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D E L M A R ’ S C O M M U N I T Y J O U R N A L

Volume 19, Number 8 October 2014

N E W S • F E A T U R E S • O P I N I O N

Central Marin Sanitation Agency new plant with biogas. Courtesy Pacific Gas and Electric.

Ranger Ruckus page 7

Chili Chefs page 6

100 and Counting page 17

Stratford Stories page 18

SlImmINg CArbON DIeTShirley King | Avenida Primavera

Del Mar’s draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) will be previewed by the City Council in the early new year.

What bold measures, if any, will be recommended? Will there be ones that can measurably narrow the distance to the State-mandated goals of 1) reducing our energy consumption from nonrenewable sources, 2) diverting our waste from the landfill (zero waste) and 3) recycling or beneficially reusing our wastewater – all to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

Many cities in California are well entrenched in the implementation of their CAPs. Some of the more innovative cities have attracted statewide attention. The cities of Santa Monica and San Rafael are 2014 recipients of the Beacon Award sponsored by the Institute for Local Government and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative. This recognition goes to California cities, and counties that are voluntarily working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy and adopt policies and programs that promote sustainability. Cities in San Diego County that have also received this same award are Chula Vista and La Mesa. All of these cities have actively involved their community residents, businesses and city operations in a mutual process to plan and commit to the “best practices for sustainability.”

Examples of the notable sustainability measures championed by Santa Monica and San Rafael are ones that involve a direct action to influence community behaviors – specifically concerning food choices and disposal. Santa

continued on page 4

Sandpiper October 2014

Editorial

leTTerS TO The eDITOr • The Sandpiper welcomes readers’ letters and articles. • Material submitted must include the writer’s name,

street address, and phone number, and should not exceed 500 words.

• Material selected to be published may be edited or shortened.

Send to: The Sandpiper, Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014; or [email protected]

The Sandpiper is published by the Del Mar Community Alliance, a not-for-profit corporation. Its purpose is to advocate the Del

Mar Community Plan, to foster informed public and government decision-making regarding issues affecting the community of the City of Del Mar, and to encourage a social and political climate

favorable to the protection of the community character of the City of Del Mar and its environs.

Chuck Newton Circle: Rosanne & Joel Holliday, Carol Kerridge, Beth Levine & Henry

Abarbanel, Diana Marquardt & Rod Franklin

Publishers’ Circle: Jeff Barnouw, Darrese & Sam Borgese, Mary Ann & Bud

Emerson, Nancy Fisher & Mike Salt, Chuck Freebern, Lynn & Charlie Gaylord, Maryka & George Hoover, Pat JaCoby, Louise

Keeling in memory of Dave Keeling, Larry Schneiderman, Jane & Steve Voss,

Nancy and John Weare

Editors’ Circle: Penny and Buck Abell, Vava Anderson, Anthony Corso, Sandy & Bram Dijkstra, Mary & Jeffrey Friestedt, Susan & Judd Halenza, Lee Haydu, Linda & Jerry Hirshberg, Shirley King & Art Olson, Vernie & John McGowan, Bill Michalsky, Suzi Resnick & Stan Marks, Gloria Sandvrik and Harold Feder, Rose Ann and Ira

Sharp, Chic & Joe Sullivan, Sarah Dubin-Vaughn, Molli and Arthur Wagner

Editors: Jeff Barnouw, Sam Borgese, Tony Corso, Dave Druker, Bud Emerson, Ann Gardner, Carol Kerridge, Shirley King,

Art Olson, Shelby Weaver, Betty Wheeler. Webmaster: Virginia Lawrence. Editor Emeritus: John Kerridge.

All staff members and writers are unpaid volunteers. Thispublication depends upon the contributions of readers like you.

Make checks payable to Sandpiper, Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014

SmAll IS gOODThe San Diego Planning Department states on its website: “The recommendations of the planning groups are integral components of the planning process, and are highly regarded by the City Council and staff.

The Sandpiper hopes the September 11th recommendation by the Carmel Valley Planning Board

to reject the three-times oversized One Paseo Project east of I-5 on Del Mar Heights Road and support a smaller alternative is “highly regarded” by the City of San Diego as promised in their policies. As you read this edition of the Sandpiper, the San Diego Planning Commission is scheduled to vote on the project in downtown San Diego where the developer hopes to convince the City to set aside the approved community plan in favor of significantly greater density cloaked as “smart growth.”

Just days after hundreds of residents showed up at an earlier Carmel Valley meeting to voice their concerns about the unmitigated heights, density and traffic generating impacts documented in the One Paseo Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR), the UT reported that city staff was praising the project as a “premier” example of smart growth. The planners recommended that the City Council

approve the project because when denser projects get built along existing transportation corridors, they provide “a unique opportunity …for a compact mixed-use village in an already urbanized area.” But that praise is out of sync with the low scale, suburban Carmel Valley neighborhood environment where the only transportation corridor is an already overburdened I-5 and ignores City Policy that recognizes that “recommendations of the planning groups are integral components of the planning process and are highly regarded by the City Council and staff.”

We hope this is true. We hope the San Diego Planning Commission and the City Council will ask the developer to go back to the smaller Project Alternative and seriously consider the best way to reduce the negative impacts of the current proposal without giving up the mixed use, main street concept. It would also help if the property owner on each side of El Camino Real (Del Mar Highlands and Kilroy Realty) viewed both sides of El Camino Real as one Main Street for the community rather than two isolated competitors. A community based organization opposing the current larger proposal, What Price Main Street, has worked hard to push for the smaller mixed use alternative which they consider a win-win for the developer and the community. We do too and hope that San Diego will give the Carmel Valley Planning Board’s recommendation “high regard.”

CAN’T geT NO SATISfACTIONAnthony Corso | Stratford Court

The City Council continues its discussion regarding the design and conduct of a citizen satisfaction

survey. Of concern is the value of such an inquiry in terms evaluating current city services and programs, as well as improvements offered to better meet the needs of local residents.

Questions are being raised regarding the design of the questionnaire, how the survey might be conducted and the manner in which public concerns would be given priority of attention. City staff will offer recommendations addressed to these, and other issues, at the City Council meeting of October 20th. The agenda will include thoughts and opinions regarding survey design, questions to be included and how the completed survey might be implemented.


Pipe Up

Seagrove Park with Coughlin bench on right. Painting Benjo Masilungan

Past workshop. Courtesy City of Del Mar.

PIPe UP: marnie rocks!

The “Getting to Know You” article by Harold Feder about Marnie Mahoney was a perfect choice for a neighbor

everyone should know. She has been one of the most unheralded contributing citizens in our community for years. Two things people may not know about Marnie besides her starting the Garden Club, which has been beautifying our town for many years, she still volunteers at many events and was the driving force behind the the creation of the history wall now at the new Lifeguard Center.

Thank you for writing about a true lady and Del Mar treasure,

Barbara Harper, Ocean Front

CITy hAll: VOICe yOUr ChOICeKathy Garcia | City of Del Mar, Planning and Community Development Director

The Del Mar community is invited to an interactive workshop on Monday evening October 27, 2014 to

discuss options for City Hall and the potential for other uses of the current City Hall site at 1050 Camino del Mar. The workshop, the third in a series of City Hall workshops, will be held in the City Council Chambers. The 6:00 PM workshop will be preceded by a reception and social starting at 5:30 PM, featuring refreshments and displays of some of the possible City Hall site concepts.

This workshop is an excellent opportunity for community members to voice their preference as to what to build. Should it be only municipal offices (City Hall) and Council Chambers/Meeting Rooms (Town Hall) or should additional development be considered? At the prior June workshop, participants suggested that additional space be built to have cultural uses, retail and restaurants, or housing. Additional public parking, beyond what is needed for a City Hall, was also desired.

Now is the time to discuss these various options with your community and voice your priorities and choices to the City Council. The master planning architects have developed a number of conceptual options ranging from planning for civic facilities only to a mixed-use development that includes retail, restaurants and residential along with the City and Town Halls. These options, along with their associated costs and economic analyses, will be discussed at the workshop. Let your thoughts be known as to which direction you prefer.

Over the last year, the City Council and many community participants have weighed in on the needs, preferred site and municipal program. Detailed information, prior reports to City Council and background information can be found at www.delmar.ca.us/cityhall or by calling 858.755.9313. Future workshops and City Council meetings will discuss the refinement of the desired program direction and an eventual design.


Ask Doctor Rich

ASK Dr. rICh!Rich Simons | Upper East 11th Street

Every month, Rich Simons answers readers’ most perplexing questions.

Photo illustration Art Olson

Q – Just a few months back you were carrying on about some utopia back east which closely resembled Del Mar but with the exception that they had for years supported a grocery store and a hardware store. You attributed it to “customer loyalty.” Does this place really exist, or is it some Shangri-La that you invented?

No, and it isn’t Brigadoon either. And as Shirley MacLaine says in the title of her book: “You Can Get

There From Here.” In fact, if you work your way about 40 miles north of Manhattan to the juncture of Five Mile River with Long Island Sound, you will find yourself smack in the middle of Rowayton, Connecticut. It is actually a village within the larger municipality of Norwalk. You will find it written up (favorably) in Wikipedia and the 4 July 1993 and 14 January 2014 issues of The New York Times.

Space considerations last time prevented me from telling you a few other things about Rowayton. For instance, as far as I can tell all residential streets in the town are what we would call “dead end.” (Of course they talk kinda funny back there, so they call them something called a “cool day sack.”) But by any name there are great advantages. For instance, you can have a block party anytime you want and no one is going to complain. And if your kid gets hit while playing in the street, it will probably be at low velocity and the driver will be a good neighbor that you really, really like. Del Mar might want to consider adopting this model. Of course we will need to maintain a few through streets, but they could be zoned for businesses, like maybe a grocery store or a hardware store.

