The more things change during the economic crisis, the more they stay the same.
Successful communities are still built on a strong foundation of sustainability, equality, and innovation. These core values provide the most effective local stimulus package to fuel the economic engine for San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
East Palo Alto’s Ravenswood 101/IKEA project and the University Circle developments represent fine examples of sustainable, equitable innovation that provide well-paying, local jobs. Also, the city benefits enormously from the tax revenues. I am grateful that the city and voters had the political leadership and foresight to approve these ambitious projects.
Menlo Park now has the chance to take similar positive economic steps. The Menlo Gateway project proposed by the Bohannon Development Co. of Menlo Park is a prime example of a sustainable, innovative project that would greatly benefit the cities within my supervisorial district and Silicon Valley.
From a jobs and social justice perspective, the project creates a desirable mix of construction, hotel, restaurant, office, and high-tech jobs. Furthermore, the Bohannon family has signed an agreement with JobTrain to offer available jobs to local residents first. This means that residents of the Belle Haven neighborhood and southern San Mateo County will benefit directly from this project.
The Menlo Gateway project will also become a model for sustainable and green development. The project is being built to impeccable environmental standards and will transform the current site into a model for socially responsible design. The green aspects of the project can be seen at www.MenloGateway.com.
Finally, these tough economic times mean difficult budget times for every governmental entity in the state and Bay Area. Tax and fee increases cannot and should not be the only answer to solve our budget shortfalls. We should consider economic opportunities that bring in new revenues for our county, cities and schools. The Menlo Gateway project, like the Ravenswood 101 and University Circle projects, will be a net positive tax benefit to local governments and stimulate the local economy during a difficult time.
This is a challenging time. I continue to hear stories of families struggling to provide for their families. Also, elected leaders everywhere are facing difficult service and job cuts. Yet, challenge represents opportunity, and this project is a tremendous opportunity to provide 21st century jobs, tax revenue, and environmental leadership.
County Supervisor Rose Jacobs Gibson represents Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, Redwood City, and unincorporated North Fair Oaks.
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