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David Smith echoed comments already made and stated Council Members and commissioners were elected/appointed on the basis of the ability to vote for the community. Without compelling evidence to show why this should be overhauled, he did not understand the logic of the initiative. David Lewis, Executive Director of Save the Bay, welcomed the City Attorney's report and reiterated the information within the report summary was clear in scope. He opined that the Charter Amendment does not restrict the Council in any way. Charlene Wright addressed the City Attorney's report. In her opinion, the proposed amendment is a mistake and the Charter should stand as is. She felt the initiative would subvert the process in that a two-third's opinion could over-ride what otherwise might have been a majority vote. Andy Frisch echoed a number of points already made. He views the initiative as an anti- housing/anti-business and cited costs to the City budget for elections. He said there would be many residual unanswered questions if the initiative passed. Victor Torreano commented on what he believes to be the unfairness of a two-thirds vote, since that would be a supermajority, causing super problems. He expressed concern over election costs to the City budget. He voiced pleasure and trust in Council's decision-making and supported the continuance of that process. 1 Richard Ferrari echoed comments related to opposing the proposed amendment, and stated current process works and should not be changed. He noted other communities where development planning also protected open spaces areas. Heidi Sjolund, a long-time Redwood City resident with family ties beyond 100 years in the community, urged everyone to take a look at past American history. She opined that elected public officials should be allowed to continue on in their public service without this amendment. Lou Covey stated the City's awards mentioned tonight speak for themselves. He suggested the community continue to allow Council to make informed and educated decisions, and to not give this up to a two-thirds voting process. Ramon Quezada, Bay Area Gardener's Association membe�, urged continued trust and belief in the elected Council, trusting that vote and process, and not amending current process to a two-thirds vote. He supports affordable housing and does not support the initiative. Juan Carlos Prado, President of the Gardener's Association, stated the association is in support of the current process. He repeated the notion that while open space needs securing, smart (green) developing and housing is also needed and can also be accomplished. Jim Bigelow, San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce, voiced his support of the prior testimony and opposes the initiative. He stated the Association members had a chance to read the report in depth, but there are still residents and businesses that have continued CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MAY 19, 2008 MINUTES PAGE 8 MINUTE BOOK NO. 62 Page No. 103