And there’s another thing. In my frequent trips to Rowayton to visit my niece, I have noticed that the lawns and gardens are always . . . well, LUSH . . . at least when not covered by snow. It turns out that they have this system whereby not a week goes by without water being delivered to all the yards in town. It comes out of the sky, they say. And it’s

free! (They have a name for it, but I can’t recall what it is.) This is a model we might want to consider adopting, if not county-wide, then locally.

It won’t surprise you to know that the trees in Rowayton grow tall and lush. But be that as it may, no one has to risk life and limb clambering skyward to trim them. The deal is, at least twice a year, usually in winter, a storm sweeps through with powerful winds that take care of any limbs that need to come down. That just leaves a little cleanup job.

And another thing – Rowayton has a dock, where the boating people can tie up and go into town to dine at any one of a number of fine restaurants . . . and, oh, maybe load up on groceries. Frankly, I think it’s absurd for a city to be located next to a body of water and NOT have a dock, or a wharf or a pier or something. Face it, wouldn’t you like to be able to stroll down to our lagoon and hop into your dory to go rowing somewhere? Hop a ferry to Catalina? Sure you would.

Rowayton has a excellent library, a Farmer’s Market, and lots of parks and beaches. But alas – no bookstore. Sigh! Well, I guess no place is perfect.

Monica has included a climate action measure that is not usually captured in a traditional sector-based greenhouse gas emissions inventory – local food and agriculture – the essence of the community’s diet but none the less a large user of energy resources. This city within the LA area has committed to reducing meat and diary purchases by 15% through the promotion of ‘Meatless Mondays’ and the “Cool Foods Pledge.” Santa Monica vigorously supports sustainable, local and organic food both to lower the intense emissions associated with food production and to improve health. The operation of its Farmers’ Markets has been expanded to three days a week on alternate streets and different times – marketing unprocessed foods that are produced with the least emissions.

At the other end of the food production-to-consumption-to-waste cycle San Rafael, long-committed to a Zero Waste goal, has partnered its solid waste hauler with its

SlImmINg CArbON DIeTcontinued from page 1

wastewater service provider on a food waste-to-energy project. For many years pigs and peacocks have been naturally composting the food scraps at its Recycling and Resource Recovery Center. Now there is a new “big blue machine” that is processing commercial and residential food waste (restaurant and household food waste picked up from the curb). The processed food is sent to the sewage treatment plant, where it is converted into a biogas for use by the wastewater treatment plant and reducing its use of natural gas. San Rafael calls this “direct engagement” of its community – curb composting to benefit everyone. Although, the pigs and peacocks may have to talk with their management about this deal.

Many California communities like Santa Monica and San Rafael have asked their residents to adopt and foster sustainable behaviors within their climate action mitigation plans. Depending upon how much Del Mar’s Climate Action Plan will ask us to help, will there will be a “Beacon” in our future and maybe a little less bacon?


Lina Hernandez, Assistant Store Manager and Kristen Lopez, Store Manager at Lorna Jane Active Living.

Photo by Shirley King.

hellO, mATe!lorna JaneShirley King | Avenida Primavera

One of Australia’s most popular foods, Vegemite has never caught on here - despite its rich source of B

Vitamins, thiamine, riboflavin and folate with no added sugar, or fat and easy-to-eat anytime spread on crackers or bread. However no acquired taste is needed for Lorna Jane another Aussie homegrown health and lifestyle import that is moving through California at an impressive speed. Dominating the fitness fashion market in Australia, Lorna Jane Activewear has opened 25 stores within two years in California. And two months ago Lorna Jane opened its Active Living Room Del Mar – its sportswear retail and

“move studio” on the street level of the Del Mar Plaza. That block is now buzzing with movers and shakers.

As group exercise for women in the form of aerobics heated up in the1980s, women put up with the ill-fitting fitness clothing that would never be worn on the street. In response to her own discomfort with the misplaced seams of aerobic clothing, Lorna Jane Clarkson, a former dental therapist and the Founder of her namesake business began sewing her own fitness outfits – first refashioning her swimsuit. She continues to design and lead the team of female designers for her almost two hundred worldwide stores – selling sportswear and lifestyle clothing that refuses to be dull or relegated to the gym bag, and she knows where to place the seams.

Lorna Jane’s inventory is in motion on the gym floor and also on the racks. Every month 70 to 100 new pieces are introduced of which 8 to15 are style changes, and a new color is launched every 6 weeks. The colors are vibrant, many with striking accent trims – aimed at a broad demographic. Exclusive fabric in the product line is LJ Excel that is high performance, UV-protected, anti-piling, moisture-wicking, anti-fading and 4-way stretch – outlives its owner.

OCTOber 2014Pat JaCoby | Del Mar Community Connections

ShAKe, rATTle & rOllThe joint most certainly will be jumping as Del Mar Community Connections holds its “Shake, Rattle & Roll”-themed 14th annual benefit celebration Oct. 25 at the Del Mar Powerhouse.

Event co-chairs Chris Engelbrecht and Carly Michaels predict a lively evening including cocktails, dinner by Pacifica Del Mar, a live auction, a DJ and dancing. “Dig out those ‘50’s style Joanie poodle skirts and Fonzi leather jackets,” they suggest, “or the more conventional ‘50s apparel of “Ozzie and Harriet” or trend-setting working girl “Our Miss Brooks.”

“Tuning into the theme, a few oldie Nat King Cole numbers may add to the nostalgia,” they predict.

Although final figures aren’t in, the co-chairs estimate a record-breaking sum will go this year to support the work of Del Mar Community Connections in providing programs and services that enable the community’s senior residents to live independently, safely and continuously in the homes that they love.

Deadline for tickets and reservations is Oct. 15. Information is available at 858 792-7565 or www.dmcc.cc.

Assisting the event co-chairs are committee members Rosanne Holliday, Julie Iantorno, Pat JaCoby, Beth Levine, Felise Levine, Margaret Maple, Claire McGreal, Jenny Meiselman, Susan Morrison, Kathy Reed, Marilyn Sinnott, Nancy Weare and Lauren Windle.

Serving as Honorary Chairs are Lou Ann and Don Countryman and Rose Ann and Ira Sharp.

Since its creation in 1999, DMCC has expanded hand in hand with its clientele. Today it offers numerous social, cultural, health-related and educational activities. Just a few examples are “Ride Buddies” who give rides to medical-related facilities, the Neighborhood Emergency Support Team (NEST), and the weekly grocery shuttles. DMCC will continue to provide our maturing neighbors with watchful eyes, a sympathetic ear and a willing, friendly, helpful hand.

continued on page 11


Captain Pat O’ Neil and members of the crew certify Del Mar’s Public Works employees in CPR and first aid. Photo Nancy Fisher.

COmmUNITy PrOTeCTOrSNancy Fisher | 24th Street

Del Mar residents might be surprised to hear that our firefighters spend only 10% of their time fighting fires.

The rest is devoted to preventing fires from starting in the first place, responding to calls for medical aid, maintaining equipment, and educating themselves and the public. That doesn’t leave much time for thumbing through chili recipes, as some might imagine.

Our nine-member, full-time team of firefighters includes three captains, three fire engineers, and three firefighter/paramedics who work 24-hour shifts in teams that include one of each. During this time they’re inseparable as all three are required to respond to calls together. Even their hour of exercise time, to ensure that they can lift the 85-100 lbs. of equipment they might need to carry, is spent together. “One of us might be on a treadmill,” says paramedic Joel Carrington, “while another is on a stationary bike or lifting weights.” This explains why residents often see three firefighters conducting a routine inspection or shopping at Albertson’s driving a fire engine. “The fire engine is our tool box,” says Captain Pat O’Neil. “It goes everywhere we go.”

The responsibilities of the department are fire prevention, suppression, and protection, emergency medical services, vehicle accidents, rescue, and hazardous material incident response, while working closely with Solana Beach and Encinitas for shared management services. All firefighters undergo continuing training to stay current, as well as classes to further their careers within the department. Some classes are conducted in the afternoon and some are completed online, and range from swift-water rescue and the handling of hazardous materials to understanding the effects of new drugs on the street. Firefighters are required, by law, to complete two hours of training per shift, and if

PeAK PerfOrmerSNancy Fisher | 24th Street

The Sandpiper spoke with Captain Pat O’Neil to learn a little more about the personalities behind the job

descriptions of our talented Del Mar Firefighters.

NF: We know you work in three teams, and that each team includes a Fire Captain, a Fire Engineer, and a Firefighter/Paramedic. Can you give us a brief description of each position?

PO: Sure. The Captains lead the crew. They’re responsible for supervising the shift, coordinating training and directions for the day, and documenting all incidents. The Engineers drive the fire engines and pump water if necessary, and are in charge of the huge task of maintaining all of the equipment we need. And the Firefighter/Paramedics are the highest level of medical authority on the apparatus. They ensure that all the medical gear is ready to go and provide training to the rest of the team.

NF: We know you live in Mission Valley, but where do the eight other members of the staff live?

PO: Five of us live in North County and four live south of Del Mar but, with good traffic, it takes each of us about twenty minutes to drive to the station.

NF: Do any of the staff have special talents or unusual hobbies?

