Save Downtown Menlo submits signatures in support of initiative relating to downtown parking lot development

On Friday, October 10, the Save Downtown Menlo group submitted over 3,440 signatures — well over the required 3,000 — in support of its citizens’ initiative requiring voter approval before the City of Menlo Park can develop downtown’s parking plazas for private development. This total is 50% higher than the number of valid signatures required.

Supporters emphasized that the initiative is a call for balanced growth and smarter planning.

“We all agree that we need more affordable housing, but there are alternative locations near downtown and throughout the city that would provide a more pleasant place to live and wouldn’t undermine our downtown economy, said Menlo Park resident Barbara Mason. “There’s no reason to sacrifice our downtown’s vital infrastructure and make it much harder for families and seniors to use and enjoy the downtown. We can provide housing and protect our downtown at the same time. We don’t have to choose one or the other.”

The coalition also warned against the City’s current plan, which they argue undermines both downtown vitality and public trust.

Commented Alex Beltramo: “These plazas are vital community assets that generations of residents and businesses have depended on. Turning them over without a public vote would be a breach of trust. We elected our representatives to manage our public lands, not give them away.”