1 July, 2001

Dear Mayor Smith,

During the 27 June Planning Commission meeting Mark Tasca read one paragraph of a letter we had submitted and declared it "bloody hogwash." He went on to say, "to do this," (pointing to our letter) "is morally bankrupt."

First of all, Bud, the topic of CUPs is not a moral crusade.

Secondly, we recognize and appreciate both sides of this issue. We understand that most people feel passionately one way or the other on the subject of CUPs, but most involved can address their concerns in a dignified, respectful, manner. Unfortunately, two of your commissioners, Mark Tasca and Kathleen Saldana, cannot. Mark Tasca has stated he wishes Avalon could get rid of all transient renters, and Ms. Saldana has publicly announced that she will NEVER vote for a CUP.

We believe that as public servants they are obligated to act in a polite and unbiased manner towards anyone who comes in front of the commission. Instead, these two people have opted to peddle hostility and bitterness towards CUP applicants and the general transient rental population, both at commission meetings and in the community. They are in a position to approach the issue of CUPs in a levelheaded manner, but have chosen instead to foment strife among neighbors in Avalon.

We also believe that as they are appointed public servants, you are responsible for their behavior. Perhaps you need to remind them to conduct their business without the sniping and negative comments, and that as representatives of the city, to be more judicious in their opinions in general. Or, since these two commissioners cannot behave in a more evenhanded way, perhaps you should remove them before they have done the City of Avalon irreparable harm.

Please advise us as to your intent.

Sincerely,

Susan and Bill Scheding

Cc: Planning Commission members

City Council members

City Attorney

CIPOA membership