PO: Oh yes! Captain Giannetto has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, and we also have a retired professional baseball player, a General Contractor, a former Solana Beach Lifeguard, an instructor at the Fire Academy, a charter boat captain, and at least one second, or maybe third, generation firefighter. And I’m sure I’m forgetting something.

NF: Who’s the funniest? Is there a firehouse clown?

PO: That would be Morgan Sherman. He’s always trying to crack us up.

NF: And now, the answer we’ve all been waiting for…who’s the best cook?

PO: That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say Jimmy Bingham is one of our better cooks.

continued on page 8

fire Captains

fire engineers

firefighter/Paramedics

Jim Bingham

Pat Giannetto

Pat O’Neil

Jeff Penacho

Dave Read

Rob Tucker

Joel Carrington

Gio Maniscalco

Morgan Sherman


Ranger’s vehicle shown in video.

rANger rIghT

Recently rumors and concerns have arisen in the community about a traffic incident between Del Mar’s

Ranger and a Sheriff reserve deputy. The deputy was stopped by the Ranger for the illegal use of a cell phone while driving. The deputy’s rude, abusive reaction was videotaped by the Ranger.

The incident happened in March but was recently made public because of a California Public Records Act request filed by news organizations.

In an attempt to sort out the facts, the Sandpiper contacted both incoming Council Member Dwight Worden and City Manager Scott Huth. See excerpts of their comments below. (Complete texts of these statements can be found on our website.)

Dwight Worden statement sent to City Council on September 26

Today I have seen the video captured by the body camera worn by our Del Mar Ranger when he made a

stop on an off-duty deputy sheriff. Many members of our community have sent me links to the video, have expressed their outrage at the deputy sheriff’s conduct, and have shared their frustration that they have not heard from their city as to what actions are being taken in response. Are we backing up our employee who, judging from the video, acted courteously and professionally?

The community wants to know the full story to the extent the city can put it forth without compromising the privacy rights of any individuals engaged in personnel actions. Have there been investigations by the city? By the Sheriff? Have conclusions been reached? Has discipline been imposed? These are but some of the questions that need to be answered.

My reactions to the video (I have seen several versions, including the full 7 minute video and the news stations’ reports) were two fold: (1) I was proud of our ranger--he acted professionally and courteously in the face of rude, vulgar, and totally inappropriate behavior by the off-duty deputy; (2) I was outraged at the the off-duty deputy sheriff’s conduct.

This “story” and video are running through our community like wildfire. Rumors are rampant. This is a time when we need to know the facts. I urge the City to come forward publicly with an explanation, to the extent it can under law, of what happened and what actions have been taken in response. We need to stand behind our employees when they are wronged. We need to seek discipline where it is appropriate. The community needs to feel that its leaders are looking out for community and our employees, which I believe they are, but it is hard to feel secure in that in the face of silence from the city.

Scott huth statement issued by City September 27

On March 10, 2014, while driving to and from City of Del Mar parks, the City’s Park Ranger observed an

individual using a handheld cell phone while driving. In an effort to ensure public safety, the individual, (who later turned out to be an off-duty Sheriff Reserve Deputy), was pulled over by the Park Ranger. During the incident, the volunteer Reserve Deputy was visibly frustrated, rude, and inappropriately challenged the Ranger’s authority. The City commends Park Ranger Adam Chase for his professional and calm response to the individual’s allegations and statements. The individual was provided a warning, but no citation was given to the individual.

This traffic stop was captured by the Ranger’s body camera on his uniform. Ranger Chase brought this situation to City Manager Scott Huth’s attention. Upon review of the incident, City Manager Huth immediately contacted the Sheriff’s Department and requested immediate review and follow up. The Sheriff’s Department responded immediately by taking appropriate action with the volunteer Reserve Deputy. The Captain of the Encinitas Sheriff Station (which covers Del Mar) communicated to all Sheriff Station personnel to reinforce the importance of supporting and cooperating with the Del Mar Park Ranger and clearly describing the authority of the Del Mar Ranger.

The comments and statements made by the individual involved in the traffic stop, although unacceptable, highlighted the need for both the City of Del Mar and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department to continue to look at ways to improve our relationship, and communications, and to work cooperatively to provide a high level of service to the community we serve. Finally, the City commends Ranger Chase for his service and professionalism in handling this manner.


Staying Alive class. Photo DMTV.

DmTV PreSeNTSready ready?Luana Karr | DMTV

Dry hot weather, no rain in sight, fire and floods are all around us. All of this has brought to the foreground

the need to conserve, to plan and be prepared for any type of emergency. The Del Mar Television Foundation has been collaborating with other Del Mar non-profit organizations to help bring the information you need to your fingertips. You can either view these programs on our Del Mar Television channel or online on our Vimeo Channel or by checking out the DVDs at the Del Mar Library.

One of the pertinent and timely videos is on preparing for wildfires. Our Hot Topics series included a program entitled “Wildfire Reality.”

This special program will help you learn about preparing a defensible area around your home, showing you changes you can make on your house to offset flying embers, and encourage you to work with your neighbors to clear alleys and canyons of debris.

Another program, our 3-part “Are You Ready” video, shows how you can prepare for a disaster, including fire, flood and earthquakes. It also includes making a disaster plan and kit for your family and particularly how to handle utilities in these situations.

If you are interested in water conservation, watch the program “Water Wise.” This will give you information to help you with drought-tolerant plants and with watering systems.

If you need to review your first aid knowledge, then the “Staying Alive Class” is for you.

These and other shows for the community can be viewed via our updated website: www.delmartv.com.

they’re too busy one day, they must complete four hours the next day.

Because of Del Mar’s elderly population, medical aid calls are often for chest pains, shortness of breath, and hypertension. Car accidents and water-related injuries also contribute heavily and our paramedics are prepared to determine, with the use of a 4 or 12-lead EKG whether a patient should be transported to a trauma center. Because they are unable to perform x-rays they frequently err on the side of caution and transport accident victims to the trauma center at Scripps La Jolla. In all cases, whether or not the accident is traumatic, they recommend that people be transported to a hospital for evaluation.

In addition to furthering their own educations, firefighters provide classes, demonstrations, and public safety and disaster preparedness programs to the public and to city employees, including regular certification of Del Mar’s Public Works employees in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), the use of Automated External Defibrillators(AEDs), and first aid. They are a sponsoring agent for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and offer CPR instruction through Del Mar’s non-profit organizations. Another little-known benefit to the community is their semi-annual training of service dogs to ensure the dogs aren’t startled by firefighters and their equipment.

Rounding out their responsibilities are annual inspections of Del Mar’s hotels, motels, restaurants, and new businesses, and the review of residential and commercial building plans for fire code compliance. And they’re available, by appointment or drop-in, to give residents and their families a tour of the Fire Station.

But back to the chili cooking. “Yes,” says Captain O’Neil, “we enjoy cooking for charity groups, fundraisers, and for ourselves.” To find out which firefighter is considered one of their best cooks, see “Inside the Fire Department” in this issue.

COmmUNITy PrOTeCTOrScontinued from page 6

fAIr lee

Outgoing Del Mar Mayor and Council Member, Lee Haydu, has been formally recommended

by unanimous vote of our Council to be appointed as a member of the Fair Board. The recommendation goes to Governor Brown who has appointing authority. Mayor Haydu has been solicited to apply for the appointment by Speaker of the State Assembly, Toni Atkins. She has also been endorsed by our Assembly Representative Marty Block. Several existing members of the Fair Board have expressed their support for a Haydu appointment.

This does not affect the process of developing a new governance model for the fairgrounds which is still under consideration.


Some of Del Mar’s 350 Volunteers. (l to r) Bill Michalski, Karen Lockwood, Barbara Stegman, Jay Stegman. Photo Art Olson

Chiquita Abbott • Buck Abell • Helen Abjanic • Linda Addison • Anne Allen • Brad Allison • Roger Alsabrook • Sissy Alsabrook • Mary Lou Amen • Shawn Anderson • Vava Anderson • Robert Angello • Jimmy Anklesaria • Cathy Asciutto • Nancy Atherton • Gail Bakker • Ted Bakker • Regina Balch • Jan Barnes • Jeffrey Barnouw • Carolyn Batzler • Molly Begent • Bruce Bekkar • Anne Benckendorff • Jim Benedict • Kathleen Black • Lynne Blackman • Betty Blair • Kathy Bleakley • Sam Blick • Richard/Sharon Bockoff • Pat Bone • Steve Bonker • Linda Brady • Ellen Breen • Larry Brooks • Martha Brooks • Alice Brown • Mary Ellen Buehler • Leana Bulay • Audra Burcham • Walt Burkhard • Bing Bush • Urbano Bustamonte • Andrew Cady • Linda Castile • William Cecil • Paul Chasan • Michael Chiappetta • Linda Chisari • Helene Citeau • Gordon Clanton • Mark Corcoran • Anthony Corso • Jill Coughlin • Don Countryman • Robin Crabtree • Crystal Crawford • Scott Crouch • Joe Curtis • Lani Curtis • Mary/Brian Daly • Maile D’Arcy • Gale Darling • Dolores Davies-Jamison • Patricia De Angelis Ratner • Karla Deerinck • Ronnie Delaney • Jonathan Delbruck • Becky Deller • Laura DeMarco • Rebecca Dembitsky • Steve Denyes • Liz/Wayne Dernetz • Yvonne Dichiara • Nancy Dietrich • Maureen Dime • Staci Dixon • Kristen Druker • Ann & Dave Duvall • Robbie Dwyn • Jeffrey Dysart • Richard Earnest • James Eckmann • Rick Ehrenfeld • Brooke Eisenberg-Pike • Bud Emerson • Mary Ann Emerson • Bill Engel • Marla Engel • Barry Entous • Tanys Evangelisti • Lars Fahlberg • Valerie Fanning • Priscilla Fawcett • Harold Feder • Ann Feeney • Carmen Fernandez • Kathy Finnell • Nancy/Mike Fischer/Salt • Kim Fletcher • Janet Fonseca • Virginia Frankum • Pat Freeman • Jean Freidman • Andrew Friedl • Jean Friedman • Mary Friestedt • Melissa Gans • Robert Gans • Charlie Gaylord • Lynn Gaylord • Thelma Gerome • Joanne/Joe Gervase/Calabro • Jason Gines • Pete Glaser • Greg Glassman • Grace Godefroy • Carol and David Goodell • John Goodkind • Zach Groban • Jen Grove • Charlotte Gumbrell • Robert Hajek • Judd Halenza • Susan Halenza • Diane Hall • Michael Halpern • Barbara Harper • Lee Haydu • Jan/Fred Heinzmann • Caroline Helmy • Dick Hertzberg • Julie Hill • Carl Hilliard • Sharon Hilliard • Ashleigh Hinrichs • Di Holker • Joel Holliday • Nicole Holliday • Rosanne Holliday • William Holliday • Virginia Holt • Maryka Hoover • Sandra Hoyle • Kelley Huggett •

