Taft Levee

 

Council Makes Right Choice about Taft Levee

Let’s hope the Council's 5-2 vote to not build a gigantic earthen levee around the Idyllwild neighborhood and Park View Church will put an end to this controversial issue. Years ago we, along with many others, were opposed to this development in the flood plain. Of course in those days the decision makers were thinking only of work for developers and tax returns for the city and gave approval to this foolish plan.

With the present drought it is hard to imagine this area flooding again, but it will. And those that chose to live in the flood plain -- and rebuild or refurbish after a flood -- will have to bear whatever consequences befall them.  It's a tough life out there in the world of climate and this time a majority of the City Council did, as Councilor Payne stated, "use logic" instead of emotion by voting down the levee.

We love the water, we love being on the river and we understand those who want to live by the water; and the original occupants did and do. Smart construction for riverbank lovers does not include wall-to-wall carpet, basements, expensive appliances and areas that cannot stand       flooding without being destroyed.

Permanent structures of any kind in close proximity to a river are risky because rivers meander.

Future plans for New Pioneer’s relocation away from the creek might best be served by talking with the city about the possibility of acquiring a portion of city land east of the Unitarian Church and making part of the exchange the conveyance to the city of New Pioneer’s current site. Given the likelihood that any development on the corner of Gilbert and College will result in reduction of monthly permits, some of which are used by city employees, the city could raze the old New Pi and use the area for employee parking.

Carol deProsse

Caroline Dieterle