An article last week in the Contra Costa Times - "Behind the scenes, developers influence Concord Naval Weapons Station planning" - leaves the impression that Council members and city staff are secretly meeting with developers to find ways to change the adopted Reuse Plan.
That's not happening.
First, while it is true that market-rate developers have not, so far, actively submitted formal comments during the Reuse Plan process they were in attendance at the various workshops and CAC meetings that were held.
As crazy as it seems - given that this process has been going on for over four years - it's still too early and too uncertain for most builders or developers to care about or spend resources on the Base Reuse project.
Further, I think it is smart the Council has asked staff to have the Base Reuse plan's economics re-examined and NOT getting the development community's expertise and advice in that process would be a huge mistake.
Second, the story doesn't explain that ALL the other groups - labor, affordable housing, social justice, education, environmental, neighborhood, sports, etc. have held numerous informal meetings, workshops and even rallies with Council members and city staff invitees in attendance over the past four years. I know. I attended many, if not most, of them.
It's the Council and staff's responsibility to hear the viewpoints of the various stakeholders and make recommendations and decisions in the best interests of the entire community.
The Base Reuse process is far from over and everyone should continue to express their views and advocate for their cause. So far I think the process is working well. The fact not everyone is completely happy proves it.