Jane Isaacson • Patricia JaCoby • Jim Jelley • Kathie Jiang • Barbara Johansen • Frank Johns • Don Johnson • Melinda Johnson • Luana Karr • Janice Kay & Michael Batter • Louise Keeling • Jeff Keller • Doris Kendall • Mike Kendall • Carol Kerridge • Shirley King • Carolyn Kling • Hilde Koessler • Candace Kohl • Terry Kopanski • Kathryn Kremer • Kristine Kruseski • Justin Kulongoski • Scott & Alexis Kurtz • Beth Lahay • Susan Landers • Grant Larson • Virginia Lawrence • Ian Leggat • Nitza Leichtling • Bertha Leone • Jerry Lettieri • Richard Levak • Felise Levine • William Lewis • Karolen Linderman • Karen Lockwood • Linda Luke • Lisa Lutz • Stephen Lutz • Scott MacDonald • Marnie Mahoney • Barbara Mandel • Frank Mannen • Stan Marks • Joan Masterson • Julie Maxey-Allison • Walker McBride • Tom McCarthy • Nathan McCay • Jennifer McClellan • Andrew McCracken • Steven McDowell • Vernie & John McGowan • Claire McGreal • Tom McGreal • Margaret McIntosh • Mike McLoughlin • Maureen McReynolds • Toya McWilliams • Rita Meier • Bill Michalsky • Dagmar Midcap • Sally Middleton • David Mighdoll • Judi Miller • Phyllis Mirsky • Nicole Moran Oneil • Carol More • Andrea Moreno • Breanne Morgan • Bill Morris • Loretta Morris • Mike Mosakowski • Donald Mosier • Barbara Mullen • Darrell Muller • Kay Muller • Mary Murrell • Kathy Nahum • Tom Nelson • Arthur Olson • Ken Olson • Lisette Omoss • Carol Ostroff • Arline Paa • Alyssa Pardini • Sherryl Parks • Marion Perlman • Joanne Petrilli • Susan Pfleeger • Tracy Phillips • Cap Pinney • Margaret Pope • Karen Powell • Hershell Price • Molly Proul • Daniel Quirk • Richard Raack • Kim Ramsey • Dawn Rawls • Ann Ray • Kathy Reed • John Reichel • Hilda Renner • Lisa Renner • Suzi Resnik • Leslie Robson • Linda Rock • Jacque Rogers • Reggie Rowe • Alan Rubin • Dan Saito • Debi Salmon • Allison Sanford • Nancy Sanquist • Margi Sargis • Dan Sbicca • Susan Schelling • Daniel Schreiber • Richard Schroeder • Theresa Schoenfeld • Judy Schuckit • Eugene Schwartz • Anna Scipione • Bob Scott • Ira Sharp • Joanne Sharp • Donna Shaw • Glenn Sherman • Terry Sinnott • Stuart Smith • Tom Sohn • Jeanne Spadoni • Warren Spieker • Carol Steblay • Barbara Stegman • Jim Stelluti • Stevenson Susie • Nancy Stoke • Randall H. Stoke • Linda/Walt Strangman • JoAnne/Jim Stricklin • T. Pat Stubbs • Jeffrey Sturgis • Merna Sturgis • Joe Sullivan • Barb Sumner • Denise Sunseri • Annisa Snyder • Linda Teague • Francesco Tedeschi • Don Terwilliger • Kiki/John Thorson • Susan Tipton • Beverly Toth • Tensia Trejo • Jim Tucker • Diane Uke • Piper Underwood • Karen Vafiadis • Karen VanderVorst • Carol Vernon • Lina Waage • Molli Wagner • Udo Wahn • Lesley Waite • Zelda Waxenberg • Nancy Weare • Darrese Webb • Jill Weitzen MacDonald • Pat Welsh • Donna West • Betty Wheeler • Gary Wheeler • Ariela Wilcox • Karen Wilson • Alice Winn • Betsy Winsett • Jacqueline Winterer • Jackie/Jeff Workman • Edward Yuskiewicz • Midge/Deb Zarling/Lyons • Jenelle Zingg • Bob Zizka • Lucy Zizka • Linda Zweig

Del mAr’S APPrOxImATely 350 VOlUNTeerS: The beST Of The beSTVirginia Lawrence | Caminito Del Rocio

On Thursday, September 18 Mayor Lee Haydu and City Council Members Al Corti, Don Mosier, Sherryl Parks, and Terry Sinnott honored Del Mar Volunteers at the Powerhouse. As stated in their invitation “the City of Del Mar is blessed

with talented, involved residents who contribute their time, talents, and skills in making Del Mar a wonderful place to live, work, and play.” The City partnered with Del Mar Rendezvous restaurant to cater the event.

hOWbOUT yOU TAKe A TUrNCity Advisory Committee Vacancies October

Interested in volunteering in your City? The City of Del Mar invites its residents to volunteer on a

board or commission to provide input in a variety of areas. The City is currently soliciting for interested persons to fill the following committee vacancies:

Business Support Advisory Committee Two (2) Vacancies – Committee Members

Traffic and Parking Advisory Committee One (1) Vacancy - Commercial Retail Member

Interested citizens should complete a Citizen Interest Form and submit it to the City of Del Mar’s Administrative Services Department. Visit http://www.delmar.ca.us/volunteer to complete the form and see the deadlines. Forms should be submitted to the City of Del Mar, Administrative Services Department, 1050 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014.


Photo Betty Wheeler

Photo Sean Capshaw Resolusean Photography.

DWIghT SOUNDINgSDwight Worden | Seaview Avenue

All you Sandpiper

readers know the council canceled the November election, so Terry Sinnott and I will be appointed to the council on December 2nd. I am committed, however, to engage the community as if there were an election.

I’ve been out walking

neighborhoods (on my bike actually), chatting with folks, and leaving door hangers for those I miss. As of this writing Terry and I have held neighbor coffee/chat sessions, and we have more scheduled. I held a kickoff event on September 6 that was well attended by 50+ people.

I am attending advisory committee meetings when I can to meet folks and get up to speed. I’m watching the council meetings on TV, I’m meeting with community leaders, and I have had productive meetings with the City Manager and Planning Director to discuss issues, with more such meetings planned. Whew—I guess I knew this would be work, but so far I’m loving it!

Terry and I are also working with the Del Mar Foundation to have a “meet your councilmembers” event for the newer voters in town. Records show almost 30% of Del Mar’s registered voters have been here two years or fewer, so we hope to engage these newer voters.

Overall, the feedback from my “non-campaign activities” confirms that people love Del Mar and care deeply about its future. I’m hearing interest in the City Hall project, the sidewalk projects, the lagoon, downtown, Alvarado house, Watermark, rail platforms, parking and traffic, and other topics of the day.

OFFICE HOURS: I’ll be holding “meet the new councilmember” office hours on two Wednesdays in October at Del Mar City Hall in the Annex, 1050 Camino Del Mar (the building in back). Dates: Oct 22, 2-4 pm, and Oct 29, 4-6 pm. Stop by—no appointment necessary—feel free to just pop in to chat or share what is on your mind. Don’t leave me lonely!

Hope to see you soon!

Terry SOUNDINgS Terry Sinnott | Nob Avenue

I am not running for office. But I am working as if there were an election. Thanks to the generosity of local

residents, I am participating in a series of neighborhood “wine and cheese” early evening meetings throughout Del Mar. Usually there are 20 to 30 people; local neighbors wanting to talk about Del Mar issues. Both Dwight Worden and I are attending each event and presenting our thoughts on the big concerns and opportunities facing Del Mar, and then we open it up to questions. It is a great opportunity to find out what is on peoples’ minds.

The subjects we cover vary widely. But my message is the same. There are some key decisions the community needs to make in the near future. All of them require your input.

First, what kind of city hall/town hall should we build? We have to move out of the old city hall. It is now a matter of defining the community’s needs, and what is financially prudent.

Second, we will be reaching out into the community in 2015 to create a master plan for the Shores Park. Third, we hope to solve our parking problems by addressing the specific needs of residents, employers and visitors.

And we have to make sure our budget is balanced and we continue to improve our infrastructure …. streets, roads, and utilities.

