1. As a current Planning Commissioner, I approved and strongly support the plan to redevelop downtown Newhall, because it provides the technical framework for creating a transit-oriented, smart-growth neighborhood. However, in early meetings, I identified the challenge to small businesses of rent increases in redeveloped areas. I do not believe the city gave adequate consideration to the upheaval that would be caused by this plan. A transition strategy should have been discussed in the earliest stages of city council debate, and should have taken into account traffic patterns and how they would have affected local businesses. This is one of the reasons I am running for city council: we need more strategic, thoughtful planning.
   

2. •I believe we need to look at re-development or grant funding to help businesses endure during this time of transition.
   

3. •I will support efforts by the City to work with non-profit housing corporations to develop truly affordable replacement housing and new housing in the area.
   

4. •As the area is redeveloped, I will work to protect existing neighborhoods from over-development.
   

I hope this answers your question. If you would like to discuss this further, please call me at (661) 310-3654.

 

Diane Trautman

Back to Position Papers