j I - ' 3 I s I rvoY .dL,� � '� r i' = l' •.-,.� I � i o �d 4��x 30 r .. 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ATTACHMENT Letter to City of San Rafael from Marin Open Space Trust Board Members Bill Long, Chair David Hansen, Vice Chair Ralph Mihan, Secretary Ann Thomas, Treasurer Joyce Applen, Member Jonathan Braun, Member Don Dickenson, Member MOST Marin Open Space Trust James Schutz, City Manager, City of San Rafael RECEIVED JUL 2 12!016 July 20, 2016 The Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) had been contacted to assist in the acquisition of two undeveloped lots at the end of Greenwood Ave, referred to as the Makin Grade lots, in San Rafael. The MOST Board authorized the entering into an Offer to Purchase for $399,000 the two lots from the seller (Lee) and deposited $20,000 to secure the offer. The offer expires 90 days from July 7. The funding for the acquisition is from a neighborhood source and MOST is picking up the related acquisition costs. MOST desires to transfer the lots to the City, free of any costs, at the close of escrow, to add to The City's adjoining existing Open Space. ADVISORY COMLICIL Al Boro Al Baumann Barry Spitz Connie Berto Dan Rheiner Dennis Scremin Douglas Ferguson Fran Brigmann Gail Wilhelm Gary Giacomini Jared Huffman Jean Starkweather Jeff Saperstein 7red Ranter Samaria Jaffee John Leonard John Leydecker Ron Miska Liza Crosse Karen Wilson L. Martin Griffin Leland Jordan Linda Novy Michael Dybeck Mimi Nelaton Patty Garbarino Sharon McNamee Susan Ives Susan Stompe George Brewster Tom Forster Terry Toner ideally MOST would like to have title transfer to the City in a three party closing of escrow. MOST has done that with the Marin County Open Space District for the acquisition of the Pacheco Meadows addition to the Loma Verde Open Space Preserve. Title passed directly from the private seller to the County while MOST deposited the purchase price into the escrow. MOST looks forward to a timely acceptance of title by the City to the lots. Please advise if there is anything further that MOST needs to do to complete this transaction. Bill Long, Board Ch cc Ralph Mihan, Board Secretary Don Dickerson, Board Member www.maminopenspa.cetrust.org 415-884 2270 P.O. Box 4133 San Rafael, CA 94913 OPEN S.-PA0127f, San Raft-,,oO Open Space Addition Greenwood Ave/Makin Gcv d .- Lots I Obiectiveo At no acquisition cost to the City, acquire two undeveloped lots on Makin Grade to add to the contiguous San Rafael Open Space above Greenwood Avenue, providing neighborhood trail access to open space along the historic route of the San Rafael- Bolinas stagecoach line. The lots (3.11 acres) will be acquired by the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) and conveyed directly to the City at close of escrow as an addition to the existing City Open Space lands (30.35 acres). fl History of the sale of the lots: The lots were purchased by the present owner (Lee) in 1999 for $450,000. He sold the lots for $730,000 in 2006 just before the real estate market crash of 2008 but that sale resulted in a default and Lee took title back and put the lots back on the market again. With the lots on the market on and off for over 16 nears, the seller became very anxious to sell them and in June reduced the price to $399,000. With this recent reduction, the neighbors who have long sought to preserve the property's natural beauty, ecological values and historic resources decided that this opportunity should not be ignored. Realizing that the City was not in a position to purchase the land, the neighbors contacted MOST to assist in the acquisition. III. Prior neighborhood and citizen interest and activity. In 2010 the neighborhood and other City residents met a number of times to discuss how to retain public access along the old stagecoach route that runs through the lots, referred to as the Makin Grade trail, as well as the possible acquisition of the properties to enhance the existing open space. The neighbors approached the City and were advised that the Makin Grade Trail was under private ownership per Paul Felton's Oakwood Subdivision Agreement and the City did not have the money to purchase the lots. IV Status Now: MOST has entered into a contract to purchase with the present owner (Lee), the purchase to be completed within 90 dans from the execution (July 7) of the contract to purchase. MOST intends to transfer title to the City at the closing of escrow. V. Source of Funding: Gerstle Park neighbors have provided the initial deposit of $20,000 to secure the right to purchase and have committed to the funding of the purchase price of $399,000. MOST has agreed to cover the transaction costs related to the acquisition. VO . Reasons for seeking to preserve the land: a. It is directly contiguous to adjacent existing 30.38 acres of City Open Space Lands. (See attached map) b. It is a logical addition to existing City Open Space at no acquisition cost to the City. This would be in accord with City's 2020 General Plan (See V below) c. It will preserve the land for public use. The land contains portions of a very frequently used trail (Historic Makin Grade) that is directly linked to the existing City Open Space trail network. The trail network is used extensively by neighbors and other City residents enjoying the City Open Space lands and Gerstle Park itself. (See attached map.) d. It will preserve the wildlife activities both on the property and on the adjacent existing open space and biological reserves. Wildlife observed in the area include spotted owl, gray fox, coyote, bobcat, deer, pileated woodpecker, winter wren, Wilson and orange crowned warblers, red -shouldered hawk and numerous other species. e. It will prevent disruptions that would otherwise occur. The property is steeply sloped and any construction would be extremely disruptive to the natural terrain, cause severe degradation of the existing flora and disruption of the abundant fauna living on or foraging on the lots. Acquisition would preserve a pristine natural canyon including an ephemeral stream natural watercourse. Vi0 City 2020 General Plan The San Rafael 2020 General Plan in subsection OS -1b Preservation Opportunities provides in pertinent part: ".... Encourage the dedication of open space areas that are adjacent to public open space. Possibilities also include acquisition of fee title or acquiring easements for preserving open space....." (The complete subsection is attached.) VM Pub is Utilities Makin Grade Trail contains existing public sewer lines and a storm drain culvert and storm drain pipes linked to Greenwood Ave pipes and storm drains. IX History The two lots are an integral part of the historic Makin Grade Stagecoach Road that once ran from San Rafael to the town of Bolinas. The stagecoach road was established about 1878. From Bolinas it made its way over many ridges and eventually through what is now the town of Ross. It then ran along a portion of present day Laurel Grove Ave then across the Makin property.* From there it wound up Makin Grade Road in Ross (now a street in Ross) and then across Upper Toyon and down what is the present last remnant of the unpaved Makin Grade Stagecoach Road (now a hiking trail) to Greenwood Avenue. (On Greenwood it passed what was at one time the Bowen & Goert San Rafael Brewery. **) The stagecoach road then followed along portions of what are now Madera, Clorinda, Reservoir, and Ross St, then up D Street to stables near San Rafael's main street, 4t" Street. NOTE: As Makin Grade Road comes down from the ridge it crosses the two lots that are the subject of this acquisition. * The Makin Family, the granddaughter of the famed James Ross, pioneer of the Ross Valley, gave permission for the stagecoach road to cross their land. Hence the name Makin Grade was given to the stagecoach road. ** See attached map of 1878 showing the location of the brewery. San Rafael 2020 General Plan OS -1b. Preservation Opportunities. Through the development review process, preserve open space areas identified on the Open Space Inventory. Encouraqe the dedication of open space areas that are adjacent to public open space. Possibilities also include acquisition of fee title or acquiring easements for preservinq open space. When potential open space is not contiguous to existing public open space, the preference is to retain the open space in private ownership_ When portions of a site are retained as private open space, ensure the preservation and management of that open space through appropriate means, including required maintenance, as determined though development review. Work with other public and non-profit agencies to identify sources for acquisition and maintenance of open space. Responsibility: Community Development, Public Works, City Manager Timeframe: Ongoing Resources: Fees, Grants, Donations, Bonds ti LL. LL. ROUTING SLIP / APPROVAL FORM INSTRUCTIONS: Use this cover sheet with each submittal of a staff report before approval by the City Council. Save staff report (including this cover sheet) along with all related attachments in the Team Drive (T:) --> CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEMS 4 AGENDA ITEM APPROVAL PROCESS 4 [DEPT - AGENDA TOPIC] Agenda Item # Date of Meeting: Click here to enter a date. From: Paul Jensen/Carlene McCart Department: Community Development/Community Services Date: 8/24/2016 Topic: Marin Open Space Trust Offer of Land Dedication Subject: Greenwood Avenue Lots- Offer of Land Dedication to City for Open Space Type: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Professional Services Agreement ❑ Other: Staff Report APPROVALS ® Finance Director Remarks: MM approved 8/24/16 ® City Attorney Remarks: LG -Approved 8/24/16. ® Author, review and accept City Attorney / Finance changes Remarks: Finalized report; PJensen 8/30/16 ® City Manager Remarks: Mayor Phillips Councilmembers City of San Rafael Paul Jensen, Director, Department of Community Development City of San Rafael Bcc: Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Board, Marin Open Space Trust August 30, 2016 Dear Mayor Phillips, Councilmembers, and Paul Jensen, The Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Board voted unanimously on August 18, 2016 to endorse the City's acquisition of the new Gerstle Park Open Space acreage that has been offered by the Marin Open Space Trust to the people of San Rafael at no expense to the City. Resolved: The Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association endorses the acquisition of the 3.1 acres of land donated to the City of San Rafael by the Marin Open Space Trust. The land is located where the trail meets the Greenwood cul-de-sac, adjacent to dee San Rafael open space. The proposed 3.1 acres would preserve a significant part of the Makin Grade, the last unpaved portion of the historic Bolinas Stage Coach Trail, which once ran from San Rafael to Bolinas. The Gerstle Park Open Space area is a treasured neighborhood resource, providing hiking, running and dog -walking trails, bird watching, and an unfettered natural setting in our neighborhood. The proposed donation of land allows greater public access, the preservation of an historic trail, and greater safetyfor our neighborhood. The mission of our organization states, " The purpose of the Gerstle Park Neighborhood (GPNA) is to draw a wide diversity of people to work together and partner with our community and local government to enhance and protect the character and livability of our neighborhood. " The GPNA's first goal for 2016 reads, Parks - Support and facilitate improvements in Albert and Gerstle Parks, the Open Spaces and Mahon Creek. Our neighborhood association's mission and goals underline the importance of this treasured public land. Our residents value the natural setting of the Open Space land and accessibility to its trails is key. We consider the offer by the Marin Open Space (MOST) timely, generous and urgent. The GPNA Board urges you to vote in favor of acquiring the land as offered by MOST. What an excellent opportunity to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhood, and the city at large! Generations of residents of San Rafael will enjoy this historic and beautiful trail because of your "Yes" votes on October 3rd. Yours truly, Amy Likover , President, Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Name: Pam and Leonard Patterson Submitted: 2016-08-25 16:30:01 UTC Message: We live just below the trail at the end of the cul du sac of Redwood Dr. Having walked this nearby and wonderful trail many times, and knowing first-hand how others enjoy it, we support the acquisition of the Trail by the City of San Rafael to keep it as open space. Name: James W. Schmidt Submitted: 2016-08-28 18:53:01 UTC Message: TO THE FULL SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL: This message is to strongly urge the City of San Rafael Council to act affirmatively and accept the Marin Open Space Trust gift of monies and to acquire/preserve approximately 3 acres of additional open space protecting the historic Make Grade Trail between the end of Greenwood Avenue and Upper Toyan Rd. This small parcel is part of a priceless, wonderful walking trail that interconnects existing open space lands above Gerstle Park and upper Clorinda Road. Name: Tom Heinz Submitted: 2016-08-29 20:19:10 UTC Message: Dear City Council of San Rafael, I am writing to ask you to accept the gift of 3.1 acres of the old Bolinas stage trail near Greenwood. We just recently moved to San Rafael and love it's walkable size and character. We discovered this trail while poking around our neighborhood. We would really love it to become permanent as open space in San Rafael. Sincerely, Tom Heinz and Denise Van Horn Name: D Anna Rogers Submitted: 2016-08-29 23:22:20 UTC Message: Do let this purchase of the important and historic trail be accepted by the City. We will raise the money! Name: Joanne Ritter Submitted: 2016-08-30 17:46:10 UTC Message: Being able to hike in nature right from my neighborhood is one of the very best things about living here. Accept the gift! Esther Beirne From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Attachments: Mayor Phillips Councilmembers City of San Rafael Amy Likover <alikover@aol.com> Tuesday, August 30, 2016 5:34 PM Gary Phillips; Paul Jensen; Kate Colin; andrew.mccullough@cityofsanrafael.com; John Gamblin; maribeth@maribeth4sanrafael.org; Paul Jensen Esther Beirne GPNA Endorses Makin Grade Parcel, Open Space GPNA_toSanRafael MakinGradeTrail.pdf Gerstle Park Nei&orhood Association PO Box 150644, San Rafael, CA 94915-0644 Paul Jensen, Director, Department of Community Development City of San Rafael Bcc: Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Board, Marin Open Space