So far we have only held two of the seven neighborhood meetings. But feedback has been very good so far. Here are some examples:

“Don’t delay the City Hall. It needs to get done. Just move forward!”

“We want more traffic enforcement; especially to stop bicyclists who ignore the traffic stops.”

“Protect our lagoons.”

“We need to improve the south end of town.”

If you have some feedback for the City Council, we need to hear from you.

Please give us a call.

lISTeN UP, CITy COUNCIl!


Lorna Jane’s fashion is meant to motivate you to look good and feel good through an active daily routine. And that habit of activity can be fulfilled at the adjoining gym-studio where certified instructors lead vinyasa and sculpt yoga, mat pilates, post-natal shape-up, cardio boxing classes and more, with one complimentary class offered every day. Enrollment in the classes for a maximum of 12 is first come, first served by calling or sending an email to reserve your place. Coming soon will be a nutrition component with educational talks, food demonstrations and locally-made refrigerated health drinks.

When walking into Lorna Jane’s, there is no doubt that this is a customer-centric business. Lorna Jane’s approach to its business is surrounded by the principles of Move, Nourish, Believe – offering products and services to encourage a life of regular activity and healthy nourishment. Del Mar’s Store Manager, Kristen Lopez is an exceptionally engaging ambassador for Lorna Jane’s community-based business strategy. Kristen sees her job as working for the community in which her store resides and also to cross-pollinate with Del Mar’s other retail stores.

If the least that you want is a daily lift of spirits, step into Lorna Jane’s and get an infusion of warmth from either Kristen or Lina Hernandez, Assistant Store Manager. Lorna Jane’s is our newest drop-in center. Regardless of what you do there, be prepared to view yourself more fabulous when you leave.

1555 Camino del Mar, #112. Call 858-509-4830 to reserve classes or e-mail [email protected].

hellO, mATe! lOrNA JANecontinued from page 5

CANDID CAmerA SeeINg reDDave Druker | 10th Street

In 2003, the City Council approved the installation of four red-light cameras at two intersections. At the time

of installation, the city was concerned with the potential serious accidents caused by the “running of red lights” and the potential for income. The potential for income never came to fruition as the cost of the cameras, and moreover the cost of processing the tickets exceeded the revenue provided by the tickets issued.

Over time, the intersections at Via de la Valle/Camino del Mar and Camino del Mar and 4th St./Del Mar Heights have become safer as drivers have become more aware of the red light cameras. Also the standards for enforcing the tickets have become more rigorous and demand that the cameras be upgraded to enhanced digital. Finally, the review of the tickets must be completed by an authorized officer.

The camera rental costs are $56,790 per year, the costs for review are $65,000 per year and the expected revenues for FY are about $40,000 per year. The contract for these cameras is due to expire in 2016.

On Monday, September 15 the City Council authorized the city manager to revise the contract with Redflex Traffic Systems to upgrade the system and determine if another intersection was appropriate for red light cameras. The City Council also requested that a full report be created that would help the next council to determine if the contract should be renewed once it expires in 2016. The report requested will include a study of the safety impacts of the red light cameras.

WelCOme bACK, mArKJacqueline Winterer | Ocean View Avenue

Mark Ochenduszko was hired by the San

Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Authority as interim Director for the River Park. Mark Ochenduszko will replace Dick Bobertz and Susan Carter.

Dick Bobertz has served as Director since 1998. Susan Carter is the Park present Deputy Director and has served since 1988. She has

held that position soon after the formation of the River Park.

The new interim director will take his job on October 1st.

The people in Del Mar will remember that Ochenduszko was interim manager of the City of Del Mar in 2010.

VOlUNTeer bOArDS AND COmmISSIONS IN Del mAr

Adopt-A-Spot • Business Support Advisory Committee • CERT Volunteers • Del Mar Community Connections • Del Mar Farmers Market • Del Mar Foundation • Del Mar Garden Club • Del Mar Historical Society • Del Mar Housing Corporation • Del Mar Rose Society • Del Mar TV Foundation • Del Mar Village Association • Design Review Board • Fairgrounds Master Plan Committee • Finance Committee • Friends of Del Mar Parks • Friends of the Powerhouse • Friends of the Del Mar Library • Housing Element Advisory Committee • Neighborhood Emergency Support Team (NEST) • Parks and Recreation Committee • Planning Commission • San Diego County Water Authority Representative • San Dieguito Double Track Project Committee • San Dieguito Lagoon Committee • Shores Advisory Committee • Sustainability Advisory Board • Traffic and Parking Advisory Committee


magic in the moonlight

bOZO 2: free The beAChDwight Worden | Seaview Avenue

In last month’s issue we told the story of how beach encroachments were removed by a citizen’s initiative which voters approved overwhelmingly. This resulted in the City Council enactment of the Beach Overlay Zone Ordinance. Dwight Worden was a key figure in the entire process and provided legal representation to citizens and the city throughout the process. Below are some of Worden’s recollections of what happened.

1. The encroachments had appeared over decades in Del Mar, dating back to before the City was incorporated in 1959. During these early years, there were so few beach users and so much sand, even though many of the encroachments were never legally permitted, it drew little attention or concern.

2. In the 1970’s we began to see serious sand loss and we experienced some severe winter storms that did damage to encroachments and some houses. It was in the storms of the 70’s and early 1980’s that much rip rap was placed on the beach by owners, sometimes overnight, without any permits or approval, as they attempted to protect their homes. Essentially all of this rip rap was improperly placed, i.e. it was dumped on the beach when it needs to be engineered, sloped, fit together, and buried to be effective.

3. While the owners’ claims were for emergency protection, it was clear that for some another motivation was to enhance their privacy by privatizing public property. As beach use increased, some owners didn’t like having the public so close to their homes.

4. When the South Coast Land Company did the original beach subdivision creating the streets and beach front lots in the early 1900’s, it created a 15 foot wide public sidewalk running on the beachfront side of these lots. It was in the early days of few cars and was intended to be a way for folks to get from their lots to the train station on foot. This sidewalk was public. In most blocks the private property

ShOrT TAKeS ON fIlmBen Nyce | Via Latina

“Love Is Strange,”

written and directed by Ira Sachs, is a touching examination of the fate of two gay men of advanced years. Ben (John Lithgow) and George (Alfred Molina) have been together for 39 years and finally decide to get married. But George loses his job with a Catholic school as a result and Ben’s retirement doesn’t cover living expenses and they must sell their apartment. The relentless pressure of the New York real-estate market forces them to live apart with family and friends. George winds up on the couch of two hard-partying cops and Ben with his sister’s daughter (Marisa Tomei) and family. They don’t see much of each other anymore though they’re deeply attached.

Ben rescues himself from full-on depression by going up on the roof and painting cityscapes. The film’s painterliness becomes evident; the camera carefully notices different textures of light and shape as it follows Ben’s searching eye. Christos Voudouris’ cinematography is especially telling here. But Ben is occupying one of his nephew Joey’s bunk beds and Joey is pissed at this invasion of his privacy. At 16 he’s going through his own difficult passages of growing up. No one has privacy, especially Joey’s mom who is trying to write a novel. When Ben and George do meet in a crowded public space, Ben’s decline becomes apparent. In our last glimpse of him as he starts

down the subway stairs we see a stooped, frail old man. George finally finds a rent-controlled apartment they could afford but it’s too late for Ben. The performances of Lithgow and Molina are full of tenderness and love.

Woody Allen’s films often border on parody. In “Magic in the Moonlight” he’s doing a partial throwback to the sophisticated drawing room comedies of the ‘30s and ‘40s. Colin Firth at his wittiest and most abrasive plays Stanley, a magician who imagines he can spot faking a mile away. He’s lured to southern France by his pal Howard who has found a medium, Sophie (Emma Stone), who is conning a rich heiress. Stanley attempts to unmask Sophie but ends up falling in love with her. It’s all very complicated and full of twists but it doesn’t fly very far. Compared to “Blue Jasmine” it’s a throwaway effort.

Nyce taught literature and film at USD. He authored “Satyajit Ry” and “Scorcese Up Close.”



brINgINg AlVArADO hOme Seagrove Park or elsewhere? Larry Brooks | Del Mar Historical Society

The Del Mar Historical Society has a collection of more than 3000 photos, from 1885 to the present,

and numerous collections of papers, including Nancy Ewing’s notes for Del Mar Looking Back, Gene Schwartz’s notes from 20 years of newspaper columns, and background info, written, visual and audio, for our more than twenty oral histories. These materials belong to the

people of Del Mar, and DMHS is the custodian.

A primary mission of DMHS is to bring Del Mar’s history to the public in a place where they can view artifacts, writings, photos, and listen to voices in a facility that represents the life Del Mar residents lived more than 100 years ago. That place must meet the mission of preservation and education. DMHS has owned Alvarado House since 1985, and it has resided on the fairgrounds since 1989, where it can fulfill our mission only three weeks of the year.

The Del Mar Historical Society believes that by placing the Alvarado House in southern end of Seagrove Park, nestled among the existing trees, the public would enjoy the easy access to an important link with Del Mar’s past.

Please tell us what you think! [email protected]

ended at the sidewalk, except in Sandy Lane and in the 17th street block where the lot lines were the mean high tide line. So, the encroachments in most cases were across the public sidewalk and beyond onto the beach.

