gchna letter planning commission February 2019

What we want:

• We support the proposed uses of the old airport for solar power generation and recreational uses such as sports field, performance space for daytime use, a Nisenan cultural center etc.
• We would like to see the area structured in such a way that in a fire emergency its center can serve as short-term emergency refuge, especially in case other evacuation routes in the area are blocked or overwhelmed. We envision a central gathering space, possible multi-use for sports or daytime events with some raised panels to be used as shade structures and protection from falling debris in an emergency.
• We want fencing and landscaping that is both fire resistant and aesthetically pleasing. We encourage budgeting and resourcing of expert help for the implementation of the project.
• We want to see an increase in evacuation options rather than a blockage due to a single, fenced off monolithic area. Pathways between the various sections should be dimensioned to at least allow access by emergency vehicles.
• Continued fire safe maintenance of all surrounding roads, in particular Airport Road, Tower Hill Road and West Airport Road
• A cultural center to the Nisenan to be established at a location and in a fashion suitable to and determined by the representatives of the Nisenan people inside or outside the solar facility. We acknowledge their request for 10 acres adjacent to the BLM land.
• Raised panels to provide shaded parking at the various entrance points are desirable
• Active involvement of the neighborhood and GCHNA as stake holders along the various steps of planning.

What we don’t want:

• A single, cordoned off, monolithic, uninviting area which forces walkers, runners and bicyclists onto a single path along a dreary security fence with a view dominated by solar panels.
• Any nuisance to the neighbors caused by equipment, for example by humming or hissing inverters
• Any after dark nuisance such as additional traffic, noise or light pollution; no bathrooms or picnic tables or facilities that might encourage long-term lingering.
• Large panels blocking the view of surrounding natural forest and horizon. Unless panels are raised for a purpose (such as shade structures) they should keep a low profile and not overwhelm the setting.