Trust August 30, 2016 Dear Mayor Phillips, Councilmembers, and Paul Jensen, The Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Board voted unanimously on August 18, 2016 to endorse the City's acquisition of the new Gerstle Park Open Space acreage that has been offered by the Marin Open Space Trust to the people of San Rafael at no expense to the City. Resolved: The Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association endorses the acquisition of the 3.1 acres of land donated to the City of San Rafael by the Marin Open Space Trust. The land is located where the trail meets the Greenwood cul-de-sac, adjacent to the San Rafael open space. The proposed 3.1 acres would preserve a significant part of the Makin Grade, the last cmpaved portion of the historic Bolinas Stage Coach Trail, which once ran from San Rafael to Bolinas. The Gerstle Park Open Space area is a treasured neighborhood resource, providing hiking, running and dog -walking trails, bird watching, and an unfettered natural setting in our neighborhood. The proposed donation of land allows greater public access, the preservation of an historic trail, and greater safety for our neighborhood. The mission of our organization states, " The purpose of the Gerstle Park Neighborhood (GPNA) is to draw a wide diversity of people to work together and partner with our community and local government to enhance and protect the character and livability of our neighborhood. " The GPNA's first goal for 2016 reads, Parks - Support and facilitate improvements in Albert and Gerstle Parks, the Open Spaces and Mahon Creek. Our neighborhood association's mission and goals underline the importance of this treasured public land. Our residents value the natural setting of the Open Space land and accessibility to its trails is key. We consider the offer by the Marin Open Space (MOST) timely, generous and urgent. The GPNA Board urges you to vote in favor of acquiring the land as offered by MOST. What an excellent opportunity to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhood, and the city at large! Generations of residents of San Rafael will enjoy this historic and beautiful trail because of your "Yes" votes on October 3rd. Yours truly, Amy Likover President, Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING GREENWOOD AVENUE OFFER OF DEDICATION RECEIVED ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 AND 2, 2016 Please do everything you can to maintain the Greenwood access to the Makin Grade trail. I purchased a home near the trail 8 years ago because it is a wonderful area for kids and dogs! I'm sure that this trail improves property values in Gerstle Park and brings many hikers and dogs to a beautiful part of San Rafael. Btw, I appreciate the improvement in police presence around 4th Street!! Carol Abrahams 7 Redwood Dr, San Rafael 2. Dear Mr. Jensen, I have lived in the Gerstle Park area for 15 years now going for a walk nearly every day. The Makin Grade Trail is an integral part of my routine. I understand the the City of San Rafael has the opportunity of making the Makin Grade Trail a permanent open space, available to the public, in perpetuity. This trail is historically significant and continues to have importance and give pleasure to many people on a daily basis. This is an excellent opportunity for the City of San Rafael to step forward and preserve this trail, continuing to enhancing the quality of life for all of us who live here. I sincerely hope that you will give your support to ensure that Makin Grade Trail will continue to be open to the general public. With thanks for your attention in reading this email. Yo u rs, Adina Beaumont 10 Elford Street, San Rafael, Ca. 94901 3. Please... You must save this trail for open space, hiking, it has historical significance etc.! My husband was born and raised in San Rafael and I've been here 38 years and this is a precious part of our community! I understand some of our neighbors want to purchase it to save it and this must be the final solution!!!! Do not let it become a private driveway as we cannot afford to lose this forever. This is a forever decision. Sincerely, Caryn Papiro, G. Park, S.R. L Dear Paul Jensen: I have owned a home in Gerstle Park for over 25 years quid have enjoyed the use of the Maken Gracie Trail as well as other Open Space trails from Clark to D Street. Not only for us humans but this trail is import rit to wild life. I leave been enjoying the (leer and other animals who come through my property on a dal'1v basis. Regards, Thomas Buttrier 5 Clark Street San Rafael, CA 91,901 5. Good morning, Jim and Paul: I understand that on September 6th the City Council will be discussing the donation of two lots abutting the Greenwood Open Space Preserve that will ensure the preservation of a portion of the historic Makin Grade and enhance access to the aforementioned Open Space. This is an opportunity not to be missed since the donation will be made by neighboring property owners to the City and is to be implemented with the assistance of the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) which will bear all the closing costs associated with the property transfer and donation. I , for one, believe that this proposed donation of lands that results in a modest extension of existing Public Open Space Lands is clearly in the public interest. It will be accomplished at no cost to the City of San Rafael , and , therefore, I urge that the City of San Rafael accept and expedite this donation. Sincerely, Roger Roberts 223 Southern Heights Blvd. San Rafael, Calif. 949901 Tel: (415) 457-7450 6. Dear Jim, I hike the Makin Grade Trail every morning with my husband and two friends. We feel so lucky to have that open space within a short walk from our house (we live on C Street). On our daily walk we meet many people that we have come to know and chat with. We have just learned the historical nature of the path from talking to our neighbors. The trail is a very important piece of open space in the middle of the city. We hope San Rafael will keep the Makin Grade Trail open for public use, it would be a great shame to lose this fabulous asset. Sincerely, Fran Halperin, Fran Halperin Halperin & Christ, Inc. w(Whalperinandchrist.com www.halperinandchrist.con, 415-457-9185 2 7. Paul and the City Council As many of you know, we brought the old Brewmeister's home of the San Rafael Brewery here at 119 Greenwood Avenue back to life. The old Makin Grade was alive and well as a stagecoach road to Ross and Bolinas in brewery times ... and likely a stage stop here after a long, dusty day on the trail. It is important to keep the Grade open as a part of the great hiking trail system here in San Rafael and we encourage Paul and the Staff to work with the Council to approve this opportunity to clarify ownership of the Grade. It appears to us that the transfer of the ROW to the subdivision was inadvertent or ill advised and have not found a paper trail that shows the City followed proper notice and procedure in converting this public property into private hands. This is the perfect opportunity to clarify public use of the Grade and tie it into the adjacent open space. Thank you for your efforts to approve this acquisition. Ron Moore and Christie Nelson 119 Greenwood Avenue 415/460-1717 cell 707/332-0882 8. It has come to my attention the Makin Grade Trail at the end of Greenwood Ave is being consider for possible development. I understand there have been private donations made to purchase the land and donate it to the city to ensure it remains undeveloped open space for years to come. I heard the city is resisting the donation so I thought I would take the time to help those in the city better understand how this small patch of land has united a community. I moved into my home at 138 Greenwood Ave 15 years ago. Shortly after my arrival I was introduced to this wonderful trail at the end of Greenwood Ave better know as Makin Grade Trail. Over the years the trail has grow in popularity with dog walkers, elderly and families. It's been amazing to see how this small patch of land turned I turned into a community center of sorts. It's united the neighbors in a way not often seen in recent times. Often while in my yard I'll observe familiar faces of groups heading up the the trail. I'd swear it gets more traffic than Gerstle Park! I wish there was a better way to convey the importance of this trail to the community. If you were to install a camera or two for a week I think you'd get an better idea. Hopefully you'll see a way to break through the red tape and help these lots get converted to open space and preserve the trail for generations to come. Thanks, Thomas Hogan 138 Greenwood Ave San Rafael 415-515-9018 3 9. Dear Mr. Jensen, I am writing as the owner of 148 Greenwood Avenue in Gerstle Park to let you know of the importance of keeping Makin Grade Trail open for public use. This is a neighborhood trail that many people use as a gathering place, recreational hiking area and dog walking. It is also part of a historic area. This trail is linked to open space and provides a safe passage way to hiking the other trails. Please do everything you can to protect Makin Grade Trail. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Jenai Lane 10. Dear Mr Schutz, I am writing you to implore you to keep our hiking trail open along the old stagecoach route which is now called Makin Grade. I have been hiking there for the past 26 years, since I first moved to Gerstle Park. The trail is only 10 minutes from my home on Ross Street, and it has provided countless hours of relaxation and exercise and sometimes socializing with my friends who also hike the trail. It is a treasure which we are so fortunate to have out our back doors, and it is enjoyed by a great number of people in this neighborhood, and occasionally their dogs as well. We all take great pride in this trail and various people have volunteered to keep it properly maintained, such as Hugo Landecker, my neighbor Mitch, and an elderly gentleman named Rene'. If this trail is closed due to someone's private driveway being constructed, I will have to get in my car and drive elsewhere to find an equally lovely and accessible trail. If the money is available to set this aside as open space, this seems like a no-brainer. There are many people who use this trail for fitness, a quiet respite, and a restorative communing with nature; you probably won't receive emails from all of them but I can vouch that the trail is much used and loved by our neighborhood residents. Please help us save our trail!! Sincerely, Cynthia F Cushman 11. From: Deborah Lennon mailto:deborahmspt@gmail.com] Please keep this area open for public use. As you know one of the reasons Marin/ San Rafael is so popular is the easy access to walking and hiking trails. As the populated areas are increasing and the traffic becoming almost unbearable we need these areas more than ever. This particular 4 area allows my dog and I an area of respite without having to get in my car and driving somewhere. There must be someway to keep open space available for our community Sincerely Deborah Lennon Resident of Grestle Park for 30 years 12. From: Land Wilson fmailto:sservices(aIDacbell.netI Dear Jim and Paul, I am a San Rafael resident living in the Spring Grove Canyon. I grew up in San Rafael and came back here in 2004 to raise my family. I am emailing you to voice my support for protecting Gerstle Park's Makin Grade Trail and Open Space. I use the San Rafael City Open Spaces in my canyon and the Gerstle Park canyon almost daily. I am a children's author and I have a routine of walking and writing. For the past 14 months I've been writing a middle grade book specifically about the wildlife that inhabits the forested areas of both Spring Grove and Gerstle Park. Coincidentally, I am working with a coalition of other residents, the town of Ross, and Marin Open Space Land Trust to preserve a nearby 10 acre section of the ridge not far from the Makin Grade Trail and Open Space (404 and 444 Upper Toyon). This land was annexed out of San Rafael into Ross in 2007 by the current owner for development. As of yesterday, I have learned from the owner that development plans are not going to happen because it has been documented that these forests are home to an endangered owl species. One of the things that makes Marin such an incredible place to live and/or recreate is that over the past century, people have stood together to protect our natural open space areas. I implore you to support protecting the historic Makin Grade Trail and open space area. If you would like to discuss any details about the wildlife in these areas that I have come to know and love, I welcome your calls. Sincerely, Land Wilson 415-309-3035 13. Hello Mr. Jensen, Our family has enjoyed the Makin Grade Trail for over 20 years and have spotted both bobcats and coyotes on it. It's a neighborhood treasure and should be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. Your help in making this happen would be greatly appreciated. Kathy & Dan Slane 50 Knoll Road San Rafael, CA 5 14. 1 am writing to strongly endorse the acquisition of the two vacant lots at the end of Greenwood Avenue, at no cost to the city. These properties are very challenging and unsuitable for development due to their steep hillside configuration. Conversely, they are wonderfully suited to becoming a permanent part of the adjacent existing Open Space. As a frequent user of the historic Makin Grade trail, which traverses the border of these lots, I have personally observed it to be a vital wildlife corridor for most of our native species, including the endangered Northern Spotted Owl, and neighbors have even spotted a mountain lion every few years or so. The trail is maintained by neighbors in terms of clearing brush and annually cutting down long grasses adjacent to the trail, reducing fire hazards. The trail is already well known to the neighborhoods, and the posting of signs designating the entry should not appreciably increase traffic. The existing open space does not receive any maintenance (to our knowledge) from the city, and thus the addition of these two parcels should not add any maintenance costs to the City. Residents stay on the developed trail, so there should not be any significant liability from the property addition, as it is too steep for people to hike casually. This seems to be a tremendous win/win, allowing the City to protect a historic trail and add to existing open space with no acquisition cost. Please approve and accept these lots and augment the Open Space while we have the chance to preserve a few more acres from development, protect a beloved local walking trail, and help preserve habitat for San Rafael's wild residents. Sincerely, Susanne Lyons Resident of Upper Toyon (adjacent to Open Space) President of the Board, WildCare 415-269-2442 is. Email Address namelasorrells(@vahoo.com Send To CommunityServices ■ Please enter your questions/comments below Save the greenwood trail!! We have lost so much history, particularly in San Rafael. We need to hold onto a trail used by so many and with such historical relevance. I urge you to demand Marin County take on the responsibility of the 3.1 acres of property to protect the Greenwood Trail from development. