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Before Menlo Park officials open the debate regarding what should replace abandoned auto lots along El Camino Real, a consultant plans to talk to the community Wednesday about one potential, although likely controversial, solution: transit-oriented housing.
Dena Belzer, president of Berkeley-based consulting firm Strategic Economics, plans to give a presentation on transit-oriented development — building a mix of high-density homes and commercial space near transit corridors — at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, in the council chambers at the Civic Center, between Laurel and Alma streets.
Environmentalists have pushed Menlo Park to build more apartments and condos near El Camino Real and the Caltrain tracks to prevent suburban sprawl and preserve open space.
But many residents have voiced concerns regarding the potential impacts on traffic and schools caused by a sudden influx of housing near the city’s downtown area.
Ms. Belzer is expected to discuss how other communities have gone about planning for transit-oriented projects, and the opportunities and challenges in building similar projects along El Camino Real in Menlo Park.
Applicants sought for finance panel
Menlo Park is seeking three residents to join the Finance/Audit Committee, an advisory body formed to help improve public understanding of, and access to, city financial information.
To apply, go to MenloPark.org, select “City Commissions,” and click on “commission vacancies.” Applications are also available at the city clerk’s office in the administration building at the Civic Center, 701 Laurel St.
Council members voted 5-0 on Oct. 9 to create the new committee, which is expected to review the city’s annual audits and make sure taxpayers know the city’s fiscal status.
Two committee seats will be for two-year terms and one for three years. The deadline to submit an application is Nov. 27.
Councilmen John Boyle and Richard Cline will also be on the committee.
Meeting canceled
The Menlo Park City Council will not hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 13. Meetings are scheduled to resume Nov. 20.
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