HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-01-27 - AGENDA REPORTS - DOWNTOWN NEWHALL (2)M
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CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Heldt and Members of the Cl ncl
FROM: George A. Caravalho, City Mana er ,
DATE: January 27, 1993
SUBJECT: DOWNTOWN NEWHALL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
PURPOSE
The purpose of the study session is to give the Council an opportunity to discuss Issues and
expectations pertaining to the upcoming Downtown Newhall Public Participation Program, and give
the staff further direction for this project.
STATUS OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
At Its meeting of November 24, 1992, the Council approved a draft request for proposals to design
and conduct a public participation program for Downtown Newhall. Changes to the suggested
study area map were made by the Council and the staff was authorized to make final revisions, as
deemed necessary. The draft was reviewed again by other key City staff in Economic Development
and CDBG. Upon final review and the map changes, the study was solicited to 13 consultants; on
December 18, 1992. Subsequently, two additional consultants requested a copy of the proposal.
Proposals were due on January 20, 1993 so that results may be reported to the Council by this
study session date. As of this writing (January 15th) eight of the original 13 consultants solicited
Indicated they are working on a proposal. A further update will be given at the Study Session.
PAST AND PRESENT WORK IN DOWNTOWN NEWHALL
1. Prior to Incorporation
In the early 1980's some physical improvements were made In the area. Ornamental sidewalks,
and some street furniture consisting of bus benches and decorative trash receptacles were
provided. Street trees were planted. The on -street parking spaces on Market Street were
restriped as diagonal spaces to accommodate more automobiles.
2. Since Incorporation
Several City projects have been conducted in Downtown Newhall. These have Included
Increased code enforcement efforts aimed at substandard dwellings and general clean-up,
annual areawide neighborhood clean-ups, and several programs through CDBG funds. These
have Included the Handyworker program (minor home repairs); paint rebate programs; curb,
gutter, sidewalk, and drainage Improvements; and counseling on fair housing rights.
3. Work in progress
The staff Is developing a citywide geobase Information system. Ultimately, this will facilitate
retrieval of property ownership Information, and should be particularly useful in Downtown
Newhall.
Agenda Item: J-
SUBJECTS AVAILABLE FOR COUNCIL DISCUSSION
A wide variety of subjects and Issues pertain to the Downtown Newhall area. The complexity and
degree of difficulty In soliciting public opinion make this an Ideal project for a consultant with this
expertise. Some of the Issues are as follows:
Y. Change has occurred in the area
Both the residential and commercial areas have changed. Physical, social, and economic
changes have occurred. Perhaps these changes have prompted the Interest to design and
conduct a public participation program In Downtown Newhall.
2. Further work In the area
What would reverse the unfavorable changes that have resulted? The quality of housing and
business opportunities has declined. Are there physical or social changes that could Improve
the area's vitality? Two physical changes have been discussed in the past. One is the
establishment of an historic preservation district. The other Is circulation changes which could
create two one-way streets to facilitate traffic flow. Among the social changes discussed Is
the creation of a legitimate curbside hiring hail for day laborers.
3. Future Participants
The Council may wish to discuss likely participants In the study. In addition to local residents
and property owners, many other groups would likely offer some very helpful input. The local
churches, school districts, the Board of Realtors, the Historical Society, the Newhall Merchants'
Association, the County Social Services Agency, and others, all have the ability to be a
valuable contributor.
4, Issues for Council Discussion
a. Boundary of the study area was revised per the Council's request to Include the area on
the north side of Lyons Avenue extending further west toward Orchard Village Road.
b. Past and current code enforcement in the area.
C. Affordable housing.
d. Increasing citizen involvement.
e. City services In the area such as Sheriff, library, senior citizens.
f. Stimulating private Investment In Downtown Newhall.
Review and discuss some or all of the above Issues, and/or others of the Council's choice.
2. Direct the staff to Include the Council's requests as part of the scope of work for the public
participation program.
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