News from the CVTC

The Crescenta Valley is accustomed to relatively mild winters. However, the past few weeks have been quite a change from this norm. Despite rain, wind and snow, our community fared well.

The Dept. of Public Works preemptively cleared storm drains and debris basins. They also conducted periodic patrols and checks to be sure that our storm infrastructure was performing well. The Dyer Steet Culvert repair was completed ahead of schedule (and just in time). The fire department, sheriff’s department and California Highway Patrol also responded to storm related emergencies including many more traffic accidents than normal. We are very thankful for their hard work in keeping our community safe.

As mentioned in February, The Dept. of Regional Planning was entertaining a proposal to eliminate off-street parking requirements for new residential developments. This means that developers would not need to provide parking spaces for new buildings. The Land Use Committee studied the proposal and determined that it would very negatively impact the community. Following its recommendation, Crescenta Valley Town Council unanimously opposed this County proposal. Last week, the County Dept. of Regional Planning held a hearing on the issue. Several members of the Council, Land Use Committee and the community appeared at the hearing to testify.

In a shocking turn of events, the Dept. of Regional Planning decided against allowing the elimination of parking requirements. We are very thankful for that consideration and interest in our quality of life. We are also so fortunate to have an active community that cares, shows up and stands up for the Crescenta Valley.

The Dept. of Public Works is exploring the idea of making substantial changes to Foothill Boulevard including the reconfiguration of traffic patterns, medians and sidewalks. This is called the “Foothill Blvd Active Transportation Plan.” The Council hasn’t taken a position on the project itself because it remains vague. However, we have encouraged the County to perform additional outreach to the community. The County is performing a “walk audit” on Foothill where a representative from Public Works will walk with members of the community to hear their input. This is set to take place on Saturday March 18 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Please go to our website (thecvcouncil.com) for a link to register. This is very important and we encourage members of the community to attend.

The LA County Fire Dept. has released new guidelines for brush clearance that effect a large swath of the Crescenta Valley. This has left many questions from residents. Town Council is hosting a town hall style meeting on Tuesday, April 4 at 6 p.m. at the La Crescenta Library. Present will be representatives from the fire department to discuss these new requirements and answer questions. Please email kerri@thecvcouncil.com to RSVP.

Our Montrose Search and Rescue team continues to make the community – and country – proud. Members recently deployed to Turkey to assist in rescue efforts following the devastating earthquake. We are so fortunate to have them working in our backyard utilizing their vast skill, professionalism and expertise to keep us safe. We are thankful for their safe return.

California Highway Patrol and the sheriff’s department have been issuing more citations in and around our schools. We would like to stress the importance of safe driving. The example we set is for future drivers and the lives we protect are those of our neighbors.

Our next general meeting will be held at the La Crescenta Library on Thursday, March 16 at 7 p.m. We will have representatives from CVCA to discuss proposed development on Foothill Boulevard. We will also be hosting GCC President Dr. Cornner along with Board of Trustees Member Desiree Rabinov. They will be sharing the many ways that GCC serves the community. We hope to see everyone at this meeting!

Chris Kilpatrick, President
CV Town Council