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2016 1. Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident Hi Paul, I am a long time resident of San Rafael, I remember when the Montecito Shopping Center was a yacht harbor and I remember the beautiful old court house on Fourth Street. A lot has changed over the years in San Rafael, some are not to my liking, but others have been an improvement like the revitalization of Fourth Street and the creation of city owned open space around Gerstle Park. The City of San Rafael has a rare opportunity to obtain property that includes part of the Makin Grade Trail. This trail is a vital link to access existing City of San Rafael open space and provides residents the opportunity to enjoy this historic area. I am one of the many people that use this trail on a daily basis and it would be a tragedy for San Rafael to lose this resource. I encourage you and the City Council to approve the acquisition of these two lots. Sincerely Dr. Donald Guttman * Please enter your questions/comments below Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident 4. This letter is a request that the commission accept the offer of 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue. If the property is allowed to be developed the neighborhood of Gerstle Park will be permenantly cut off from accessing the existing 30 acre open space above. We, the citizens of San Rafael, will lose the very historic stagecoach road that many believed to be part of the open space for many years. Please approve the addition of this small parcel to the city's open space. Leslie Simons 7 5. Hi Guys, We just moved up to Clorinda and find that the area doesn't have quite the walking paths/loops that some of other places in Marin/San Rafael have, considering it's also a fairly dense population group in the area (although quite a fun one), it would be great to persist a walking loop by joining the open space up in that area together. I would also assume if the loop doesn't exist, that there's a potential for usage of the remaining land to decrease and potentially be more of a liability to the city as it would get (I think) a lot less usage at that point from residents. I hope you can definitely consider the proposal to include the parcels in an open space strategy, although new to the area, we've already started walking the loop :) Thanks, Robyn Battle 333 Clorinda Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR — SEPTEMBER 13, 2016 1. Please help us preserve access to our wonderful Open Space by protecting forever the historic and beautiful trail on Greenwood. The historical significance, the sense of community and camaraderie it fosters In this lovely outdoor space, the easy access for both our human and canine residents, and the protection of this parcel from future development will have a huge impact on our neighborhood and the city now and forever. Many of us use the trail on a daily basis and the privilege of having access to nature so close by is something we all treasure and appreciate as one of the great benefits of living here. That someone is willing to buy the land to preserve it is truly a wonderful gift and a special opportunity for all of us. . We sincerely hope you will accept this generous offer. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Makin Grade Trail - please keep this trail open for public use and available to hikers. It is a beautiful trail and part of San Rafael history. Please do not sell it to developers who will take the trail away. Sherry Jacobs Regarding saving Makin Grade Trail: I am a 100% supporter of efforts to save the historic Makin Grade Trail -- the old stagecoach trail which now extends through private property from Greenwood to the ridge top of Makin Grade and Upper Toyan! I use the trail weekly, a connector to several existing loop trails up to the ridge line, through Gerstle Park and even extending beyond Wolfe Grade. I beg the City of San Rafael to purchase this land and add it to the existing Open Space preserved land, for current and future residents of our fine community. It would be tragic if the City cannot step up and honor its responsibility to preserve this beautiful and secluded (short) stretch of our shared history -- which otherwise will be lost to future generations as private ownership will surely result in its demise. I'm sure that resources can be mustered for the relatively easy maintenance that this trail will require, and count me in if the City needs local citizenry to help with maintenance! Kark Weigl 3. Please approve the acquisition of the Open space access on Greenwood Ave! This trail is used all day every day by many appreciative residents of Gerstle Park and San Rafael. The trail requires very little maintenance and I believe the value of maintaining this green space is well worth the benefits to the city of San Rafael. Carol abrahams Dear Council and Park & Recreation Commission. For the past 25 years, I have been living in and enjoying the trails and nature that make Gerstle Park such a wonderful place to live and hike. Please vote Yes to acquire the Makin Grade Trail. Thank You. Thomas Buttner 5 Clark Street San Rafael, CA We are urging the City to accept the gift of 3.1 acres of open space at the end of Greenwood Avenue. Keeping trail access to existing open space makes sense, and keeping our history makes even more sense. Vicki and David Sievers San Rafael residents since 1980 Please accept the gift of the 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue! Keeping trail access to existing open space makes sense, and keeping our history makes even more sense. Thank you from a local Marinite and avid hiker. Sophie Fleming I am unable to attend the Thursday hearing on the potential addition of 3.1 acres on the Makin grade to city open space in Gerstle Park, so I would like to share my comments on the proposal via email. The parcels the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) is in the process of acquiring are currently being used as open space though they have not been formally designated. These parcels would be adjacent to existing open space areas on the hillside. The loss of the parcels as open space would block public access to existing open space areas, and cut off a widely enjoyed trail route in the neighborhood. In addition, the parcels would improve the existing open space's value for wildlife by increasing the area of connected habitat on the ridge. A "Wildlife corridor" is a habitat linkage that joins two or more areas of wildlife habitat, allowing for movement from one area to another. It is state policy in California (AB 498, signed in 2015) to promote wildlife corridors and encourage voluntary efforts to protect their functionality. The state bill (written by our Assemblyman, Marc Levine) describes how habitats critical to the state's natural diversity are in danger of being lose, and connectivity between wildlife habitats is vital to preserving biological diversity. The Upper Toyon area adjacent to the open space contains a nesting site of the federal and state threatened northern spotted owl. The US Fish and Wildlife Service map of northern spotted owl range extends from Washington state south to Marin County -- so this nesting pair is at the southern end of its range. The species is vulnerable to human disturbance and we are fortunate to have a nesting pair in the city. In addition to the spotted owl, San Rafael open space is used by bobcat, mule deer, coyote, gray fox, many species of migratory birds, wood rats and other small mammals that serve as prey to spotted owls. Maintaining the area of habitat open to these species increases the likelihood that they will continue to forage and make homes here. In accepting the wonderful gift of this open space from MOST, the City of San Rafael has an opportunity to combine preservation of a unique historic resource with preservation of an important link to existing open space for the benefit of people, the benefit of wildlife, and the benefit of our sense of history. Liza Wozniak 1ViAR�N ��� CONSERVATION LEAGUE September 13, 2016 San Rafael Parks and Recreation Commission c/o Carlene McCart, Community Services Director 618 B Street, San Rafael, CA 94901 By e-mail: carlene.mccart@cityofsanrafael.org Subject: Greenwood Avenue Lots — Offer of Dedication for Open Space Dear Chairperson Ralph Mihan: The purpose of this letter from Marin Conservation League is to support the recent offer of Dedication of two vacant lots at the end of Greenwood Avenue to the City of San Rafael for permanent open space. Marin Conservation League's Parks and Open Space Committee recently heard a presentation from representatives of Marin Open Space Trust, who are facilitating the dedication and transfer of ownership to the City. We have also reviewed the September 6, 2016 Council Agenda Report and visited the property. In light of this review, we believe that the City would miss an important opportunity if it turned down the generous offer. Since 1934, MCL has consistently led efforts throughout Marin to preserve open spaces and, in so doing, ensure that diverse natural habitats are protected and that community resources for the enjoyment of present and future residents are preserved. Over the years, an incomparable wealth of parklands and open spaces in the County has evolved. In many instances, this has resulted from the incremental addition of small, strategically located areas of land that have been acquired as circumstances permitted. The three -acre Greenwood Avenue property is not only strategically located contiguous to the existing Oakwood Open Space, but it also contains a segment of the historic Makin Grade and it provides useful trail connections between neighborhoods. Timing is important! Two residents have offered to meet the acquisition price, leaving no obligation to the City to raise additional funds. MCL understands why the City established a policy some years ago not to accept offers of land for permanent open space. However, this property presents compelling reasons to accept this offer. Notably, it meets many of the criteria for open 415.485 6257 incl@ marinconset Vafionleague.org 175 M. Redmod Dr., S 415.485.6259 marinconservationleague.ory San Rafael, CA 94903- Ci Morin Conservation League I September 13, 2016 Greenwood Avenue Lots -Offer of Dedication for Open Space space preservation outlined in the San Rafael General Plan 2020. These include, among others, preserving open space as wildlife habitat and as a visual asset for the community (Policy OS -1); encouraging open space areas that are adjacent to public open space (Policy OS -1b); protecting and preserving the natural value of open space while permitting it to serve as a community resource for enjoyment by residents of San Rafael (Policy OS -3); and encouraging provision of access to open space areas in the design of adjacent development (Policy OSA). MCL asks that the City fairly assess the limited liabilities inherent in adding these three acres to 30+ acres of existing contiguous open space. Furthermore, MCL encourages the City to move toward fulfilling the General Plan's goal of developing a management plan for the approximate 10,000+ acres of open space that it already owns (Policy OS -2a). In the meantime, MCL urges the City to accept this offer! Sincerely yours, Kate Powers President cc San Rafael City Council adv_pos_GreenwoodAve_Ded icationOffer_mcl_2016.09.13.pdf Hi Jim, Thanks for clearing that up. I will defiantly attend the meeting on the 6th. I look forward to being more involved in the community of San Rafael and doing my part. Thanks Tom On Sep 1, 2016, at 9:00 PM, Jim Schutz <Jiro.Schutz@citvofsanrafael.or,a> wrote: Hi Thomas - thanks so much for your thoughts. I am not sure you are receiving correct information. There is no resisting the donation and red tape. Instead, staff has put together a reasonable community-based process so that the City Council can make an informed decision. I invite you to their meeting of September 6th at 7pm (it is the second main item on the agenda so it will not start right away) so you can hear and participate in the discussion. Ultimately, they will make their decision at their meeting on October 3rd. Again, thanks for writing in and I'll make sure your thoughts are part of the record. Kind regards, Jim Sent via my Whone, please excuse brevity and typos. From: Thomas Hogan <hog, an.thomas@oLltlook.coill> Sent: Thursday, September 1, 2016 8:51 PM Subject: Makin Grade Trail To: Jim Schutz <iim.schutz@ cltvof�Anfafael.orQ> Hi Jim, It has come to my attention the Makin Grade Trail at the end of Greenwood Ave is being consider for possible development. I understand there have been private donations made to purchase the land and donate it to the city to ensure it remains undeveloped open space for years to come. I heard the city is resisting the donation so I thought I would take the time to help those in the city better understand how this small patch of land has united a community. I moved into my home at 138 Greenwood Ave 15years ago. Shortly after my arrival I was introduced to this wonderful trail at the end of Greenwood Ave better know as Makin Grade Trail. Over the years the trail has grow in popularity with dog walkers, elderly and families. It's been amazing to see how this small patch of land turned I turned into a community center of sorts. It's united the neighbors in a way not often seen in recent times. Often while in my yard I'll observe familiar faces of groups heading up the the trail. I'd swear it gets more traffic than Gerstle Park! I wish there was a better way to convey the importance of this trail to the community. If you were to install a camera or two for a week I think you'd get an better idea. Hopefully you'll see a way to break through the red tape and help these lots get converted to open space and preserve the trail for generations to come. Thanks, Thomas Hogan 138 Greenwood Ave San Rafael 415-515-9018 September 1, 2016 Mayor Gary Phillips City of San Rafael 1400 Fifth Avenue San Rafael, California 94901 RE: Makin Grade Open Space Addition Dear Mayor Phillips and Councilmembers: For a number of