I'm concerned about the location designated for the proposed play area for our neighborhood children. The site is within 30 yards of St. Francis, the most traveled street in the neighborhood and a known thru street for people passing through our wonderful neighborhood. The compost placed on this street was out of control within 24 hours (passerbys dumping stuff), and we have reason to believe that a jungle gym within view of St. Francis will attract similar attention. The picnic tables on the greenbelt of 8400 block of San Benito Way already attracts non-FHA people (and gatherings) on the weekend and in the evening. Why would the FHA board approve something that possibly could have a negative effect on the neighborhood? Even if half the people on the block don't mind, why would you approve something that other people on the block are opposed to?

We propose finding another location that is not visible from the thousands of cars that use St. Francis each day. We recommended to the chair, Kalena Cook, to investigate a plot of land the city owns on Whittier. If there isn't another location that can be considered, we suggest that a play area not be built and that people in our neighborhood continue to use the playground at Sanger (less than one block from the proposed play area) and in other nearby city parks.

We'd like to end by saying that we have two small children and do not oppose the wonderful idea of a neighborhood play area; however, we do strongly believe that a location so close to St. Francis would be a mistake, and if there isn't a suitable alternative location, we have to recommend that the idea be dropped.

Robbin and Rick Wells

By Robbin Wells