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Mayor Foust read remarks into the record from a letter from Citizens to Protect Redwood City (CPRC), who asked that their comments be read on the matter of the proposed amendment to the City Charter. The CPRC expected in the coming weeks to provide more information on the ramifications of such proposed amendment. They expressed confidence in the City to make the right decision regarding the amendment. Public Comment Jim Bigelow, Chamber of Commerce Member, spoke in opposition to the proposed amendment and its adverse affect on the City, private individuals and businesses. Lennie Roberts, with the Committee for Green Foothills, spoke on her prior involvement in a similar situation in the last 80s. She stated Council shouVd not stand in the way of this initiative for due-process and looked to a healthy debate regarding the matter. Elizabeth Traviers, looked for input and clarification on items mentioned in the recent local newspaper regarding Council and the initiative. She stated she is a member of many environmental clubs and spoke of past disagreements as well. Gita Dev spoke to the debate over whether petition signatures were valid and encouraged that the ongoing debate on the initiative remains civil and constitutional. She stated there were strong reasons for consideration of the initiative. William Nack, San Mateo County Building Trades Council, opined the initiative was contrary to democratic principles and stood by the current City and Council processes. Tim Martin voiced strong interest in the Open Space Initiative, expressed concern over the signature validation, and opined that upholding constitutional rights is important to him. Pat Dixon stressed that no group shoultl be allowed to come in and decide by 2/3 vote what should be done in the community by the Council's usual decision making process. Ms. Dixon does not support the petitioner's actions. Victor Torreano noted the passionate nature of the issue, but questioned whether the proposed charter amendment was about accurate interpretation and information. Peter Hughes stated he was against the proposed amendment and cited problems and restrictions that would result from it should the voters pass it. Marianne Raymond spoke in support of the initiative and spoke to this end. She elaborated on what she called the increased need for improved stewardship of the bay, recreation, trails, wildlife and preservation. David Lewis, Executive Director of Save the Bay, spoke in support of the initiative. He expressed appreciation to Council and staff for their ongoing questions and answers on this subject. He reiterated the reasoning behind his support of the initiative, and reiterated what its legalities and the validiry of the petitioner signatures. He opined that this could also have come back to Council as soon as its last meeting instead of waiting for July 7, 2008. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL JUNE 30, 2008 MINUTES PAGE 3 MINUTE BOOK NO. 62 Page No. 139