years, Tamra and I have been quietly working with our neighbors and Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) to keep the historic Makin Grade trail, and the steep natural terrain surrounding it, permanently open for public enjoyment. With a sudden drop in the price of the land and quick action by MOST, that goal can now be realized by the City's acceptance of MOST's no -cost gift of these 3.1 acres as an addition to the adjoining public open space. We urge your acceptance of the gift. The multiple benefits of this open space addition, and a bit of the history of the old San Rafael-Bolinas stagecoach route that once traversed it, are outlined in the attached flyer that we've been circulating in the neighborhood. As a sometimes birdwatcher, I can personally vouch for the mentioned presence of spotted owls— the only ones I've ever seen—and it gives me special satisfaction to also speak on their behalf, as valued fellow residents of my community. In fact, one of the deep pleasures of living where we do has been to watch people's steadily growing use and appreciation of the natural environment surrounding us and of which we are a part. This evolving connection with nature is particularly evident along the Makin Grade trail, and we ask that you support our community by accepting this important addition to the City's open space. Thank you. Sincerely, Bill Carney 166 Greenwood Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 Attachment September 1, 2016 Mayor Gary Phillips and Council Members City of San Rafael 1400 Fifth Avenue San Rafael, California 94901 RE: Makin Grade Open Space Addition Dear Mayor Phillips and Councilmembers: I'm writing to urge you to accept the addition of 3.1 acres to add to the City's existing open space that will also preserve the historic Makin Grade Stagecoach Road and provide access to the open space from Greenwood Avenue. I've attached a petition with 80 signatures of people who want this area preserved as open space too. The number of people signing the petition has grown steadily each day since we posted a single copy at the trailhead last week. The 80 signatures indicate how much use the trail receives and the high level of interest in protecting it. The people signing the petition are from streets throughout Gerstle Park and beyond, showing that this particular trail is a critical part of the overall open space and trail system serving an extensive area of our city. Bill and I have lived here for 1S years and walking along this historic trail and through this beautiful natural area is an important daily ritual in our lives, as it is for so many of our neighbors. Over this time, we have delighted to watch children, who first see the area riding on their parents' backs, now walk with them asking questions and exploring the magic of nature they observe along the trail. We hope that you'll make that experience a lasting one for the community by accepting this gift of open space. Sincerely, Tamra Peters 166 Greenwood Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 Attachment - petition STEVEN SCHOONOVER Attorney at Law September 1, 2016 Gary Philips - Mayor Jim Schutz — City Manager Paul Jensen — Director of Community Development City of San Rafael 1400 Fifth Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 Re: Makin Grade public easement Dear Messrs. Philips, Schutz and Jensen: There is apparently a matter that is to be placed on the City Council's September 6, 2016 agenda concerning the Makin Grade easement, currently a hiking trail. I use it regularly and have done so for decades. I understand that the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) is considering purchasing the land, and that MOST would like to donate the land to the city. Around 2010 there was neighborhood concern that the Makin Grade easement was going to fall into private hands, motivating me to do some research to obtain historical information regarding the property. I learned that Makin Grade was in 1876 granted to the County of Marin as a sixty -foot -wide public right-of-way. San Rafael subsequently annexed the land and assumed ownership of the right-of-way. Unless the right-of-way was properly vacated, it remains a public easement available for public use. I conducted an extensive search through City and County records and was unable to locate any evidence that the public right-of-way known as Makin Grade was ever legally abandoned. If the public right-of-way was never legally relinquished, the City of San Rafael retains the easement for public use, including pedestrian use. If you have evidence to the contrary, please share it with the public. Upon request, I am happy to share with you the results of my research. Sincerely, St§n Schoon ver - SS/mm Mail: 1537 Fourth Street PMB 164 Office: 4302 Redwood Hwy, Suite 100 San Rafael, CA 94901 San Rafael, CA 94903 RECEIVED ED Telephone: 415.456.3036 E-mail: schoonoverlaw@gmail.com ��P 01 2016 PLANNING CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING GREENWOOD AVENUE OFFER OF DEDICATION RECEIVED ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 AND 2, 2016 Please do everything you can to maintain the Greenwood access to the Makin Grade trail. I purchased a home near the trail 8 years ago because it is a wonderful area for kids and dogs! I'm sure that this trail improves property values in Gerstle Park and brings many hikers and dogs to a beautiful part of San Rafael. Btw, I appreciate the improvement in police presence around 4th Street!! Carol Abrahams 7 Redwood Dr, San Rafael 2. Dear Mr. Jensen, I have lived in the Gerstle Park area for 15 years now going for a walk nearly every day. The Makin Grade Trail is an integral part of my routine. I understand the the City of San Rafael has the opportunity of making the Makin Grade Trail a permanent open space, available to the public, in perpetuity. This trail is historically significant and continues to have importance and give pleasure to many people on a daily basis. This is an excellent opportunity for the City of San Rafael to step forward and preserve this trail, continuing to enhancing the quality of life for all of us who live here. I sincerely hope that you will give your support to ensure that Makin Grade Trail will continue to be open to the general public. With thanks for your attention in reading this email. Yours, Adina Beaumont 10 Elford Street, San Rafael, Ca. 94901 3. Please... You must save this trail for open space, hiking, it has historical significance etc.! My husband was born and raised in San Rafael and I've been here 38 years and this is a precious part of our community! I understand some of our neighbors want to purchase it to save it and this must be the final solution!!!! Do not let it become a private driveway as we cannot afford to lose this forever. This is a forever decision. Sincerely, Caryn Papiro, G. Park, S.R. 1,. Dear Paul Jensen: I have owned a home in Gerstle Park for over 25 years and have enjoyed the use of the Maken Gracie Ti pail as well as other Open Space trails from Clark to D Street. Not only for us humans but this 1 trail is importauit to wild life. I have been enjoying the (leer wid other animals who come through riiy property on a dally basis. Regards, Thomas Buttner 5 Clark Street San Rafael, CA 94901 5. Good morning, Jim and Paul: I understand that on September 6th the City Council will be discussing the donation of two lots abutting the Greenwood Open Space Preserve that will ensure the preservation of a portion of the historic Makin Grade and enhance access to the aforementioned Open Space. This is an opportunity not to be missed since the donation will be made by neighboring property owners to the City and is to be implemented with the assistance of the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) which will bear all the closing costs associated with the property transfer and donation. I , for one, believe that this proposed donation of lands that results in a modest extension of existing Public Open Space Lands is clearly in the public interest. It will be accomplished at no cost to the City of San Rafael , and , therefore, I urge that the City of San Rafael accept and expedite this donation. Sincerely, Roger Roberts 223 Southern Heights Blvd. San Rafael, Calif. 949901 Tel: (415) 457-7450 6. Dear Jim, I hike the Makin Grade Trail every morning with my husband and two friends. We feel so lucky to have that open space within a short walk from our house (we live on C Street). On our daily walk we meet many people that we have come to know and chat with. We have just learned the historical nature of the path from talking to our neighbors. The trail is a very important piece of open space in the middle of the city. We hope San Rafael will keep the Makin Grade Trail open for public use, it would be a great shame to lose this fabulous asset. Sincerely, Fran Halperin, Fran Halperin Halperin & Christ, Inc. fh@halperinandchrist.com www.halperinandchrist.com 415-457-9185 7. Paul and the City Council As many of you know, we brought the old Brewmeister's home of the San Rafael Brewery here at 119 Greenwood Avenue back to life. The old Makin Grade was alive and well as a stagecoach road to Ross and Bolinas in brewery times ... and likely a stage stop here after a long, dusty day on the trail. It is important to keep the Grade open as a part of the great hiking trail system here in San Rafael and we encourage Paul and the Staff to work with the Council to approve this opportunity to clarify ownership of the Grade. It appears to us that the transfer of the ROW to the subdivision was inadvertent or ill advised and have not found a paper trail that shows the City followed proper notice and procedure in converting this public property into private hands. This is the perfect opportunity to clarify public use of the Grade and tie it into the adjacent open space. Thank you for your efforts to approve this acquisition. Ron Moore and Christie Nelson 119 Greenwood Avenue 415/460-1717 cell 707/332-0882 8. It has come to my attention the Makin Grade Trail at the end of Greenwood Ave is being consider for possible development. I understand there have been private donations made to purchase the land and donate it to the city to ensure it remains undeveloped open space for years to come. I heard the city is resisting the donation so I thought I would take the time to help those in the city better understand how this small patch of land has united a community. I moved into my home at 138 Greenwood Ave 15 years ago. Shortly after my arrival I was introduced to this wonderful trail at the end of Greenwood Ave better know as Makin Grade Trail. Over the years the trail has grow in popularity with dog walkers, elderly and families. It's been amazing to see how this small patch of land turned I turned into a community center of sorts. It's united the neighbors in a way not often seen in recent times. Often while in my yard I'll observe familiar faces of groups heading up the the trail. I'd swear it gets more traffic than Gerstle Park! I wish there was a better way to convey the importance of this trail to the community. If you were to install a camera or two for a week I think you'd get an better idea. Hopefully you'll see a way to break through the red tape and help these lots get converted to open space and preserve the trail for generations to come. Thanks, Thomas Hogan 138 Greenwood Ave San Rafael 415-515-9018 s. Dear Mr. Jensen, I am writing as the owner of 148 Greenwood Avenue in Gerstle Park to let you know of the importance of keeping Makin Grade Trail open for public use. This is a neighborhood trail that many people use as a gathering place, recreational hiking area and dog walking. It is also part of a historic area. This trail is linked to open space and provides a safe passage way to hiking the other trails. Please do everything you can to protect Makin Grade Trail. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Jenai Lane 10. Dear Mr Schutz, am writing you to implore you to keep our hiking trail open along the old stagecoach route which is now called Makin Grade. I have been hiking there for the past 26 years, since I first moved to Gerstle Park. The trail is only 10 minutes from my home on Ross Street, and it has provided countless hours of relaxation and exercise and sometimes socializing with my friends who also hike the trail. It is a treasure which we are so fortunate to have out our back doors, and it is enjoyed by a great number of people in this neighborhood, and occasionally their dogs as well. We all take great pride in this trail and various people have volunteered to keep it properly maintained, such as Hugo Landecker, my neighbor Mitch, and an elderly gentleman named Rene'. If this trail is closed due to someone's private driveway being constructed, I will have to get in my car and drive elsewhere to find an equally lovely and accessible trail. If the money is available to set this aside as open space, this seems like a no-brainer. There are many people who use this trail for fitness, a quiet respite, and a restorative communing with nature; you probably won't receive emails from all of them but I can vouch that the trail is much used and loved by our neighborhood residents. Please help us save our trail!! Sincerely, Cynthia F Cushman 11. From: Deborah Lennon [mailto:deborahmspt@gmail.com] Please keep this area open for public use. As you know one of the reasons Marin/ San Rafael is so popular is the easy access to walking and hiking trails. As the populated areas are increasing and the traffic becoming almost unbearable we need these areas more than ever. This particular 4 area allows my dog and I an area of respite without having to get in my car and driving somewhere. There must be someway to keep open space available for our community Sincerely Deborah Lennon Resident of Grestle Park for 30 years 12. From: Land Wilson fmailto:sservicesC�oacbell.netI Dear Jim and Paul, I am a San Rafael resident living in the Spring Grove Canyon. I grew up in San Rafael and came back here in 2004 to raise my family. I am emailing you to voice my support for protecting Gerstle Park's Makin Grade Trail and Open Space. I use the San Rafael City Open Spaces in my canyon and the Gerstle Park canyon almost daily. I am a children's author and I have a routine of walking and writing. For the past 14 months I've been writing a middle grade book specifically about the wildlife that inhabits the forested areas of both Spring Grove and Gerstle Park. Coincidentally, I am working with a coalition of other residents, the town of Ross, and Marin Open Space Land Trust to preserve a nearby 10 acre section of the ridge not far from the Makin Grade Trail and Open Space (404 and 444 Upper Toyon). This land was annexed out of San Rafael into Ross in 2007 by the current owner for development. As of yesterday, I have learned from the owner that development plans are not going to happen because it has been documented that these forests are home to an endangered owl species. One of the things that makes Marin such an incredible place to live and/or recreate is that over the past century, people have stood together to protect our natural open space areas. I implore you to support protecting the historic Makin Grade Trail and open space area. If you would like to discuss any details about the wildlife in these areas that I have come to know and love, I welcome your calls. Sincerely, Land Wilson 415-309-3035 13. Hello Mr. Jensen, Our family has enjoyed the Makin Grade Trail for over 20 years and have spotted both bobcats and coyotes on it. It's a neighborhood treasure and should be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. Your help in making this happen would be greatly appreciated. Kathy & Dan Slane 50 Knoll Road San Rafael, CA 14. 