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Frequently Asked Questions
The following are frequently asked questions about the proposed development for the Cargill Saltworks property:
What is the Saltworks proposal?
The Saltworks proposal is a proposed development of the 1,400-plus acres owned by the Cargill company east of Highway 101 and south of Seaport Boulevard. For the past 100 years, it has been used for a variety of salt-making operations. According to the documents submitted, DMB Associates’ proposal envisions 50 percent of the property to be used for a mix of housing, retail and commercial uses and 50 percent dedicate to open space, parks and restoration of the bay wetlands.
Why is the city reviewing the proposal?
The City Council has determined that it is in the public’s interest to review the development proposal. City staff is evaluating a potential General Plan amendment for the property and the Council has authorized the formation of a team of staff and specialized consultants to begin an in-depth analysis of the proposal.
Will the Saltworks proposal require an Environmental Impact Report?
If the project application is deemed to be sufficient in content and detail to be eligible to proceed through a formal review process, that process could get under way as early as Februrary 2010. It would begin with a series of informational workshops leading up to a required Scoping Session to discuss the scope and content of the analyses in a draft Environmental Impact Report. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) governs the process of evaluating the potential environmental impacts of a project.
Will a General Plan Amendment be required?
The Saltworks development proposal includes a request by the developer for a General Plan Amendment, in addition to rezoning, specific plan and development agreement. At its meeting on August 10, 2009 the City Council voted to initiate the process for evaluation of a potential General Plan amendment. This allows the City to proceed with hiring consultants, preparing detailed analyses, commissioning technical studies, and developing a thorough community involvement and public environmental review process. The City will recoup all expenses from the developer for these and other resources needed to evaluate the proposal.
How do I stay involved in the process?
This site will contain regular updates on the development proposal and review process and will include information about anticipated meeting dates and opportunities for written and oral comments and input. We will also include relevant reports and documents as they become available. You can sign up for email updates by going to the Public Participation page and signing up for the Mailing List.
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