Dear Mayor Combs and Council Members,
I was unable to participate in public comment for today's meeting due to Covid-related challenges. I am writing now and asking that this be included as part of the public comment, and I would really welcome responses from Council.
My understanding is that the "Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: (One potential case)" is related to the recently approved ADA compliant sidewalk that would keep our kids safe on the way to school which was approved unanimously by Council in a recent meeting. I have seen the email from the property owner of a home on Sharon Rd (owner not occupying the home) along with a threat to the city of continuous legal challenges and related legal costs to the City in response to this approval.
As a resident of Menlo Park, I find it abhorrent that a single resident of our city can wield so much control that Council might actually consider reversing it's decision on this matter. If you do waver or relinquish because of this threat, it is a clear sign to ALL of our residents that 1 wealthy person can steer the course of the Council and that Council prioritizes the desires of the wealthy and the avoidance of litigation OVER the safety of hundreds of middle school residents who are simply trying to get to school without being nearly hit by cars on a REGULAR basis. The idea that the students should have to walk 5 blocks out of their way (AWAY from a so-called safe route to school) to appease ONE resident is absurd. This area of Sharon Rd is supposed to be a "safe route to school" and needs to actually be made safe. If you yield to this pressure, this is what I expect to happen as a result.
1. the students will not walk 5 blocks out of their way to get to school and will continue to be in danger of injury or death
2. you will send a clear message that the only voices that matter in Menlo Park are the ones of people who are worth millions
3. that the City will be faced with much more significant litigation when a student, on their way to La Entrada, is injured or killed due to the unsafe conditions that had been voted to be made safe and then rescinded because of the response of one rich resident
There is NO NEED for further "studies." This block area of Sharon Rd. is unsafe now and needs to be made safe for our community. You heard from countless parents and students who fear for their safety daily. This is what people call a no brainer. Most of you cannot get re-elected to Council with just the rich residents on Sharon Rd, so I would advise you to think carefully about the next steps here. It would be great if we could count on you to do the right thing because it is the right thing, but after living here for 11 years, I know that will not happen. For most of you, pushing back on this resident and moving forward with the VERY necessary sidewalk on Sharon Rd is in YOUR best interest, which, unfortunately, is all most of us can hope to steer you with.
Jennifer Johnson