1 am writing to strongly endorse the acquisition of the two vacant lots at the end of Greenwood Avenue, at no cost to the city. These properties are very challenging and unsuitable for development due to their steep hillside configuration. Conversely, they are wonderfully suited to becoming a permanent part of the adjacent existing Open Space. As a frequent user of the historic Makin Grade trail, which traverses the border of these lots, I have personally observed it to be a vital wildlife corridor for most of our native species, including the endangered Northern Spotted Owl, and neighbors have even spotted a mountain lion every few years or so. The trail is maintained by neighbors in terms of clearing brush and annually cutting down long grasses adjacent to the trail, reducing fire hazards. The trail is already well known to the neighborhoods, and the posting of signs designating the entry should not appreciably increase traffic. The existing open space does not receive any maintenance (to our knowledge) from the city, and thus the addition of these two parcels should not add any maintenance costs to the City. Residents stay on the developed trail, so there should not be any significant liability from the property addition, as it is too steep for people to hike casually. This seems to be a tremendous win/win, allowing the City to protect a historic trail and add to existing open space with no acquisition cost. Please approve and accept these lots and augment the Open Space while we have the chance to preserve a few more acres from development, protect a beloved local walking trail, and help preserve habitat for San Rafael's wild residents. Sincerely, Susanne Lyons Resident of Upper Toyon (adjacent to Open Space) President of the Board, WildCare 415-269-2442 15. Email Address pamelasorrellsC@yahoo.com Send To CommunityServices + Please enter your questions/comments below Save the greenwood trail!! We have lost so much history, particularly in San Rafael. We need to hold onto a trail used by so many and with such historical relevance. I urge you to demand Marin County take on the responsibility of the 3.1 acres of property to protect the Greenwood Trail from development. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2016 1. Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident Hi Paul, I am a long time resident of San Rafael, I remember when the Montecito Shopping Center was a yacht harbor and I remember the beautiful old court house on Fourth Street. A lot has changed over the years in San Rafael, some are not to my liking, but others have been an improvement like the revitalization of Fourth Street and the creation of city owned open space around Gerstle Park. The City of San Rafael has a rare opportunity to obtain property that includes part of the Makin Grade Trail. This trail is a vital link to access existing City of San Rafael open space and provides residents the opportunity to enjoy this historic area. I am one of the many people that use this trail on a daily basis and it would be a tragedy for San Rafael to lose this resource. I encourage you and the City Council to approve the acquisition of these two lots. Sincerely Dr. Donald Guttman * Please enter your questions/comments below Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident 4. This letter is a request that the commission accept the offer of 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue. If the property is allowed to be developed the neighborhood of Gerstle Park will be permenantly cut off from accessing the existing 30 acre open space above. We, the citizens of San Rafael, will lose the very historic stagecoach road that many believed to be part of the open space for many years. Please approve the addition of this small parcel to the city's open space. Leslie Simons 7 5. Hi Guys, We just moved up to Clorinda and find that the area doesn't have quite the walking paths/loops that some of other places in Marin/San Rafael have, considering it's also a fairly dense population group in the area (although quite a fun one), it would be great to persist a walking loop by joining the open space up in that area together. I would also assume if the loop doesn't exist, that there's a potential for usage of the remaining land to decrease and potentially be more of a liability to the city as it would get (I think) a lot less usage at that point from residents. I hope you can definitely consider the proposal to include the parcels in an open space strategy, although new to the area, we've already started walking the loop :) Thanks, Robyn Battle 333 Clorinda Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 0 Name: Megan McFeely Submitted: 2016-09-02 16:32:42 UTC Message: Dear Council Members, I would like to sincerely request that the city moves to support the continued availability of the Makin Grade Trail to the community. It is a beloved and much used trail where neighbors meet and enjoy the outdoors. Thank you. Name: Ken Homer Submitted: 2016-09-03 14:24:28 UTC Message: Dear Council Members, I am writing to you to urge you to please approve the addition of the two lots at the end of Greenwood ave to San Rafael's open space. I have lived in Gerstle Park for over 25 years and I walk up Greenwood and thence to Makin Grade regularly. As soon as you turn off Greenwood and begin to climb the hill you are in a little sanctuary of quiet and beauty. To lose access to this would be a great loss for the neighborhood and to future generations of walkers and hikers. Thanks to MOST and the generosity of concerned citizens, the land has been purchased and is ready to be donated to the City for preservation. It is difficult to think of reasons why the City Council would not approve this gift. I hope you will take the time to go and walk this trail and understand what is at stake and then to approve the gift. Thank you for your time and consideration Name: Leslie Simons Submitted: 2016-09-03 16:33:55 UTC Message: Please accept the gift of 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue as an addition to the open space above. If these properties are allowed to go into private hands the access to the open space above will be cut off from the valley below beginning with the Gerstle Park neighborhood. This is a very historic road that should be preserved. Name: Elizabeth Ridley Submitted: 2016-09-05 18:09:19 UTC Message: Dear Mayor and Council, I'd like to voice my support for the City's acquisition of the two lots at the end of Greenwood so that they can be preserved as open space for the community. My husband and I frequently use the trail and appreciate the access it provides to the historic Makin Grade Trail. I agree with the Staff Report that the acceptance of in fee title can have negative implications for the City, in this case, these implications seem negligible in comparison to the value to the community in maintaining this access. Thank you for your consideration. Name: Daniel Sonnet Submitted: 2016-09-06 03:40:25 UTC Message: Dear City Council, Please accept the gift of 3 acres of open space that includes the historic Makin Grade. The 3 acres seem contiguous to existing open space, so that the additional maintenance and liability associated with those acres would be minimal. This parcel has a colorful and noteworthy historical connection and would be a wonderful addition to San Rafael's open space. Of course acceptance would be the right thing to do. Thanks you for all you do for the city, Daniel Sonnet San Rafael September 1, 2016 SAN RAFAEL HERITAGE 9°°'q? 127 San Rafael Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, SAN RAFAEL HERITAGE, IN SUPPORT OF ACCEPTANCE OF AN OPEN SPACE DONATION FROM MARIN OPEN SPACE TRUST At the meeting of the Board of Directors of San Rafael Heritage on August 17, 2016, the following resolution was proposed and unanimously approved by a vote of the board: Resolved: WHEREAS the mission of San Rafael Heritage is to promote the preservation of San Rafael's historic and architecturally significant resources, and WHEREAS the City of San Rafael municipal code calls for "the protection, enhancement, perpetuation and use of...sites and areas that are reminders of past eras ... important in local ... history", and WHEREAS a significant part of Makin Grade, the last unpaved portion of the historic San Rafael-Bolinas stage route in San Rafael, could be preserved in perpetuity for the edification, enjoyment, and use of the citizens of San Rafael, therefore The San Rafael Heritage Board of Directors urges the San Rafael City Council to accept the generous gift to the City of San Rafael of 3.1 acres of open space at the end of Greenwood Avenue by Marin Open Space Trust, at no cost to the City. Cynthia Landecker President, San Rafael Heritage www.sanrafactheritage.org Member, National Trust for Historic Preservation 415 456-0221 Esther Beirne From: Paul Jensen Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 12:06 PM To: Hugo & Cynthia Landecker; Dan Fost Cc: Carlene McCart; Esther Beirne Subject: Re: Gerstle Park --Open Space, Saving Makin Grade Trail Hugo -I am not returning to the office until the 26th. Carlene McCart is finalizing the Council report so I am copying her. All correspondence should go to the City Clerk (copying Esther too). Paul Get Outlook for 10S On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 2:26 PM -0400, "Hugo & Cynthia Landecker" <clandecker@saber.net> wrote: Never too late. They will include all new info up to the last minute. You can send to Paul Jensen. Paul Jensen <Paul..lessen@citvoL-sanrafael.or«> Thanks, Hugo Landecker On Sep 15, 2016, at 9:55 AM, Dan Fost wrote:\\ Hugo Thanks for the update. I cannot attend tonight's meeting. Is it too late for letter writing? Who should I write to? best, Dan Dan Fost %r .danfost.coin C: 415-297-1910 On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 8:25 AM, Hugo & Cynthia Landecker <clandecker@saber. net> wrote: Good morning, Important Meeting Tonight I hope to see you tonight (Thursday) at the meeting of the San Rafael Park and Recreation Commission. From 7 to 8 PM they will have a public hearing regarding the City acquisition of 3.1 acres that includes part of the historic San Rafael to Bolinas Stage road. The most important thing to consider is that there will be no cost to the City. This is a win-win for the community and the City. It doesn't get any better than this. The Commission will make a decision on this important acquisition to the City Council and on Oct 3 the subject will again be heard before the City Council for a final decision. Another point that has not been discussed before is access to existing open space (adjacent to the 3.1 acres) by the Fire Department in case of need has not been mentioned. By not acquiring the land and assuming that at some time in the future that the lands will be developed with homes, the access will most likely be hindered by a gated access. We need your presence at this important hearing. San Rafael Park and Recreation Commission 1400 Fifth Avenue (City Hall) City Council Chambers 7 P Hugo Landecker I I' you no longer wish to receive " Gerstle Park --open space" emails, notify clandecker@saber.net with the words "Remove from Gerstle Park --open space emails" in the suhjcct line. r NIARIN ,,�,�/-r_ CONSERVATION LEAGUE September 13, 2016 San Rafael Parks and Recreation Commission c/o Carlene McCart, Community Services Director 618 B Street, San Rafael, CA 94901 By e-mail: carlene.mccart@cityofsanrafael.org Subject: Greenwood Avenue Lots — Offer of Dedication for Open Space Dear Chairperson Ralph Mihan: The purpose of this letter from Marin Conservation League is to support the recent offer of Dedication of two vacant lots at the end of Greenwood Avenue to the City of San Rafael for permanent open space. Marin Conservation League's Parks and Open Space Committee recently heard a presentation from representatives of Marin Open Space Trust, who are facilitating the dedication and transfer of ownership to the City. We have also reviewed the September 6, 2016 Council Agenda Report and visited the property. In light of this review, we believe that the City would miss an important opportunity if it turned down the generous offer. Since 1934, MCL has consistently led efforts throughout Marin to preserve open spaces and, in so doing, ensure that diverse natural habitats are protected and that community resources for the enjoyment of present and future residents are preserved. Over the years, an incomparable wealth of parklands and open spaces in the County has evolved. In many instances, this has resulted from the incremental addition of small, strategically located areas of land that have been acquired as circumstances permitted. The three -acre Greenwood Avenue property is not only strategically located contiguous to the existing Oakwood Open Space, but it also contains a segment of the historic Makin Grade and it provides useful trail connections between neighborhoods. Timing is important! Two residents have offered to meet the acquisition price, leaving no obligation to the City to raise additional funds. MCL understands why the City established a policy some years ago not to accept offers of land for permanent open space. However, this property presents compelling reasons to accept this offer. Notably, it meets many of the criteria for open 415.485 6257 415.485.6259 mcl@marinconservationleague.org marinconservaUonleague.oru 175 N. Redwood Dr., Ste 135 San Rafael, CA 94903-1977 45 ' ar.imConservafion ea gue as oun ed'im 1934 to preserve, pro ect an en ancelt, a natarg tarrise o arm oun . Marin Conservation League / September 13, 2016 Greenwood Avenue Lots -Offer of Dedication