City officials are seeking the community’s input for drafting the goals for the ongoing update of the Land Use and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan.
The land use element delineates the distribution of different types of buildings (housing, business, industry, open space, etc.) while the circulation element sets out the location of existing and proposed roads, highways and other modes of transportation. The zoning ordinance translates the land use element’s goals and objectives into standards and procedures. They were last updated in 1984.
Recently, 21 community members participated in an interactive workshop held at Virginia Avenue Park. They were given the opportunity to comment on the importance of the 10 goals that had been developed through earlier workshops. City documents for the workshop state these goals “will help devise a framework for testing alternative land use and circulation strategies.” The number of goals was equally divided between land use and circulation. City Senior Planner Jon Lait told the Mirror that the participants considered all 10 goals significant.
The 10 Goals are:
1. Balanced Growth – Balanced growth that promotes a diverse and inclusive community; community suggestion – “focus on economic diversity.”
2. Local/Regional Balance – A distinct local identity within the regional context; community suggestion – “address regional concerns, sprawl and lack of housing.”
3. Valued Resources – The continued enjoyment of natural and cultural assets; community suggestion – “new parks and open spaces in lieu of more development.”
4. Great Design – Buildings and places that reflect principles of sustainability, innovation and quality urban design; community suggestion – “preserve architectural heritage.”
5. Connected Neighborhoods – A community of safe, secure and connected neighborhoods with quality public spaces and amenities; community suggestion – “more outdoor cafes.”
6. Effective Transit System – A balance of transportation choices for residents, employees and visitors to get around easily; community suggestion – “free public transport.”
7. Regional Awareness – Local system integrated with regional context; community suggestion – “more streets for pedestrians only.”
8. Universal Safety – A secure environment for all pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and drivers; community suggestion – “quality designed public spaces.”
9. Well Designed Spaces – Quality designed public spaces for travel, recreation and social interaction; community suggestion – “bike only routes paralleling major roads.”
10. Environmental Responsibility – A transportation system that minimizes, and where possible eliminates, pollution and motor vehicle congestion; community suggestion – “city car dealerships sell only non-polluting cars.”
Those still wishing to give input on these goals can do so at the Santa Monica Festival on May 13 between 11am-6pm; at the Interactive Installation at the Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd., through May 8; or by participating in the Internet Feedback Forum at www.shapethefuture2025.net through May 21.