5. The city tried to help beach front owners protect themselves against storms and wave attacks and actually got coastal permits and graded a sand berm in front of beach front homes for several years during the winters in the 1970’s and 80’s. And, the city tried the long guard tube, an experimental beach front protective device, but it was punctured by a tractor and failed. What the coastal engineers recommended was either engineered rip rap or a re curved state of the art seawall. The coastal commission wouldn’t sign off on the rip rap option because it extended too far onto the public beach (it had to go a certain depth and then out about 30 feet in most cases, with a base of filter cloth and other technicalities), so what ended up in the Beach Protection initiative (the BPI) was the requirement for a state of the art re curved seawall on private property, or at most with a 5 foot encroachment where circumstances warranted. In most cases what got built were seawalls with a 2.5 foot encroachment, i.e. 5 foot wide walls centered on the BPI line.

6. What had been dedicated to the Del Mar Civic Association, the group of beach front owners, as part of the original subdivision was the “lot” west of the sidewalk, i.e., the beach itself to the mean high tide line. This lot was later deeded to the city by the Civic Association. And, it was discovered that the mean high tide line was actually way inland of where it was shown on the subdivision maps, in some cases running through people’s living rooms! So the compromise reflected in the BPI and in lawsuit settlements was that beach front owners would give up their claims beyond the BPI line, and the City and state lands commission would accept the BPI as the dividing line between public and private property, giving up any public claim inboard of that line based on a claim that the mean high tideline had migrated into someone’s living room.

7. As beach use demand rose in the 70s and beyond, and the beach continued to shrink from sand loss, and things got to the point where sections of the beach could not be passed by the public at high tide—portions of the beach were either armored or blocked. This lack of access didn’t sit well with many.

8. The beauty of the BPI was that it avoided litigating where the property lines were, as they were very hard to determine, with shifting mean high tide lines, poor old records, etc. Instead, the BPI took the approach of creating a setback line, not a property line. It drew a line in the sand and said in effect--it doesn’t matter where the ownership line is, you cannot build beyond this line. Just like we all have a front yard setback in which we cannot build even though we own the ground, the BPI created a beach front setback line. The BPI allowed encroachments across this setback line of up to 5 feet if the owner could prove it was engineeringly necessary (it sometimes was to anchor proper footings, etc. for the seawall) and if the owners would help pay for protection across the public street ends. The BPI called for rent payments

for all encroachments but the city accepted street end seawalls in lieu of rent. The city also encouraged owners in a given block to work together so we would get full block solutions, including street ends. In most cases this worked and in a few cases the city facilitated assessment districts to help the owners pay over time. Under the BPI the city also gave other inducements to comply--expedited permit processing, fee waivers or reductions, the city did the CEQA review if the owner proposed a conforming seawall, etc. The idea was carrot and stick--remove your encroachments and build a conforming seawall and the city will help. In most cases it worked as owners complied, sometimes reluctantly, but when they figured out compliance was cheaper than litigation, and learned that their team was losing all the lawsuits, most fell in line.

9. One aspect of the BPI that was important was its provisions for abatement of non-conforming encroachments. It declared everything--walls, patios, living rooms, rip rap, whatever, that was across the line to be “non-conforming” and subject to abatement after a reasonable period of time to recoup the economic value of the encroachment up to a maximum of ten years. Importantly, the time period for measuring economic value went back to the time of installation. Most of the encroachments were so old (more than 10 years) that they

bOZO 2: free The beAChcontinued from page 1



OverDrive icon

bOOK COrNereborrow from the ebranch Virginia Lawrence | Caminito Del Rocio

When asked if the advent of eBooks has had any effect

on the bricks and mortar branch library at 13th Street in Del Mar, Librarian Polly Cipparrone says NO. The checkout rate of physical library materials (e.g. books, DVDs, CDs) by the Library’s approximately 13,000 library card holders seems to be holding steady.On the other hand, the popularity of the San Diego County Library’s 5-year-

old eBook collection with Del Mar Library customers is burgeoning. The checkout rate for eBooks in 2013 rose by 51%, and in 2014 by 91%. The appeal of this program may hinge on the fact that one can check out eBooks from home or while travelling. For those who have spent a bundle buying eBooks, the idea of borrowing them could be enticing, if not compelling.

The Del Mar Library offers eBooks, eAudio books, digital magazines, and over 400 digitally formatted children’s picture books. You can check out up to 10 eBooks at a time. The default checkout time is 14 days though you can opt for 7 days or 21. Titles are returned automatically. If a title is unavailable, you can place a hold on it.

Setting up your computer or portable device You can read eBooks on either the Kindle app or the OverDrive Media Console app. Both apps can be downloaded FREE from iTunes. Polly reports that a large majority of eBook borrowers have told her they prefer to use the Kindle app which can be used either online or off. If you want to use the Kindle app, download it before you visit the eLibrary.

borrowing an ebook• First, go to the San Diego County Library (SDCL) website: www.sdcl.org. Click on the “eLibrary” button on the left side of the home page. Then, click on the “eBooks” button and select “OverDrive.” You are now on SDCL’s OverDrive website. (OverDrive is the web service that hosts the Library’s eBooks.)

• Next, from the SDCL OverDrive website, search for eBooks you are interested in. If an eBook is available for you to check out, you will see a “Borrow” button when you click on the book jacket icon. You will be asked to type in your 14-digit SDCL library account number and PIN.

• Finally, choose your preferred format and click

the “Confirm” link in order to check the book out. Follow instructions to download it. If you have the Kindle app, the title will appear instantly in your Kindle library and be automatically deleted when your checkout time is up.

If you need help getting started, call the Del Mar Library (858-755-1666) and schedule an appointment for individual help with staff.

In spite of the presence of SDCL’s growing eBook collection, Polly says she still prefers the feel of a physical book in her hands. She likes being able to see how much she has read by the thickness of the pages between the covers. She does concede, however, that for travel the convenience of eBooks is hard to ignore.

rISINg WATerWater, Sewer and Clean Water ratesDave Druker | 10th Street

Every five years the city needs to determine the changes to Water, Sewer and Clean Water rates. These must be

published in public so that the users of these systems can protest the rates under Proposition 218. If more that 50% of the rate users protest the rates, the city must hold an election to confirm the rates.

As reported last month most of the increases in these rates are due to expected increases in the cost of water, expected increases in the cost of waste water treatment and the cost of compliance for clean water.

Based upon presentations to the City Council on Tuesday, September 2 bi-monthly rates will increase for each of these systems.

Water rates are projected to increase 6% each year and the bi-monthly increase for a typical household customer will be as shown in the table below. Sewer rates are projected to increase between 2.5% and 3%. Clean water rates will also increase between 4.3% and 10.4%.

Bi-monthly increases

Water rates Sewer rates Clean water

2015 $8.80 $5.12 $2.23

2016 $6.82 $5.80 $2.92

2017 $7.23 $4.84 $3.08

2018 $7.66 $5.06 $2.83

2019 $8.12 $5.20 $4.30

The large increase in the first three years is to make up for a deficit in the current clean water account.

In the near future there will be a public workshop to review the rates. Once this workshop is held a protest period will be opened up. If less than 50% of the rate payers protest, then the City Council will have the ability to institute the proposed rates.


Shores Advisory Committee members, left to right, Sissy Alsabrook, Cathy Asciutto, Lina Waage, Nate McCay, Judd Halenza and Council

liason Terry Sinnott listen to presentation by Shores Park Master Plan Consultant finalist.Photo courtesy City of Del Mar.

were subject to immediate legal abatement. It was through this abatement process that the city was able to remove many of the encroachments from the beach, after about a dozen lawsuits challenging the BPI, all of which the city won or successfully settled.

10. The BOZO (Beach Overlay Zone Ordinance) was actually the name given to the draft ordinance the City Council was working on. The name of the citizen initiative was the Beach Protection Initiative, or BPI.

11. I think most beach front owners are now happy, or at least accept the outcome. Yes, some lost property they thought was theirs, but they now have protection from storms that works in the form of properly designed

bOZO 2: free The beAChcontinued from page 13

PICK PerfeCTAnn Gardner | Via Latina

Last month the Shores Advisory Committee (SAC) met with a finalist for the City’s Park Master Plan Consultant

and left their early morning meeting excited about the possibilities for encouraging community input and developing a sustainable, fulfilling vision for the five-acre site. The Committee is looking for a consultant/team that will optimize identification of uses, reflect local needs and character and envision long term desirability. Examples of parks designed to meet these goals were discussed and included Cottonwood Creek Park in Encinitas, the Solana Beach Coastal Rail Trail and Waterfront Park at the County Administration Building downtown. Assistant to the City Manager and Committee staffer Kristen Crane outlined a possible 12-18 month process of community engagement that she described as Discover, Imagine and Create. Ten contenders for the Master Plan Consultant contract have been narrowed down to four and a final selection is expected at a City Council meeting in October. SAC meetings are held every second Wednesday morning of the month beginning at 8 a.m. at the City Hall Annex, and all residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the Shores Park planning process. The committee has eight community members and is chaired by Art Olson. Piper Underwood and Judd Halenza have been serving as their Consultant Selection sub-committee with Council liaisons Sherryl Parks and Terry Sinnott. For all SAC member names, agendas and minutes and to sign up for updates go to the City’s website www.delmar.ca.us/shorespark.

and installed seawalls, and they have clear title to their property on the inboard side of those walls with no worry that a claim might be made inboard of that. There are still a few sections of beach to address but the vast majority of the beach that had been covered or blocked by encroachments, covering many acres, has been returned to the public through successful implementation of the BPI.

VIllAge PrOTeCTIONAnthony Corso | Stratford Court

Del Mar residents often leave for an extended period of time on vacations, sabbaticals or to take advantage

of professional work opportunities. They return with the expectation that the “village” will have become a “densified city” given their memories of the developmental pressures being exerted upon coastal communities.