for Open Space space preservation outlined in the San Rafael General Plan 2020. These include, among others, preserving open space as wildlife habitat and as a visual asset for the community (Policy OS -1); encouraging open space areas that are adjacent to public open space (Policy 05-1b); protecting and preserving the natural value of open space while permitting it to serve as a community resource for enjoyment by residents of San Rafael (Policy OS -3); and encouraging provision of access to open space areas in the design of adjacent development (Policy OS -4). MCL asks that the City fairly assess the limited liabilities inherent in adding these three acres to 30+ acres of existing contiguous open space. Furthermore, MCL encourages the City to move toward fulfilling the General Plan's goal of developing a management plan for the approximate 10,000+ acres of open space that it already owns (Policy OS -2a). In the meantime, MCL urges the City to accept this offer! Sincerely yours, Kate/ Powers President cc San Rafael City Council adv_pos_GreenwoodAve_Ded icationOffer_mcl_2016.09.13. pdf Zip Code 94901 Phone Number 188-3008 :; Email Address ivowellL>>res.orU Send To ConununityScry ices Please enter your questions/comments below This is an email in support of the addition N' open space that is being proposed in Gertic Park. Esther Beirne From: Carlene McCart Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 2:07 PM To: Esther Beirne Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710977 From: Mary Ryan On Behalf Of Community Services Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 10:43 AM To: Carlene McCart Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710977 From: form enaine(Ws18.forms ite.com fmailto:form enaine(&fsl8.formsite.comj Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 6:14 PM To: Community Services Subject: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710977 ISan Rafael Contact Form pity of San Rafael Email Contact Form Thank you for visiting the City of San Rafael %Neb site. This form is intended for cumununicatin, with City of San Rafael staff. Your input will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member for their attention during regular business hours. Nutt that the City of San Ralael considers email to staff as informal communication. Please send a signed letter if you peeler to make your comment/question a matter of public record. Mail formal letters to PO Box 151560, San Rafael. CA. 94915. ::: First Name Josh > Last Name Powell Address 1 15 Rafael Drive Address 2 Cite San Rafael State CA 1 Please enter your questions/comments below Dear City Clerk: Please include the following public comment in the Park & Recreation Commission staff report concerning acquisition of land at the terminus of Greenwood Ave in San Rafael, I'm writing to Support the City's acquisition M' 3.1 acres of land, consisting ul'two xacant lots oI1" Greenwood Avenue leadins to Makin Grade. We are raising n family a block awvay from the trail and our young children use the trail with us regularly on hikes. To Small children. the woods the trail leads through is special and magical. with steep slopes. enormous trees and boulders. sparking* their curiosity. imagination and interest in nature. The Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) has been contacted by mo private parties to assist them in the acquisition ol' the two vacant lots. Fallowing Purchase of the property. MOST desires to transfer ownership of- the lots to the City of San Ralacl so that the lots can he preserved as permanent open space. serving as an extension to the 30+ acre Oakwood Open Space. The transfer will not cost anything, of the city and will preserve a vital touchstone to the past. We support the acquisition as frequent users of file trail. Thank you. Esther Beirne From: form-engine@fsl8.formsite.com on behalf of maureenbhodson@gmail.com <form_engine@fs18.formsite.com> Sent: Friday, September 16, 2016 9:49 AM To: City Clerk Subject: San Rafael Contact Email - 9712163 # tion Rafael Contact Form City of San Rafael Email Contact Form Thank you lin � isaing the City of San Rafael weh site. This farm is intcndCd for Canununicating with City of San Rafael staff. Your input will he forwarded to the appropriate .~tall member for their attention during regular business hours. Note (hal the City ol' San Rafael considers email to staff as informal Communication. Please send a signed ICIICI' il' you prefer to make your Comment/question a muter of public record. Mail formal letters to PO Box 151560. San Rafael. CA. 94915. First Name iVlaureen * Last Name Iludson Address 1 7 Madrona St Address 2 Cllr' San Ralael State CA 'Lip Code 94001 Phone Number 9253-241930 Email Address nuuu•Cenbhodson ,n2mail.com Send To CityClerk 1 Zip Code Phone Number Email Address eta etisN'oodtn sahO _com Send To Communityservices Please enter your questions/comments below support the city accepting* the'donation of the Makin Grade property. 1 hike the trail all the time with my family and it would be a shame to let such an opportunity to acquire this property go to waste. While the hiking is great. my main concern is lire danger. This road gives the city access to better protect our neighborhood if there was a fire on the other 30+ acres that is already city owned. Esther Beirne From: Carlene McCart Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 2:08 PM To: Esther Beirne Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710122 From: Mary Ryan On Behalf Of Community Services Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 10:45 AM To: Carlene McCart Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710122 From: form engine@fsl8.formsite.com rmailto:form enciine( fsl8.formsite.coml Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 10:33 AM To: Community Services Subject: San Rafael Contact Email - 9710122 ISan Rafael Contact Form city of San Rafael Email contact Farm Thank you for visiting the City of San Rafael weh site. This form is intended fur communicating with City of San Rafael staff. Your input will be 101"w:lyded to the appropriate stal'I' memher for their attention during* regular business hours. Note that the City ol'San Rafael considers email to staff as inlormal communication. Please send a signed letter il'you prefer to make your comment/question a matter of public record. Mail formal letters to PO Box 151560, San Rafael, CA, 9=1015. First Name Christy Last Name GuICWOud Address Address 2 Citi Stale 1 land and assuming that at some time in the future that the lands will be developed with homes, the access will most likely be hindered by a gated access. We need your presence at this important hearing. San Rafael Park and Recreation Commission 1400 Fifth Avenue (City Hall) City Council Chambers 7 PM Hugo Landecker [1' you no longer wish to receive "Gerstle Park --open space" emails, notil'y clandecker@saher.net with the words "Reniove frons Geistle Part. --open space emails" in the subject line. 3 Hugo -I am not returning to the office until the 26th. Carlene McCart is finalizing the Council report so I am copying her. All correspondence should go to the City Clerk (copying Esther too). Paul Get Outlook for iOS On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 2:26 PM -0400, "Hugo & Cynthia Landecker" <cIandecker@saber. net> wrote: Never too late. They will include all new info up to the last minute. You can send to Paul Jensen. Paul Jensen <Paul.Jensen@citvofsanrafael.or17> Thanks, Hugo Landecker On Sep 15, 2016, at 9:55 AM, Dan Fost wrote:\\ Hugo: Thanks for the update. I cannot attend tonight's meeting. Is it too late for letter writing? Who should I write to? best, Dan Dan Fost x�iv%v.danfostxom C: 415 -2Q7 -1Q10 On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 8:25 AM, Hugo & Cynthia Landecker <clandecker@saber.net> wrote: Good morning, Important Meeting Tonight I hope to see you tonight (Thursday) at the meeting of the San Rafael Park and Recreation Commission. From 7 to 8 PM they will have a public hearing regarding the City acquisition of 3.1 acres that includes part of the historic San Rafael to Bolinas Stage road. The most important thing to consider is that there will be no cost to the City. This is a win-win for the community and the City. It doesn't get any better than this. The Commission will make a decision on this important acquisition to the City Council and on Oct 3 the subject will again be heard before the City Council for a final decision. Another point that has not been discussed before is access to existing open space (adjacent to the 3.1 acres) by the Fire Department in case of need has not been mentioned. By not acquiring the Esther Beirne From: Dan Fost <danfost@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 4:18 PM To: Paul Jensen Cc: Hugo & Cynthia Landecker; Carlene McCart; Esther Beirne Subject: Re: Gerstle Park --Open Space, Saving Makin Grade Trail Dear City of San Rafael: I am a longtime resident of San Rafael, and one of the things I love most about my community is the easy access to natural beauty and open space. My wife and I bought our home on Miramar Avenue in the Gerstle Park neighborhood in 1994. We are avid hikers, and we especially love taking the loop from our house, either up Clorinda Street, through the open space and Upper Toyon and back down Greenwood Avenue, or in the other direction, up Greenwood, through the open space, and back down Clorinda. We are extremely fortunate to have open space like this in our neighborhood, and even luckier that the owner is willing to donate the land to the city to keep it undeveloped forever. In Mill Valley, the city has made its lanes and stairways a hallmark of the community, with special signs alerting walkers to secret pathways. Many of these have been lost in San Rafael. My former neighbors, the Claxon family, bought a city path or easement that ran between our houses in the 1950s, which once connected Miramar Avenue with Woods Street. That is now private property. On another junction, near one of the spots where Miramar and Miraflores avenues intersect, a stairway once connected our hillside neighborhood with Second Street, but that has been closed since before I bought my home. No doubt the stairs are expensive to maintain and insure, but closing them also takes a little piece of the fabric out of the community as well -- and also eliminates a safe route off the hillside in the event of fire or other calamity. I don't know the exact costs of insuring or maintaining the Greenwood open space if this land becomes city property, but as a San Rafael taxpayer, I believe it is worth the cost, as giving it up carries a cost as well. I also agree with the gentleman who spoke at the City Council meeting and posited that the city might face increased liability if it turns down the land offer and cuts off access to its existing open space, forcing people into unsafe routes. I will add that I am grateful the city and its staff are considering all issues and ramifications around this land transfer. I would love to see the next step occur and have the city establish an open space management plan. Thank you for your consideration. Dan Fost 106 Miramar Avenue San Rafael, CA www.dant'ost.con7 C: 415-297-1910 On Sep 15, 2016, at 12:05 PM, Paul Jensen <Paul.Jensen@citvolsanrafael.orL,> wrote: CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING GREENWOOD AVENUE OFFER OF DEDICATION RECEIVED ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 AND 2, 2016 1. Please do everything you can to maintain the Greenwood access to the Makin Grade trail. I purchased a home near the trail 8 years ago because it is a wonderful area for kids and dogs! I'm sure that this trail improves property values in Gerstle Park and brings many hikers and dogs to a beautiful part of San Rafael. Btw, I appreciate the improvement in police presence around 4th Streetl! Carol Abrahams 7 Redwood Dr, San Rafael 2. Dear Mr. Jensen, I have lived in the Gerstle Park area for 15 years now going for a walk nearly every day. The Makin Grade Trail is an integral part of my routine. I understand the the City of San Rafael has the opportunity of making the Makin Grade Trail a permanent open space, available to the public, in perpetuity. This trail is historically significant and continues to have importance and give pleasure to many people on a daily basis. This is an excellent opportunity for the City of San Rafael to step forward and preserve this trail, continuing to enhancing the quality of life for all of us who live here. I sincerely hope that you will give your support to ensure that Makin Grade Trail will continue to be open to the general public. With thanks for your attention in reading this email. Yo u rs, Adina Beaumont 10 Elford Street, San Rafael, Ca. 94901 3. Please... You must save this trail for open space, hiking, it has historical significance etc.! My husband was born and raised in San Rafael and I've been here 38 years and this is a precious part of our community! I understand some of our neighbors want to purchase it to save it and this must be the final solutionM! Do not let it become a private driveway as we cannot afford to lose this forever. This is a forever decision. Sincerely, Caryn Papiro, G. Park, S.R. L Dear Paul Jensen: I have owned a liome in Gerstle Park for over 25 years and have enjoyed the use of the Maken Grade Trail as well as other Open Space trails from Clark to D Street. Not only for us humans but this trail is important to wild life. I have been enjoying the (leer quid other animals who come through my property on a daily basis. Regards, Thomas Buttner .5 Clark Street Smi Rafael, CA 94901 5. Good morning, Jim and Paul: I understand that on September 6th the City Council will be discussing the donation of two lots abutting the Greenwood Open Space Preserve that will ensure the preservation of a portion of the historic Makin Grade and enhance access to the aforementioned Open Space. This is an opportunity not to be missed since the donation will be made by neighboring property owners to the City and is to be implemented with the assistance of the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) which will bear all the closing costs associated with the property transfer and donation. I , for one, believe that this proposed donation of lands that results in a modest extension of existing Public Open Space Lands is clearly in the public interest. It will be accomplished at no cost to the City of San Rafael , and , therefore, I urge that the City of San Rafael accept and expedite this donation. Sincerely, Roger Roberts 223 Southern Heights Blvd. San Rafael, Calif. 