Dear Council members,

        I'm writing about the proposed project to build a water reservoir at Seminary Oaks Park, and ask that the council re-open the process. I support the goal the council has of providing emergency potable water in the event of water supply disruption. However the process for the site selection that was followed had serious flaws and will result in the destruction of our small neighborhood park including the killing of over 100 mature trees, not to mention a significant expense to the city, greater than $24m without providing for adequate emergency water for the residents of Menlo Park.

The problems with the process that resulted in the selection of the Seminary Oaks Park: .

• The two Consultants' recommendations varied widely
• There was no consensus about the best size for the reservoir.
• Environmental concerns weren't properly addressed.
• There was no opportunity for public comment at all. I purchased my home in February 2007 and there was no knowledge of the December 2006 council recommendation in the community.

 I'm hoping the process can be reopened and that the city can consider the full range of requirements for this reservoir and find the most suitable site for it.

• Could the city coordinate/partner with construction projects already planned or struggling for funding, either with the Parks and Recreation Commission or with the County, or with the Menlo or Ravenswood School districts such as the award-winning partnership in Mountain View, where reservoir was built below school sports complex thereby saving the council money and ensuring that emergency water is provided for the residents.

In conclusion I would urge the city to re-open the proposal, set comprehensive goals for providing emergency water storage for all residents, use those goals to create some inclusive criteria for siting the reservoir/s, look at partnering with other agencies or incorporate the requirements into other projects within the city, and to engage the community in the process.

Yours sincerely,
Robyn Denholm

186 Seminary Drive

 Menlo Park 94025   Received on Sun Jun 29 21:08:18 2008