Dear Council Members:  

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed change to our city ordinance which would require owners of single family residences to acquire a permit to landscape if the project is 2500 square feet or larger. As both a homeowner and developer of new homes in Menlo Park, I urge you to carefully consider the negative impacts of adding yet another layer of restrictions on those who what to beautify and improve their homes. The added cost, which if I understand correctly would average about $3,000, is a significant expense which may preclude many homeowners from applying for a permit, or doing a project at all. I know that there are State mandated requirements which you must abide by and water conservation is an issue we must all deal with, however I would urge you to consider other means by which the city can meet those requirements.  

In addition to the cost, and the onerous process of obtaining a use permit for landscaping I am also very concerned about the severe restrictions placed on planting a lawn which I believe are part of the proposal. We are fortunate to live on almost a half acre parcel and our backyard is regularly filled with neighborhood kids who play all kinds of games on the grass. Yes, it requires water to maintain, however we are willing to pay for the benefit of providing a place for kids to hang out. We will also suffer the consequences of a brown lawn if water rationing is reinstated, but I want to be able to make that choice. I don't want the City making that choice for me and I believe many homeowners in Menlo Park would agree.  

Thank you for your consideration,  

Kimberly  

Kimberly LeMieux
Laurel Homes, Inc.
205 San Mateo Drive
Menlo Park, CA 94025
650-322-6803 Office
650-322-7962 Fax
kim_at_laurelhomesinc.com Received on Tue Dec 15 2009 - 17:57:30 PST