Upcoming forums open to public
Vision San Benito is a consortium of concerned citizens that got
together in the wake of the turbulence created by Measure G
– the 2004 ballot initiative that called for voters to enact
three key development restrictions: an annual limit on dwelling
permits capped at 1 percent and a transferable development credit
system; permanent down-zoning of agricultural land to require
20-acre and 160-acre minimums for building ne
w structures; and extensive restrictions for use of agricultural
land.
Upcoming forums open to public
Vision San Benito is a consortium of concerned citizens that got together in the wake of the turbulence created by Measure G – the 2004 ballot initiative that called for voters to enact three key development restrictions: an annual limit on dwelling permits capped at 1 percent and a transferable development credit system; permanent down-zoning of agricultural land to require 20-acre and 160-acre minimums for building new structures; and extensive restrictions for use of agricultural land.
The goals that came out of the initial visioning process included:
– Residents sharing a deep commitment to place, with broad-based participation, collaboration and fairness in all aspects of community life.
– Residents together celebrate their diverse cultures through art, community, events and civic projects.
– Children grow up healthy and educated in safe and supportive homes and communities.
– A full range of housing options should exist for all income levels and life situations.
– San Benito’s economy taps the county’s natural, financial and human resources to provide quality jobs for our diverse population helping residents achieve economic security.
– San Benito County provides an atmosphere that supports the start-up and expansion of quality businesses in diverse industries.
– Agriculture is locally-owned, profitable and attracts related businesses, keeping it a sustainable part of our economy and landscape.
– Downtown Hollister is an asset to all county residents, a vibrant, walkable city center with housing, jobs, cultural activities, parks and open space.
– San Benito County achieves balanced growth of jobs and housing.
– There is harmony between the built and natural environment, with new development complementing and preserving what is unique and beautiful about San Benito County.
– Development and redevelopment provide measurable and lasting benefits to the county as a whole.
– San Benito County preserves its environmental quality and diverse habitats.
– San Benito County is a leader in the efficient use of resources, including renewable energy, water and land.
– Residents have access to and care for the natural environment, while being respectful of private property.
– Residents get the education and health care necessary to improve their quality of life.
Each goal had several measures of progress by which the visioning committee hoped it could be judged.
What Vision San Benito is looking for now is feedback from the community. The group wants anyone who is interested in helping to shape the future of San Benito County by refining the vision. With assistance from Leadership San Benito two workshops are planned; one in English on April 26, and one in Spanish on May 5.
The workshops will be interactive and participation is expected.
Both meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and are expected to run until around 9 p.m. The location for the meetings will be Vets’ Memorial Building in downtown Hollister.
