Editor:

On Dec. 20, Planning Commission Chairman Weber seemed content that all Brentwood needs for its seven zoning districts is design control. He was the dissenting vote to impose at the very least Conditional Use Permit parameters for any business seeking to operate in Brentwood above 75,000 square feet. Again, the vision of Brentwood as a city of distinction is being undermined by an appointed official.

The residents of Brentwood have conveyed their desires loud and clear by more than 500 signatures in two weeks, a special City Council meeting and now a Planning Commission meeting – we want more control in the retail establishments that seek a Brentwood address. Developer/broker Sechser implied if you demand stricter requirements for new businesses, they will be scared away – gee, that’s a shame.

With The Streets of Brentwood 97-percent leased and generating over $5 million a year in sales tax revenue, and new retail in the Winco and Shops at Fairview centers, Brentwood still has the ability to be very selective in future retail development. Why not take the most control, then scale back as necessary?

This is the way most of us conduct our lives as well – it’s just common sense, a character trait seemingly lacking in city management. By the way, what happened to the emphasis on business in Brentwood that can actually generate a household-sustaining income? Yes, as Alex Greenwood opined, Brentwood has room for more retail tax revenue, but at what expense, creating another Pittsburg/Antioch?

We have only one chance to remain unique, to plan and unfold as the jewel of East CC County. Our city governors need to share and apply the vision set forth in our General Plan and voiced by its constituents. Who’s listening? Let’s see at the Jan. 10 council meeting, 7 p.m., new council chambers – join me.

Kathy Griffin, Brentwood