Dear Mayor Ohtaki and Councilmembers,
Tonight is the final community input session about the downtown library renovation. I’m concerned that you’re not fully
considering the value of affordable housing at this site. We’ve heard support for an expanded Guild theatre, a 2nd movie theatre
on new parking lots, and increased traffic to restaurants; but where will all the workers for these services live? Turnover is
already very high for our small businesses and our schools. Young families, employees, and teachers are all leaving Menlo Park for
more affordable housing options. And while I’m happy to see that the council has approved more housing in recent years than it has
in the past, it isn’t nearly enough and the housing isn’t dispersed throughout the city. Please say YES to affordable housing at
the downtown library. Our community needs and wants you to take advantage of this incredible opportunity to build truly affordable
housing downtown.
Sincerely,
-- Julie Shanson