To their amazement the character and scale of the community is still intact, the canyons, lagoons and other natural features still in place. The overall environment withstands and continues to inspire. The reason for such enduring phenomena is not the result of some mysterious force, but rather due to the determination and dedication of elected officials, and the struggles of planning commissioners and local residents who support and endorse planning and design review controls.

Del Mar has a history of appointing local residents to the “Planning Commission”- a group of five volunteers willing to offer recommendations regarding developmental issues. The idea of appointing a group of laymen to make such determinations is said to have originated at the turn of the century when governmental reformers sought to reduce political influence on decisions by creating a planning commission composed of appointed citizens.

As noted, the Planning Commission’s major responsibility is to consider land use matters and offer recommendations to the City Council. Of particular concern is whether or not a development is in consort with the Del Mar Community Plan-- the statement of goals, objectives and policies that embody the Community’s vision of the future. The plan has continued to serve as the official guide in decision-making since its adoption in 1968.

As stated on the Planning Commission’s web-site: The Planning Commission is charged with the administration of the Community Plan, the Zoning Ordinance and review of related plan applications. The Commission conducts public hearings and considers land use applications such as variances, conditional use permits, coastal



Carmel Valley Planning Board members, left to right, Deb Lokanc, Vice Chair Manjeet Ranu, Chair Frisco White, and to the right of consultant Kristen Byrne, Nancy Novak consider draft motion on

proposed One Paseo development. Photo Bertha Leone.

Tree CITy USAAnthony Corso | Stratford Court

The Del Mar City Council recently requested city staff to submit an application to the Arbor Day Foundation

allowing Del Mar to officially become a “Tree City USA.” In so doing the City would join 3,400 other communities that currently hold the title and meet requirements for such designations including: maintaining a tree board or department and granting it the responsibility for writing and implementing an “Urban Forest Plan”; adopting a community tree ordinance: budgeting at least $2.00 per capita on urban forestry and proclaiming and celebrating an Arbor Day as a means of educating the public regarding the value and contribution of trees to environmental quality.

The term “Urban Forest” refers collectively to all trees growing in a community which are both publically and privately owned. Concern for the well-being of such “greenery” has engendered numerous studies and programs meant to protect, maintain and enhance tree life. The national movement referred to as “Tree City USA” has risen out of publically recognized factors threatening trees as well as an awakened understanding of the benefits they offer. The oft-cited threats include: insects and diseases, wildfires, invasive plants, climate change, air pollution and lack of adequate management.

On a positive note the benefits of an urban forest encompass: reducing energy use and the provision of thermal comfort by providing cover and shade; improving air quality by lowering air temperatures and reducing air pollution; affecting climate change by storing carbon emissions within tree tissues; improving water quality by intercepting and removing the flow of harmful substances; significantly reducing noise with proper planting design; creating and enhancing animal and plant habitats; and remediation of contaminated soils and landfills by absorbing, transforming of contaminant. Most noteworthy, there is considerable evidence that urban forests contribute to the economic vitality and character of a city and promote residents’ health and well-being.

Some Californian communities have become formidable advocates of the values and standards of Tree City USA and have gone so far as to identify large parcels of vacant land as potential sites for future urban forests.

Perhaps the goal for such activities might be to create a “City within a Forest.”

Del mAr DOeS PASeOAnn Gardner | Via Latina

Highlights from Del Mar City Council’s September 15 letter to the San Diego Planning Commission on the

One Paseo development and its Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) include:

“TRAFFIC: Because the Del Mar Heights Bridge widening necessary to mitigate the project’s impacts is the jurisdiction of Caltrans it will remain a significant impact. Impacts to the Del Mar Heights Road/Interstate 5 ramp meters will result in drivers rerouting to the Camino del Mar coastal corridor, as they currently do when either the freeway or the onramps are congested. Camino del Mar is subject to horrendous congestion when I-5 fails to function at an acceptable level of service. We request the exploration of project alternatives that reduce the unmitigable impact on regional traffic continue.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE: Currently Del Mar’s Fire Department Station 1 has a significant call volume that responds to City of San Diego needs to supplement San Diego Fire Department Station 24 (east of the proposed development). An increase in calls due to the new development will exacerbate this current situation and should be analyzed and mitigated. The study must also take into account seasonal impacts to traffic, especially at freeway ramps during the San Diego Fair and Thoroughbred Race Meets.

NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER: Del Mar strongly agrees that the Revised Project continues to be significantly inconsistent with the low-scale and low-intensity character of the immediate vicinity and recommends that no development exceed the proposed densities and height limits of the previously analyzed Mixed-Use Retail alternative (835,000 square ft. compared to 1.4 million) or similar alternatives.

SUMMARY: Del Mar encourages the City of San Diego to continue to work with the applicants and the Carmel Valley Community Planning Group to achieve a viable main-street concept that achieves the goals of the project but with significantly reduced impacts in a manner similar to, or even greater than, the Mixed Use Retail alternative. We believe further development of project alternatives could provide for a viable project that becomes a model example of the City of Villages strategy and reduce the concerns of the neighboring jurisdiction.”


St. James Padres circa 1929. Courtesy Del Mar Historical Society.

St. James Church circa 1950. Courtesy Del Mar Historical Society

DOUble CeNTeNNIAlJeff Barnouw | Amphitheatre Drive

By happy coincidence Del Mar acquired a branch of the San Diego County Library and a new building for its

Church, St James Catholic, in the same year 100 years ago. As the library has occupied that building since 1996, the two trajectories have merged. A double Centennial.

A Bit of History

In 1914 the Diocese of San Diego commissioned a church building from John Austin, also the architect of the old Del

Mar Hotel, for a parish founded in 1911. The new Church was built on the corner of Camino Del Mar and 13th Street.

In the same year, 1914, Haidee L. Howard, Clerk of the Del Mar School District, successfully

petitioned San Diego County to establish a library in Del Mar. For its early years the library was located in the home of its first librarian, Mrs. E. J. Hindle. In 1924 it moved to the home of well-known writer Lee Shippey on the bluff north of 8th Street. Later locations were in various stores on 15th Street, including a small room in the Jefferson Arcade. In 1957 it was at 1214 Camino Del Mar (a roomier 273 sq.ft. which allowed a doubling of circulation), and in 1961 it moved to 317 14th Street (1400 sq.ft.). It spent some time in the old Del Mar Plaza near Zel’s Liquor Store, and in 1977 found its penultimate resting place (for almost 20 years) in the 2400 sq. ft. modular trailer, which is now the City Hall Annex.

To focus again on the building itself, in 1966 St. James Catholic relocated to Solana Beach, and the building became the Albatross restaurant, then Pancho’s, and finally headquarters of the Omni company. In 1993 was acquired

development permits, zoning ordinance interpretations and determinations of allowable uses.

More specifically, the areas of Commission concern include: The accommodation of appropriate land uses needed to serve current and future population; the application of zoning regulations and modification of same when required; the development of housing of varying types and densities to accommodate alternative families; the provision of an adequate transportation system including public transit arrangements, road design and location; protection of environmentally sensitive open space,

VIllAge PrOTeCTIONcontinued from page 15

by the City, expressly to serve as the home of the library.

In the fiscal year 2013-14 the local branch had the second highest per capita circulation among the 33 branches of the County library system. Let us hope that our Library will be happy in its current recently renovated home for another 100 years.

Centennial Celebration

There will be a 100th anniversary party on Saturday, November 1, from 10 am at the Library. Among those scheduled to attend are County Supervisor Dave Roberts, Del Mar Mayor Lee Haydu, Councilmembers Don Mosier and Sheryl Parks, the Deputy Director of the County Library Donna Ohr, and the Reverend John H. Howard of Saint James – Saint Leo Catholic Church of Solana Beach. Chuckles the Clown will also be there, with a concert at noon featuring guitarist Lisa Sanders. The party (with refreshments) is organized by our new librarian, Polly Cipparrone, joined by staff members Pat Selkowitz, Jennifer Runge, Thomas Pierce and Linda Farmer, as well as former head librarian Gretchen Schmidt, who retired at the beginning of 2014.

provision of public parks and access to open spaces; the development of quality resident –oriented businesses which serve the local community; the review and approval of 16 specific plans covering areas or districts and a set of unique requirements beyond those found in conventional zoning.

As evident from the listing of duties and responsibilities, planning commissioner service often means long hours, extensive public meetings, all-encompassing research conducted with staff members and others, as well as the scrutiny and analysis of proposals to derive reasoned conclusions.


Photo Di Holker

lOCAVOreS DelIghTmushroom risottoDi Holker | Coast Boulevard

Ingredients

8 cups chicken broth

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided * Freskos

1 onion, divided * Shaner Farms * Valdiva

2 garlic cloves, minced, divided * Shaner Farms

1 pound, assorted fresh mushrooms, wiped of grit, sliced * Kawano

2 bay leaves

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped * Shaner Farms * Blue Heron

2 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper

2 cups Arborio rice

½ cup dry white wine

½ cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated * Moonlight Artisan Cheese

Fresh Italian parsley for garnish

Directions

Heat the chicken broth in a medium saucepan and keep warm over low heat.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ½ onion and 1 clove garlic, cook, stirring until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the fresh mushrooms, herbs and butter. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned, season with salt and pepper. Sauté 1 minute remove from heat and set aside.

Coat a saucepan with remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Sauté the remaining ½ onion and garlic clove. Add the rice and stir quickly until it is well-coated and opaque 1 minute. Begins to smell a bit nutty. This step cooks the starchy coating and prevents the grains from sticking. Stir in wine and cook until nearly evaporated.

