Rohnert Park Ripples by Gina Belfort - June 2017
At our May 9th city council meeting we discussed quiet zones and increased safety at intersections through the city of Rohnert Park. One intersection that is very concerning is
Unfortunately, should a train approach the intersection at a high rate of speed there would be no place for cars to move to get off the tracks.
Understanding the overall need for quiet zones the council looked at possible safety improvements to the Golf Course Drive intersection. The council gave direction to:
• install medians on the east side of the tracks
• add signs restricting turns
• paint “keep clear” on the pavement
• coordinating of the timing of the lights to help clear the tracks
• asking SMART to slow the train down through the intersection.
Even though we all supported a quiet zone for Rohnert Park this does not mean the whistle will always run silent. The engineer will still blow the whistle as they approach the station and should they sense any danger on the tracks.
With our water supply system over 50 years old the city is considering adjusting water rates to cover rehabilitation costs, such as replacing aging pipes. It is also important to search for undetected leaks which can ultimately undermine the integrity of our streets and roads.
Said city manager, Darrin Jenkins, “The City is also considering changing rates to better prepare for the next drought. A temporary surcharge in times of drought would provide funding to deliver water, and would go away when the drought ends. The City would structure the charge so that those of us who meet goals for reducing use would have lower overall water bills than with normal usage. For example, a 10% mandated reduction in water use could result in an 8% surcharge, saving the customer money overall”.
The proposed increase for average users would be .08 per day or approximately $2.50 per month. If approved, our rates would still be among the lowest in the region.
When asked about the increase of housing and water usage in Rohnert Park Jenkins replied, “I know that some residents question the availability of water to support the building of new homes. Nearly all new development must use recycled water for common areas such as parks and landscaping strips, and have water-efficient fixtures, including showers, sinks, toilets, and washing machines. The City also requires shut-off valves for hoses, and limits the water available for landscaping”.
There will be a public hearing at our July 11th meeting to discuss the matter.
CONGRATULATIONS Margot Godolphin, Faith Adam and Annie Rasmussen who werehonored by the Rohnert Park City Council for their many years of service. You will recognize them as the trio that assembled and helped hang the works of art for both the Art and Photography show in the RP-Cotati free library. A new team headed by Creighton Bell and Simone Wilson, a husband and wefe team are now in charge of both shows in the Armando Flores room of the library.
