Dear City Council, City Planning Commission, and City Staff,
I am a member of the Environmental Quality Commission but am writing to you as an individual.
First, I want to thank you all for your hard work on updating the Housing Element.
Second, I wholeheartedly support increased housing density (and associated zoning changes) as a way to help us meet our Climate Action Plan goals, and achieve other city priorities. More housing, at a variety of income levels will help a) reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) for folks who work in Menlo Park but don’t currently live here, b) create more options for residents who may want to simplify/downsize their footprint but stay in the city, c) and revitalize downtown and other commercial areas of the city.
Third, I’m not sure if this would be part of the Housing Element, or a separate set of Design Standards, but I want to ensure that buildings are designed so that large shade trees can grow and thrive, creating shaded sidewalks for all to enjoy (making the city even more walkable), places for residents to sit and enjoy the outdoors (and feel connected to nature), and provide a natural cooling solution during hot days. This may include setback rules, increased sidewalk width, having utility lines underground, ensuring open space, and providing incentives for trees to be planted. I’d also love to see us encourage rooftop/community gardens in larger complexes so folks can grow their own food and experience the resulting joy and health benefits that can arise.
With gratitude for your work,
Nancy Larocca Hedley