949901 Tel: (415) 457-7450 6. Dear Jim, I hike the Makin Grade Trail every morning with my husband and two friends. We feel so lucky to have that open space within a short walk from our house (we live on C Street). On our daily walk we meet many people that we have come to know and chat with. We have just learned the historical nature of the path from talking to our neighbors. The trail is a very important piece of open space in the middle of the city. We hope San Rafael will keep the Makin Grade Trail open for public use, it would be a great shame to lose this fabulous asset. Sincerely, Fran Halperin, Fran Halperin Halperin & Christ, Inc. fh@halperinandchrist.com www.halperinandchrist.com 415-457-9185 7 7. Paul and the City Council As many of you know, we brought the old Brewmeister's home of the San Rafael Brewery here at 119 Greenwood Avenue back to life. The old Makin Grade was alive and well as a stagecoach road to Ross and Bolinas in brewery times ... and likely a stage stop here after a long, dusty day on the trail. It is important to keep the Grade open as a part of the great hiking trail system here in San Rafael and we encourage Paul and the Staff to work with the Council to approve this opportunity to clarify ownership of the Grade. It appears to us that the transfer of the ROW to the subdivision was inadvertent or ill advised and have not found a paper trail that shows the City followed proper notice and procedure in converting this public property into private hands. This is the perfect opportunity to clarify public use of the Grade and tie it into the adjacent open space. Thank you for your efforts to approve this acquisition. Ron Moore and Christie Nelson 119 Greenwood Avenue 415/460-1717 cell 707/332-0882 It has come to my attention the Makin Grade Trail at the end of Greenwood Ave is being consider for possible development. I understand there have been private donations made to purchase the land and donate it to the city to ensure it remains undeveloped open space for years to come. I heard the city is resisting the donation so I thought I would take the time to help those in the city better understand how this small patch of land has united a community. I moved into my home at 138 Greenwood Ave 15 years ago. Shortly after my arrival I was introduced to this wonderful trail at the end of Greenwood Ave better know as Makin Grade Trail. Over the years the trail has grow in popularity with dog walkers, elderly and families. It's been amazing to see how this small patch of land turned I turned into a community center of sorts. It's united the neighbors in a way not often seen in recent times. Often while in my yard I'll observe familiar faces of groups heading up the the trail. I'd swear it gets more traffic than Gerstle Park! I wish there was a better way to convey the importance of this trail to the community. If you were to install a camera or two for a week I think you'd get an better idea. Hopefully you'll see a way to break through the red tape and help these lots get converted to open space and preserve the trail for generations to come. Thanks, Thomas Hogan 138 Greenwood Ave San Rafael 415-515-9018 9. Dear Mr. Jensen, I am writing as the owner of 148 Greenwood Avenue in Gerstle Park to let you know of the importance of keeping Makin Grade Trail open for public use. This is a neighborhood trail that many people use as a gathering place, recreational hiking area and dog walking. It is also part of a historic area. This trail is linked to open space and provides a safe passage way to hiking the other trails. Please do everything you can to protect Makin Grade Trail. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Jenai Lane 10. Dear Mr Schutz, I am writing you to implore you to keep our hiking trail open along the old stagecoach route which is now called Makin Grade. I have been hiking there for the past 26 years, since I first moved to Gerstle Park. The trail is only 10 minutes from my home on Ross Street, and it has provided countless hours of relaxation and exercise and sometimes socializing with my friends who also hike the trail. It is a treasure which we are so fortunate to have out our back doors, and it is enjoyed by a great number of people in this neighborhood, and occasionally their dogs as well. We all take great pride in this trail and various people have volunteered to keep it properly maintained, such as Hugo Landecker, my neighbor Mitch, and an elderly gentleman named Rene'. If this trail is closed due to someone's private driveway being constructed, I will have to get in my car and drive elsewhere to find an equally lovely and accessible trail. If the money is available to set this aside as open space, this seems like a no-brainer. There are many people who use this trail for fitness, a quiet respite, and a restorative communing with nature; you probably won't receive emails from all of them but I can vouch that the trail is much used and loved by our neighborhood residents. Please help us save our trail!! Sincerely, Cynthia F Cushman 11. From: Deborah Lennon jmailto:deborahmsot(@RmaiLcomj Please keep this area open for public use. As you know one of the reasons Marin/ San Rafael is so popular is the easy access to walking and hiking trails. As the populated areas are increasing and the traffic becoming almost unbearable we need these areas more than ever. This particular 4 area allows my dog and I an area of respite without having to get in my car and driving somewhere. There must be someway to keep open space available for our community Sincerely Deborah Lennon Resident of Grestle Park for 30 years 12. From: Land Wilson fmailto:sservices(a)gacbell.netl Dear Jim and Paul, I am a San Rafael resident living in the Spring Grove Canyon. I grew up in San Rafael and came back here in 2004 to raise my family. I am emailing you to voice my support for protecting Gerstle Park's Makin Grade Trail and Open Space. I use the San Rafael City Open Spaces in my canyon and the Gerstle Park canyon almost daily. I am a children's author and I have a routine of walking and writing. For the past 14 months I've been writing a middle grade book specifically about the wildlife that inhabits the forested areas of both Spring Grove and Gerstle Park. Coincidentally, I am working with a coalition of other residents, the town of Ross, and Marin Open Space Land Trust to preserve a nearby 10 acre section of the ridge not far from the Makin Grade Trail and Open Space (404 and 444 Upper Toyon). This land was annexed out of San Rafael into Ross in 2007 by the current owner for development. As of yesterday, I have learned from the owner that development plans are not going to happen because it has been documented that these forests are home to an endangered owl species. One of the things that makes Marin such an incredible place to live and/or recreate is that over the past century, people have stood together to protect our natural open space areas. I implore you to support protecting the historic Makin Grade Trail and open space area. If you would like to discuss any details about the wildlife in these areas that I have come to know and love, I welcome your calls. Sincerely, Land Wilson 415-309-3035 13. Hello Mr. Jensen, Our family has enjoyed the Makin Grade Trail for over 20 years and have spotted both bobcats and coyotes on it. It's a neighborhood treasure and should be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. Your help in making this happen would be greatly appreciated. Kathy & Dan Slane 50 Knoll Road San Rafael, CA 14. 1 am writing to strongly endorse the acquisition of the two vacant lots at the end of Greenwood Avenue, at no cost to the city. These properties are very challenging and unsuitable for development due to their steep hillside configuration. Conversely, they are wonderfully suited to becoming a permanent part of the adjacent existing Open Space. As a frequent user of the historic Makin Grade trail, which traverses the border of these lots, I have personally observed it to be a vital wildlife corridor for most of our native species, including the endangered Northern Spotted Owl, and neighbors have even spotted a mountain lion every few years or so. The trail is maintained by neighbors in terms of clearing brush and annually cutting down long grasses adjacent to the trail, reducing fire hazards. The trail is already well known to the neighborhoods, and the posting of signs designating the entry should not appreciably increase traffic. The existing open space does not receive any maintenance (to our knowledge) from the city, and thus the addition of these two parcels should not add any maintenance costs to the City. Residents stay on the developed trail, so there should not be any significant liability from the property addition, as it is too steep for people to hike casually. This seems to be a tremendous. win/win, allowing the City to protect a historic trail and add to existing open space with no acquisition cost. Please approve and accept these lots and augment the Open Space while we have the chance to preserve a few more acres from development, protect a beloved local walking trail, and help preserve habitat for San Rafael's wild residents. Sincerely, Susanne Lyons Resident of Upper Toyon (adjacent to Open Space) President of the Board, WildCare 415-269-2442 15. Email Address pamelasorrells@vahoo.com Send To CommunityServices • Please enter your questions/comments below Save the greenwood trail!! We have lost so much history, particularly in San Rafael. We need to hold onto a trail used by so many and with such historical relevance. I urge you to demand Marin County take on the responsibility of the 3.1 acres of property to protect the Greenwood Trail from development. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2016 1. Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident 2. Hi Paul, I am a long time resident of San Rafael, I remember when the Montecito Shopping Center was a yacht harbor and I remember the beautiful old court house on Fourth Street. A lot has changed over the years in San Rafael, some are not to my liking, but others have been an improvement like the revitalization of Fourth Street and the creation of city owned open space around Gerstle Park. The City of San Rafael has a rare opportunity to obtain property that includes part of the Makin Grade Trail. This trail is a vital link to access existing City of San Rafael open space and provides residents the opportunity to enjoy this historic area. I am one of the many people that use this trail on a daily basis and it would be a tragedy for San Rafael to lose this resource. I encourage you and the City Council to approve the acquisition of these two lots. Sincerely Dr. Donald Guttman * Please enter your questions/comments below Hello, I'd like to add my request to please help us keep our wonderful trail and access to our open space open and available to all. This is such an important and historical community resource, and helps keep our neighborhood and its residents, both human and canine, healthy, happy, connected, and able to avail ourselves of our beuwitful surroundings. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig Gerstle Park Homeowner and Resident 4. This letter is a request that the commission accept the offer of 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue. If the property is allowed to be developed the neighborhood of Gerstle Park will be permenantly cut off from accessing the existing 30 acre open space above. We, the citizens of San Rafael, will lose the very historic stagecoach road that many believed to be part of the open space for many years. Please approve the addition of this small parcel to the city's open space. Leslie Simons 7 Hi Guys, We just moved up to Clorinda and find that the area doesn't have quite the walking paths/loops that some of other places in Marin/San Rafael have, considering it's also a fairly dense population group in the area (although quite a fun one), it would be great to persist a walking loop by joining the open space up in that area together. I would also assume if the loop doesn't exist, that there's a potential for usage of the remaining land to decrease and potentially be more of a liability to the city as it would get (I think) a lot less usage at that point from residents. I hope you can definitely consider the proposal to include the parcels in an open space strategy, although new to the area, we've already started walking the loop :) Thanks, Robyn Battle 333 Clorinda Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR — SEPTEMBER 13, 2016 1. Please help us preserve access to our wonderful Open Space by protecting forever the historic and beautiful trail on Greenwood. The historical significance, the sense of community and camaraderie it fosters In this lovely outdoor space, the easy access for both our human and canine residents, and the protection of this parcel from future development will have a huge impact on our neighborhood and the city now and forever. Many of us use the trail on a daily basis and the privilege of having access to nature so close by is something we all treasure and appreciate as one of the great benefits of living here. That someone is willing to buy the land to preserve it is truly a wonderful gift and a special opportunity for all of us. . We sincerely hope you will accept this generous offer. Thank you for your consideration. Marney Craig 2. Makin Grade Trail - please keep this trail open for public use and available to hikers. It is a beautiful trail and part of San Rafael history. Please do not sell it to developers who will take the trail away. Sherry Jacobs Regarding saving Makin Grade Trail: I am a 100% supporter of efforts to save the historic Makin Grade Trail -- the old stagecoach trail which now extends through private property from Greenwood to the ridge top of Makin Grade and Upper Toyan! I use the trail weekly, a connector to several existing loop trails up to the ridge line, through Gerstle Park and even extending beyond Wolfe Grade. I beg the City of San Rafael to purchase this land and add it to the existing Open Space preserved land, for current and future residents of our fine community. It would be tragic if the City cannot step up and honor its responsibility to preserve this beautiful and secluded (short) stretch of our shared history -- which otherwise will be lost to future generations as private ownership will surely result in its demise. I'm sure that resources can be mustered for the relatively easy maintenance that this trail will require, and count me in if the City needs local citizenry to help with maintenance! Kark Weigl 3. Please approve the acquisition of the Open space access on Greenwood Ave! This trail is.used all day every day by many appreciative residents of Gerstle Park and San Rafael. The trail requires very little maintenance and I believe the value of maintaining this green space is well worth the benefits to the city of San Rafael. Carol abraham! 