Now, with a ladle, add 1 cup of the warm broth and cook, stirring, until the rice has absorbed the liquid. Add the remaining broth one cup at a time. Continue to cook and stir, allowing the rice to absorb each addition of broth before adding more. The risotto should be slightly firm and creamy, not mushy. Transfer the mushrooms to the rice mixture. Stir in Parmesan cheese, cook briefly until melted. Top with chopped parsley before serving.

Serves 4-6

STOry POleSDebbie Hall | Escondido

As a child Debbie lived in the house that was demolished across the street from Joy Gerber on Stratford Court.

The Story Poles appeared overnight

taking over the yard

to redefine a space,

a coalition of insurgents

plotting an overthrow

of a house past its prime.

They mocked its rich history

and whispered in the wind,

Out with the old, in with the new.

In the front yard the old Sycamore

was defenseless against the disdain

broadcast by rigid PVC poles

lashed together

by a strong synthetic cord

of future modernization

with no room for trees

which occupy too much space.

The old house watched,

receded into backstory,

played a last reel

of family memories

as it tried to accept

a near future

of being redefined as scrap.

Perhaps some of its pieces

would find their way

into a found art project

or be re-purposed as a park bench

that might hold

other stories as people sat

and rested their hands

on its warm weathered wood.

Or perhaps it would settle

for giving momentary

comfort, a balm against

a cold night, as it shrinks

in the fireplace shadows

before being redefined

as coal dust.


exTrA COPIeS Of The SANDPIPer are available at: City Hall, the Library, the Del Mar Community Building, the Powerhouse, and

the Carmel Valley Library; The Gym at Del Mar on Jimmy Durante Blvd; the Solana Beach Library and the Solana Beach Community Center.

Del mAr COmmUNITy CAleNDArhighlights for October 2014

This month’s calendar was compiled by Shelby Weaver, a Torrey Pines high School Senior.

Del Mar Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday, 1-4 p.m. in the City Hall parking lot. Purchase fresh, locally grown produce, flowers, eggs and many other products.

DMCC: Computer tutoring for Seniors every Monday beginning October 6, Del Mar Community Building, 225 9th St. 9:00 a.m.

DMF: Young Del Mar Happy Hour at La Tienda, Wednesday, October 1st, 6:30 p.m , La Tienda,1342 Camino del Mar

First Thursday: Thursday, October 2nd, The Intrepid Shakespeare Company “Macbeth”, at the Del Mar Powerhouse Community Center, 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. wine and cheese. We’re sorry, but this series is sold out.

Del Mar Library: Drought Tolerant Plants Talk, with Jim, manager of Armstrong Nursery Del Mar, Friday, October 3, 10:00 am., Del Mar Library

DMVA: Taste of Del Mar Art and Stroll, Sunday, October 5th. Event includes a FREE art stroll from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in downtown Del Mar and a TICKETED restaurant taste from noon to 3:00 p.m. www.delmarmainstreet.com for more information.

Del Mar City Council Meetings: Monday, October 6th and, Monday, October 20th, 6:00 p.m. -240 10th St.

DMCC: TLC-too, Lunch Program, Tuesday October 7th and 21st, 12:00-1:30. Del Mar residents only. Please RSVP at DMCC.dmcc.cc or #858.792.7565. Door-to-door transportation available.

DM Library: Toddler Story Time, Ages 1-2. Stories, songs and finger plays for toddlers, Tuesday, October 7th, 21st and 28th, 10:30 a.m.

DMVA: Del Mar History Committee monthly meeting, Tuesday, October 7th, 5:00- 6:00 p.m, 1104 Camino del Mar Ste. 1

Del Mar Foundation: “Water Worries” talk by Dr. Daniel R. Cayan, Research Meteorologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Tuesday, October 7th, 6:00 p.m. Powerhouse Community Center, 1658 Coast Blvd.

DMF Cultural Arts Committee: Monthly meeting., Wednesday, October 8th, 8:30 a.m., PCC, 1658 Coast Blvd.

DMCC: Travel Club meeting, Thursday, October 9th, 10:00 a.m., 225 9th St.

DMCC: Board meeting, Saturday October 11th, 9:00 a.m., City Hall Annex

Del Mar Library: Jigsaw puzzles for kids with Ms. Gretchen, Saturday, October 11th, 10:00 a.m.

DM Planning Commission: Monthly meeting, Tuesday, October 14th, 6:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. 240 10th St.

DMVA Design Committee: Monthly meeting, Wednesday, October 15th, 11:00 a.m, 1104 Camino del Mar ste. 1

DMVA: Business Assistance Committee Meeting, Wednesday, October 15th, 8:30 -9:30 a.m, 1104 Camino del Mar Ste. 1

DMF: Young Del Mar Committee meeting, Thursday, October 16th, 10:30-12:00,Del Mar Library

Del Mar Library: Book talk with local author Matthew Wolf. TPHS alum talks about his first book in a new series, The Knife’s Edge, Sunday, October 19th, 2:00 p.m

DMF: Bluegrass and Beyond Concerts presents Laurie Lewis and the Right Hands, Sunday, October 19th 7:00 pm, with doors at 6:30 p.m. at Powerhouse.

Historical Society: Meeting, Tuesday, October 21st, 5:00 p.m, 225 9th St.

Design Review Board Meeting: Wednesday, October 22nd, 6:00 p.m., 240 10th St.

DM Library: Wednesday, October 22nd, 6:30 p.m. PJ Story time. Wear your PJ’s to the library for story time!

DMVA: Monthly Board of Directors meeting, Thursday, October 23rd, 8:30-10:00 a.m, City Hall Annex

DMF: Halloween Dog Parade, Sunday October 26th, 3:00 p.m. Powerhouse Park

Friends of the San Dieguito River Valley Board: monthly meeting, Monday, October 27th, 7:00 p.m.at The Annex, 1054 Camino del Mar

DMCC: Romeo Men’s Lunch Club, Tuesday, October 28th, 12:00 noon, Sbicca Bistro, 215 15th st. Reservations required: #858-792-7565 or [email protected]

DM Business Support Advisory Commission: Tuesday, October 28th, 9:00 a.m., City Hall Annex

DMF: Board Mtg., Thursday, October 30th, 8:00 a.m, 225 9th St.

The Del Mar Rose Society: Meeting, Thursday, October 30th, 6:30 p.m., at the Powerhouse in Del Mar, 1658 Coast Blvd.


Standard MailU.S. Postage

PAIDEncinitas, CAPermit No. 5

SANDPIPERDEL MAR’S COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014

DATED MATERIAL

VISIT The SANDPIPer ONlINe!This month’s complete issue plus web exclusives, colored pix, photo essays, useful links, alerts, and much more!

www.delmarsandpiper.org

Photo Bud Emerson

PASeO: NO NO NO NO NO! Ann Gardner | Via Latina

With an 11 to 2 vote the Carmel Valley Community Planning Board rejected the proposed 1.45 million

sq. ft One Paseo project at Del Mar Heights and El Camino Real and recommended that the City of San Diego ask the applicant to submit a smaller mixed-use project more in keeping with the Community Plan which allows only 500,000 sq, feet. The September 11 meeting and vote was limited to a Question and Answer dialogue between the Board and City of San Diego Development Services Department (DSD) staff only; public input had been taken at an earlier Planning Board meeting. DSD staff has prepared the One Paseo Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) which recommends, based on economic benefits, approving the massive project despite impacts on traffic (a 370% increase) and community character (some nine-story buildings) that cannot be mitigated. The Board questioned staff about their recommendation.

Planning Board: Why are economic considerations weighed heavier than quality of life in a community? How can staff make such a strong recommendation given the significant and unmitigated impacts to our community?

DSD Staff: The Project implements the San Diego General Plan for a Community of Villages concept that promotes more varied housing, villages connected by public transit, pedestrian access and other social elements. We saw the vacant space as an opportunity to establish a new Community Village with a town center in Carmel Valley. On balance we thought the benefits outweighed the impacts

Planning Board: Carmel Valley already has a town center that includes a library, schools, a recreational center, parks, fire and police stations and a low scale pedestrian oriented shopping center plus our share of affordable housing. One Paseo would be a separate enclosed development with out-of-scale buildings, unconnected to our existing center and is car oriented. If public transit is considered an essential piece of the Community Village concept, why are

you supporting a large scale, regional project here where there is no public transit?

DSD: Cal Trans will be building Rapid Transit Bus lanes as part of their expansion of I-5 in 2030 and in the meantime shuttles will serve as a proxy. We grappled with this issue but felt it was a chicken versus egg issue and more density makes transit more viable.

Planning Board: Is the proposed project phased along with Caltrans improvements including the I-5/56 connector at Carmel Valley Road?

DSD: No.

Planning Board: What do we do in the meantime?

DSD: We understand there are conflicts, something you should put forward.

Planning Board: The smaller reduced mixed-use alternative in the FEIR was unfairly dismissed as infeasible. Who determined it was infeasible?

DSD: The Applicant.

Planning Board: Did you see their feasibility studies?

DSD:Yes, the studies seemed reasonable.

At one point, as awareness of the futility of their answers began to set in, DSD staff responded ”You’re not going to like our answer on that either.” Review by a Community Board is part of San Diego’s project approval process; the vote is advisory only to the City Planning Commission and City Council. The Planning Commission is scheduled to hear the project October 2 and the San Diego City Council before the end of the year. Reportedly after the meeting, DSD staff was asked if they would consider the Carmel Valley recommendation and the answer was “no.”

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