The City of Redding is currently holding four meetings to get public comment on the proposed sale of city-owned land along the Sacramento River at Turtle Bay. Unfortunately, very few people opposed to the sale of this public land for extensive development next to the river have spoken out. The sale of the land for development includes the specific Bird Sanctuary of 45 acres just east of Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
It is very important for those of you who are opposed to this sale of public land for as yet vague purposes to get involved and speak out against harming this riparian area of our river. The proponents are headed by Populus, a national and worldwide builder of large sporting arenas, convention centers and other large facilities. Others include K-2 development, McConnell Foundation and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. This is a for profit venture that will forever change the landscape of Turtle Bay. The proponents have talked about it having walkways and restaurants over the river and being a go to center for Redding residents, which it already is. They have not given any specific plans, just that they want to see maximum development of the area. Previous plans of Populus include lots of concrete, one right up to a river’s edge.
A retired Planner and a City Council member have told me it is important to get involved early and to speak out at the meetings. This is why SEA is asking you to get involved and speak out or send emails to the Redding City Council expressing your opposition. SEA has only taken opposition to the sale of the Bird Sanctuary and development of the riparian area of the riverfront. At the current time we are not opposing the purchase of the rodeo grounds or the Civic Auditorium as the land is already degraded.
You may also comment via email is you don’t wish to go in person. Email comments to Mayor Erin Resner at eresner@cityofredding.org. Put “Turtle Bay: For all council members” in the subject, and/or send to your favorite council member.
The meeting are held on Wednesdays at the Redding City Council Chambers at 5:15 pm on the following dates.
October 27:
(1) Presentation on the Master Planning Process and how it interrelates with the General Plan and the Riverfront Specific Plan.
(2) Presentation of Unsolicited Proposal Received to Develop Land Around the Civic Auditorium.
November 10:
(1) Presentation on the status of the subject properties inclusive of covenants, city cost burdens, grant restrictions, acquisition dates, and other items needing special consideration.
(2) Presentation of Unsolicited Proposal Received to Develop Land Around the Civic Auditorium.
November 18:
(1) Presentation on the various available options for the subject properties and the steps required for each.
(2) Presentation of Unsolicited Proposal Received to Develop Land Around the Civic Auditorium.