lenscraft

Marin Independent Journal

Editorial: A full Sausalito council should vote on Peet's

Respectfully, this seems like irrational fear and hand-waving. It's easy to say "If things change, we're all doomed!" If you don't say how the doom will come about, it means nothing. The fact remains that this is an abandoned site, Peets' is a local business, and Sausalito residents want to be able to drink their morning coffee by the water in this very-pleasant site. The change in question allows 'formula' retailers to apply for a conditional use permit. The granting of a conditional use permit requires sign-off by boards and committees (including the Historic Landmarks Board). And the new business would still be regulated by Sausalito's Formula Retail Ordinance, which includes  (Thursday Nov 19 | post #28)

Marin Independent Journal

Editorial: A full Sausalito council should vote on Peet's

I just called City Hall and was told that Peets' request for postponement was being denied, and that the issue would be discussed at this evening's meeting. The bill in question is not Peets'-specific, but rather amends the code so that 'formula retailers' can occupy waterfront property with a conditional use permit. A conditional use permit requires large amounts of due diligence, and can be rejected anywhere along the way (any rejection kills the project.) I will be there, arguing for this change to the city code. There is no reason that this space should not be used as a coffee shop. It's a beautiful site and the public should be allowed to enjoy it.  (Tuesday Nov 17 | post #25)

Marin Independent Journal

Editorial: A full Sausalito council should vote on Peet's

John, I totally agree that this would be a great idea, but Prop 13 is a state-wide proposition, and would require a state-wide decision to modify. Maybe in the upcoming constitutional convention?  (Saturday Nov 14 | post #22)

Marin Independent Journal

Editorial: A full Sausalito council should vote on Peet's

Agreed. I'm a photographer living and working in Sausalito. The City Council has been way too political, and generally not concerned with the interests of locals for years. A 'dead' spot along the waterfront does nothing for anyone but vagrants. 1250 Bridgeway is an excellent spot for a coffee shop, friendly to dog owners and bicyclists, and Peets is a locally-owned environmentally-friendly business. There is no rational reason to leave this site vacant.  (Friday Nov 13 | post #17)