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Public Comment John Kirk, a teacher at the College of San Mateo and a member of the AFT Local 1493 (the College of San Mateo Federation of Teachers), spoke about a Teamsters' letter in opposition to the proposed project. He submitted a copy to Council (on file) and read excerpts on how this project threatens existing jobs in the Seaport area. Magdalena Mora thanked Council for the work accomplished on behalf of the community. She spoke in favor of continuing to study the project to obtain the necessary information Council needs to make a decision. Hector Flamenco, a business owner in Redwood City, spoke in favor of giving this new project an opportunity like he had had to set up a new business. Doug Karlson, representing the Bair Island Aquatic Center (BIAC), located next to the bay, reiterated their support for an open process leading to the EIR (environmental impact report). They support developing access to the bay and he also shared information on some of their recent and future events. Sharon Prager, a resident of San Mateo, spoke in favor of the EIR process finding it important to this City and also to neighboring suburbs. She opined that careful and thoughtful review is important for an open and transparent process and this project can be a catalyst for economic development, affordable housing and more parks. Brett Garrett, resident, spoke against the proposed project in light of recent stories about flooding and rising sea levels. He said there are many concerns not addressed by the EIR process. He encouraged support for any future City Council candidates in the upcoming election who are against this project. Frances Boscacci, a San Mateo County resident for twenty years, spoke in favor of continuing the review process. She expressed her concerns about the housing and job imbalance and how expensive housing is here. She spoke in support of the project. Bob Burger, a San Mateo resident, spoke of his plan to eventually retire within walking distance of the bay and spoke in favor of the project. He hopes this project will be approved in part or completely so that it is ready when he is ready to retire. Yana Rudakov, a resident of San Mateo County, spoke in favor of the plan due to the opportunity for more housing and jobs. She encouraged Council to keep the process going forward so people can make informed decisions. Nancy Arbuckle, a resident, posed questions in regards to the process and is looking forward to the June scoping report and update. Her comments and questions included the timeline, seeing salt ponds restored back to wetlands, when will certain things be addressed and needing more advanced notice of these meetings. Bill Nack, representing the San Mateo Building Trades Council, spoke in support of the EIR process. He requested that agenda items on this matter, recommendations 1 through 6, be approved and he urges its continuation. JOINT CITY COUNCIL /REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD May 23, 2011 MEETING MINUTES PAGE 9 MINUTE BOOK NO. 63 Page No. 327