By TR Robertson
The October Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee heard about two topics that will affect Carlsbad for years to come. First was a presentation by Eric Lardy from the City Offices concerning the General Plan for Potential Housing Locations and then from Olivier Brackett about the Master Plan Update concerning the McClellan-Palomar Airport.
Eric Lardy presented a power point presentation that detailed the General Plan for Potential Housing Locations for the City of Carlsbad. The Plan covered the 2021–2029 time frame to deal with forecasted growth in the city and outlying areas. The purpose is to identify sites for housing opportunities. The anticipation is some 3,800 units would be needed and these have been broken into categories, including affordability for higher density sites. Surveys and public outreach have been underway concerning the proposed sites, primarily asking for what is good or bad about the locations. An environmental report will be completed by 2022. No specific development dealing with the proposed sites is underway, just the proposals for potential sites. The sites will be chosen following the specific laws of the city and the state. Some of the proposed sites include areas around the Carlsbad Mall, along Palomar Airport Road and in various residential areas. Those interested can go online and click on an interactive map to look at the proposed sites and look at details like the acreage, type of housing proposed and the potential number of people that would be included in the site. Go to https://records.Carlsbad.org or e-mail scott.donell@carlsbadca.gov with any questions.
The McClellan-Palomar Airport Master Plan Update, under the direction of Director Cal Humphries, began in 2011. The Plan, reported by Olivier Brackett, covers proposals dealing with increasing the length of the current runway and adjustments that would include changing the runway location and extension. The improvement plan covers a 20-year plan. The study includes looking at environmental analysis, benefits for increase of jobs, income for the area and other economic activity. Currently 2,580 jobs are for associated with the Airport complex and by 2036, with various improvements, this number could grow to over 6,000 jobs. The extension of the runway also considers the type of aircraft that would frequent the airport. Current improvements that will be added to the airport include Mammoth and Taos routes, to be added in November and December.
Catherine Magana reported on Job Killer Bills – AB 616 has been vetoed and SB 62 has been signed by the Governor. Google these bills for full details.
From Supervisor Jim Desmond’s Office – A long Supervisor’s meeting was held. One major topic was the placement of sexually violent predators, when released, in the San Diego County area. The Supervisors agree that this should be opposed. Supervisor Desmond voted NO on requiring vaccine shots for new hires in San Diego County.
Matthew Phy from State Senator Patricia Bates Office – the Senator has been appointed to the California Debt & Investment Advisement Commission. Two of the Senators legislative bills have been signed – SB 248 and SB 434. 434, Brandon’s Law, deals with treatment for individuals with addictions. Google the laws for the specifics on each one.
Glen McDonell from State Assemblymember Tasha Boerner Horvath’s Office – A number of the Assemblymember’s bills have been signed or are waiting for signature. These include:
AB 341 – Victims who have been sexually assaulted
AB 66 – Bluff safety
AB 803 – Starter home revitalization
AB 335 – Boats and Marine engine/harbor safety
AB 1295 – Emissions control
AB 122 and AB 1390
Again – google the bills to see the specifics for the bills
The Assemblymember is accepting recommendations for Vets and Service Member Awards – For any questions email Glen.McDonell@asm.ca.gov
Kyle Krahel-Frolander from U.S. Congressman Mike Levin’s Office – The Congressman has visited the sites of the Orange County oil spill reporting that this is an environmental/ecological/economic issue. A reminder that the Congressman voted to eliminate offshore drilling as part of the Build Back better Act. The Congressman is pushing for sand replacement along the area beaches to prevent ongoing erosion. The Congressman is Vice Chair for the Committee for Veterans Affairs and is dealing with post 9/11 vets’ resources and assistance. He is also working on the Impact Aide Bill for improvement for funds for schools on federal land as well as the National Authorization Act Bill part of which deals with pay raises for service men and women.
Bret Schanzenbach, CEO and President of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce – A reminder that tickets are still on sale for the Chamber Awards Ceremony held on October 14th. Go to www.carlsbad.org. The Chamber Happy Hour will be held October 20th at Epigg Brewery in the Business Park. A Peanut Butter Drive is underway and can be turned in at the Happy Hour meeting or to the Chamber of Commerce Office. Those attending are also encouraged to wear Halloween costumes.