4. Dear Council and Park & Recreation Commission. For the past 25 years, I have been living in and enjoying the trails and nature that make Gerstle Park such a wonderful place to live and hike. Please vote Yes to acquire the Makin Grade Trail. Thank You. Thomas Buttner 5 Clark Street San Rafael, CA 5. We are urging the City to accept the gift of 3.1 acres of open space at the end of Greenwood Avenue. Keeping trail access to existing open space makes sense, and keeping our history makes even more sense. Vicki and David Sievers San Rafael residents since 1980 6. Please accept the gift of the 3.1 acres at the end of Greenwood Avenue! Keeping trail access to existing open space makes sense, and keeping our history makes even more sense. Thank you from a local Marinite and avid hiker. Sophie Fleming I am unable to attend the Thursday hearing on the potential addition of 3.1 acres on the Makin grade to city open space in Gerstle Park, so I would like to share my comments on the proposal via email. The parcels the Marin Open Space Trust (MOST) is in the process of acquiring are currently being used as open space though they have not been formally designated. These parcels would be adjacent to existing open space areas on the hillside. The loss of the parcels as open space would block public access to existing open space areas, and cut off a widely enjoyed trail route in the neighborhood. In addition, the parcels would improve the existing open space's value for wildlife by increasing the area of connected habitat on the ridge. A "Wildlife corridor" is a habitat linkage that joins two or more areas of wildlife habitat, allowing for movement from one area to another. It is state policy in California (AB 498, signed in 2015) to promote wildlife corridors and encourage voluntary efforts to protect their functionality. The state bill (written by our Assemblyman, Marc Levine) describes how habitats critical to the state's natural diversity are in danger of being lose, and connectivity between wildlife habitats is vital to preserving biological diversity. The Upper Toyon area adjacent to the open space contains a nesting site of the federal and state threatened northern spotted owl. The US Fish and Wildlife Service map of northern spotted owl range extends from Washington state south to Marin County -- so this nesting pair is at the southern end of its range. The species is vulnerable to human disturbance and we are fortunate to have a nesting pair in the city. In addition to the spotted owl, San Rafael open space is used by bobcat, mule deer, coyote, gray fox, many species of migratory birds, wood rats and other small mammals that serve as prey to spotted owls. Maintaining the area of habitat open to these species increases the likelihood that they will continue to forage and make homes here. In accepting the wonderful gift of this open space from MOST, the City of San Rafael has an opportunity to combine preservation of a unique historic resource with preservation of an important link to existing open space for the benefit of people, the benefit of wildlife, and the benefit of our sense of history. Liza Wozniak CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED SEPTEMBER 15 THROUGH 18, 2016 1. Dear Mr. Schultz, 9 Here is our support of the inclusion of Makin Grade, San Rafael, into open space. I wrote this piece about six years ago and have updated it to fit what we trust will be an affirmative vote from City Council. Thank you for reading and dispersing to City Council members. Best wishes, Christie Nelson and Ron Moore 119 Greenwood Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901 2. Dear City of San Rafael: I am a longtime resident of San Rafael, and one of the things I love most about my community is the easy access to natural beauty and open space. My wife and I bought our home on Miramar Avenue in the Gerstle Park neighborhood in 1994. We are avid hikers, and we especially love taking the loop from our house, either up Clorinda Street, through the open space and Upper Toyon and back down Greenwood Avenue, or in the other direction, up Greenwood, through the open space, and back down Clorinda. We are extremely fortunate to have open space like this in our neighborhood, and even luckier that the owner is willing to donate the land to the city to keep it undeveloped forever. In Mill Valley, the city has made its lanes and stairways a hallmark of the community, with special signs alerting walkers to secret pathways. Many of these have been lost in San Rafael. My former neighbors, the Claxon family, bought a city path or easement that ran between our houses in the 1950s, which once connected Miramar Avenue with Woods Street. That is now private property. On another junction, near one of the spots where Miramar and Miraflores avenues intersect, a stairway once connected our hillside neighborhood with Second Street, but that has been closed since before I bought my home. No doubt the stairs are expensive to maintain and insure, but closing them also takes a little piece of the fabric out of the community as well -- and also eliminates a safe route off the hillside in the event of fire or other calamity. I don't know the exact costs of insuring or maintaining the Greenwood open space if this land becomes city property, but as a San Rafael taxpayer, I believe it is worth the cost, as giving it up carries a cost as well. I also agree with the gentleman who spoke at the City Council meeting and posited that the city might face increased liability if it turns down the land offer and cuts off access to its existing open space, forcing people into unsafe routes. I will add that I am grateful the city and its staff are considering all issues and ramifications around this land transfer. I would love to see the next step occur and have the city establish an open space management plan. Thank you for your consideration. Dan Fost 106 Miramar Avenue San Rafael, CA 10 3. Hugo -I am not returning to the office until the 26th. Carlene McCart is finalizing the Council report so I am copying her. All correspondence should go to the City Clerk (copying Esther too). Paul On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 2:26 PM -0400, "Hugo & Cynthia Landecker" <clandecker@saber.net> wrote: Never too late. They will include all new info up to the last minute. You can send to Paul Jensen. Paul Jensen <Paul.Jensen@citvofsanrafael.org> Thanks, Hugo Landecker On Sep 15, 2016, at 9:55 AM, Dan Fost wrote:\\ Hugo: Thanks for the update. I cannot attend tonight's meeting. Is it too late for letter writing? Who should I write to? best,Dan On Thu, Sep 15, 2016 at 8:25 AM, Hugo & Cynthia Landecker <clandecker@saber.net> wrote: Good morning, Important Meeting Tonight I hope to see you tonight (Thursday) at the meeting of the San Rafael Park and Recreation Commission. From 7 to 8 PM they will have a public hearing regarding the City acquisition of 3.1 acres that includes part of the historic San Rafael to Bolinas Stage road. The most important thing to consider is that there will be no cost to the City. This is a win-win for the community and the City. It doesn't get any better than this. The Commission will make a decision on this important acquisition to the City Council and on Oct 3 the subject will again be heard before the City Council for a final decision. Another point that has not been discussed before is access to existing open space (adjacent to the 3.1 acres) by the Fire Department in case of need has not been mentioned. By not acquiring the land and assuming that at some time in the future that the lands will be developed with homes, the access will most likely be hindered by a gated access.We need your presence at this important hearing. 4. * First Name this is an email in support of the addition of open space that is being proposed in Gerstle Park Josh Powel CommunityServices * Please enter your questions/comments below This is an email in support of the addition of open space that is being proposed in Gertle Park. 5. 1 am a Gerstle Park resident who uses the open space for walking almost every day. I think the value of connecting already existing pieces of open space with a path is a no-brainer. Especially since it is being generously offered to the city at no cost. Furthermore, how is the fire department supposed to protect the city's investment in land without 11 good fire road access. I urge you to do the right thing and recommend that the city annex this gift of land. Thank you, Laurie Oman G. 1 support the city accepting the donation of the Makin Grade property. I hike the trail all the time with my family and it would be a shame to let such an opportunity to acquire this property go to waste. While the hiking is great, my main concern is fire danger. This road gives the city access to better protect our neighborhood if there was a fire on the other 30+ acres that is already city owned. Christa Gatewood 12 To: San Rafael City Council Members September 16, 2016 Re: Makin Grade Fr: Christie Nelson, lsshouse05@comcast., Gerstle Park hikers and dog walkers know the trail called the Makin Grade. The shady route beckons at the upper end of Greenwood Avenue and zigzags up through the cool, mossy woods. At the top when your feet hit the asphalt on Upper Toyon, you leave the only part of the historic Makin Grade that has not been paved over. What hikers may not know is that 130 years ago the Bolinas Stagecoach thundered down this steep course onto Greenwood Avenue past the San Rafael Brewery on the final leg of a three hour journey delivering vacationing passengers from Bolinas to the Marin Stables on 4`h and A. There they bordered a train to Sausalito and then a ferry home to San Francisco. In chilly rain or dusty heat, expert horsemen like Thad Lewis and Leonard Nott drove two or four draft horses that pulled these heavy wagons bound with passengers and goods from Bolinas to San Rafael over twenty miles of rutted road around treacherous turns and over twenty- nine bridges. The journey took three hours; the fare was $1.50. In 1878 the county paid Jesse Colwell and J.H. Wilkins of San Rafael $16,000 to build the new route from Bolinas to San Rafael. Portions of the road were laid out along the old Miwok Trail. Today if you walk the Makin Grade, you're traveling in history, and please stop by to see the only remaining building of the San Rafael Brewery at 119 Greenwood Avenue, the residence of Fritz Goerl, Brewmesiter, that we call home. Information retrieved from "The Bolinas Stage" by Brian K. Crawford htto://home.comcast.net/- crawl'ord.b/Essays/BolinasSta�,e.html The Bolinas Stagecoach on 4`h St., San Rafael Marin County Genealogy Society http://www.sfgenealogy.conVmarin/ourtowns/ot_sr.htm ice.. Esther Beirne From: Carlene McCart Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 2:07 PM To: Esther Beirne Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 From: Mary Ryan On Behalf Of Community Services Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 10:43 AM To: Carlene McCart Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 From: form enaine(afs18.form site. corn rmailto:form enaineCIfs18.formsite.com1 Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 9:24 AM To: Community Services Subject: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 ISan Rafael Contact Form City of San Rafael Email Contact Form Thank you for visiting the City ol- Sem Rafacl wch site. This form is intended Cor Communicating with City of San Rafael staff. Your input will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member for their attention during regular business hours. Note that the City of San Rafael considers email to staff as infornlat communication. Please send a signed letter if you prefer to make your comment/question a matter of public record. Mail formal letters to PO Box 151500. San Rafael, CA. 94915. ::: First Name Laurie Last Name Oman Address 1 70 Pleasant Lane Address 2 Cite San Rafael State CA 1 Zip Code 94901 Phone Number .41545 50605 ` Email Address Iauricomand6Cm Lmnni l.rom Send 7b C'onunuIli tyservices ,; Please enter your questions/comments below I an► a Gerstle Park resident who uses the open space for walking almost every Clay. I think the value of connecting already existing pieces of open -qpacc with a path is a no-brainer. 1;specialIy since it is being generously offered to the city at no cost. f=urthermore, how is the fire department supposed to protect the city`s investment in hand without good fire road access. I uNc you to do the right thin_ :uul recommend that the city annex this gift of land. 'I hank you, Laurie Oman Esther Beirne From: Carlene McCart Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 2:07 PM To: Esther Beirne Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 From: Mary Ryan On Behalf Of Community Services Sent: Monday, September 19, 2016 10:43 AM To: Carlene McCart Subject: FW: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 From: form engineCaJ)fsl8.formsite.com jmailto:form engine@fsl8. form site.coml Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2016 9:24 AM To: Community Services Subject: San Rafael Contact Email - 9709858 San Rafael Contact Form city of San Rafael Email Contact Form Thank yew fur visiting the City of San Rafael web site. This form is intended for communicating with City of San Rafael staff. Your input will he forwarded to the appropriate start memher for their attention during reuular bIISInCSS hours. Note that the City of San Rafael considers email to staff as informal communication. Please send a signed letter if you prefer to make your comment/question a matter of public record. Mail formal letters to PO Box 151560, San Rafael. CA, 94915. First Name Laurie Last Name Oman Address 1 70 Pleasant Lane Address 2 Cita San Raf iel State CA 1 Zip Code 94901 Phone Number 415.1550605 :x Email Address Iauricoman 16Cg'zmail.com Send To Comnnutityservices 11 Please enter your yueslions/comments below I am a Gerslle Park resident who uses the open space for walking almost every day. I think the value of connecting already e"isting pieces of Open spare with a path is a no-brainer. Especially since it is being generously offered to the city at no cost. furthermore. how is the lire department suppowd to protect the city's investment in land without good file road access. I urge you to do the right thin_I and recommend that the city annex this gift of land. Thank you. Laurie Oman �J�� s�����JJ�J ����s�!J� ����=� ��� �J� �� ! :�s� �J � � �JJ ���- �J �1� �� -J-r! 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