South Skyline Association

Dave Keck presented summaries of the January Public Hearings. Notable are the large number of responses indicating a preference for preservation, protection and restoration. Another document, a "justification for the creation of the Preserve" contains much satisfying language about endangered species and the implications of human intrusion, esp in indirect ways as people displace a species that, in turn may displace and impact other species. Language and concepts that may have implications for usage decisions outside the proposed Preserve.

That’s the good news. The Plan continues to recommend for the development of Partridge Farm. Dave Keck presented a document calling for up to 180 parking spaces with 30 walk in campsites (depending on how you read the material), and a "Park Headquarters".

The Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC), a concept that will guide development of the Park was discussed. First, a "baseline" of existing conditions must be established, then the Limits of Acceptable Change are determined, then (the area) is opened to public access, and the "Changes" monitored, and compared to the "set Limits". Access is increased or decreased as appropiate. I asked who/what/how are the Limits of Acceptable Change are determined. Dave Keck’s response was "That’s a good question", but had no better answer. I think we need to monitor the Gen Plan process to be sure that this question is adequately addressed.

When asked if the LAC process will be subject to public review, his answer was NO. My concern is that, without public awareness, the LAC process will be diluted to suit accomodate the pressure to develop.

Dave Keck is promising the rough Preliminary Draft of the General Plan in "May+-", in time for the Adcom to review and make comments before the final Prelimianary Draft is "published" and the clock starts on the period for "public comment". He also agreed to get another Newsletter (edition #4) out in "2 weeks", with another draft for the Purpose of the Park, to include the term "Wildlands..." with "definitions.

Final Park Commission approval is set for late Fall. This will be a Public Hearing; the last chance to get changes made.

BRUCE BETTENCOURT, Friends Of CRSP
(408) 354-5661
BABETTENCO@AOL.COM