Mayor Ohtaki, Vice Mayor Mueller, Council Members Cline, Keith and Carlton,
Thank-you for commitment to participatory governance which resulted in the Advisory Districting Committee (ADC). The Council’s
efforts and guidance were met with 29 applicants, demonstrating a high level of community engagement. The ADC’s end product was
the result of the members becoming experts on the communities of interest in Menlo Park as well as many other considerations.
The six-district mayor elected at-large should be removed from your discussion. This option would dilute the vote of District 1
and maintains an at-large (mayor) member of the council. This would not completely satisfy the demand letter to move from at-large
elections.Additionally, the ADC “voted unanimously to issue an advisory opinion recommending a five-district solution over a six”
(Staff report #. 18-056-CC).
It is clear that the sequencing is designed to allow two council members to run for a third term. I recognize that when choosing
to run for public office, we have both altruistic and personal reasons serve the community. Given that Menlo Park is changing how
we vote, at this time it is appropriate to consider the significant issues within each district rather than who wants to run for
another term.
Districts 1(Belle Haven) and 5 (Mueller and Carlton) are excluded from this discussion. When comparing Districts 2, 3 and 4, what
current and future issues have the greatest impact on the residents of Menlo Park? For example, traffic on Willow Road, Bay Road
and Middlefield Road affects District 2. Traffic on Willow, Middlefield, El Camino Real and Ravenswood effects District 3.District
4 is affected by Santa Cruz.Both District 3 & 4 include portions of the Downtown Specific plan. District 3 includes rail crossing
and main library.
These are just a few examples of what must be considered in the sequencing of elections.Sequencing should not be based on insuring
two council members run for a third term in the 2018 elections. If truly committed to the best interests of the City, you can
always run in 2020. Given the number of critical issues facing our City, it is appropriate to open the door for new people on the
Council. No one council member can be an expert on all issues facing the City.District elections allows for experts to bring their
more specialized knowledge to the dais. It is this information that allows a more inclusive and robust discussion.The shared
solutions will have taken into consideration a broader range of residents’ concerns.
This recommendation in no way diminishes your years of dedication to the council and the City of Menlo Park. You are commended for
taking time away from your family and employment to make decisions in the best interest of the City of Menlo Park. Thank-you!
Thank-you!
Respectfully, Pamela Jones (Belle Haven neighborhood of Menlo Park)
The impossible dissipates whenIbecomesWE.
