The future of land use planning in Monterey County should revolve around the creative reuse and redevelopment of the former Fort Ord. The fact that these federally-owned lands are being turned over to local control, and to public ownership, gives local communities an unprecedented opportunity to do creative planning, and to provide truly affordable housing. Unfortunately, the opportunities on Fort Ord have not yet been realized, and could be lost!
FORA Design Guidelines Are Too Weak
FORA should protect the views of Fort Ord from Highway One. Unfortunately, the proposed “Design Guidelines” make no commitment to viewshed protection, and will let each city “make their own rules.” This LandWatch letter supports the efforts of Congress Member Sam Farr and Carmel Mayor Sue McCloud to have FORA adopt stronger guidelines. (11.22.04)
Fort Ord Demands A Different Approach
Because the public owns the lands on the former Fort Ord, development proposals should be handled differently. LandWatch Executive Director Gary Patton makes the case in this article from the Monterey County Herald. (posted 08.26.03)
It's Time To Contact FORA Board Members
The Board of Directors of the Fort Ord Reuse Authority will vote on July 11th on a set of affordable housing policies that could have an incredibly positive impact, if adopted. Here's how to contact FORA Board Members by phone, email, or regular mail. (posted 07.06.03)
LandWatch Supports Farr Affordable Housing Recommendations
This long letter provides a detailed legal and policy justification for the affordable housing policies that the FORA Board will consider on July 11, 2003. (posted 07.05.03)
Farr Recommendations Would Mandate Affordable Housing on Fort Ord
Currently, FORA makes no specific requirement that affordable housing be constructed on the Former Fort Ord. That's left up to the local jurisdictions. Sam Farr's recommendations would change all that! (posted 07.05.03)
Applications Are Open For Fort Ord "Community Advisory Group"
The California State Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is establishing a "Community Advisory Group" for Fort Ord, to monitor toxic cleanup issues on Fort Ord. Applications from interested persons are being received now, but they must be postmarked by May 30, 2003! (posted 05.21.03)
Town Hall Meetings on Affordable Housing
The Fort Ord Reuse Authority will soon be holding two Town Hall Meetings, to focus on affordable housing opportunities at the former Fort Ord. (posted 05.05.03)
Affordable Housing Opportunities on Fort Ord
Fort Ord provides an outstanding opportunity for Monterey County communities to build the kind of affordable housing that the community truly needs. The Fort Ord Reuse Authority (FORA) is expected to make some important decisions at its May 9, 2003 meeting. Read the Clark Group report that FORA will consider, as it takes action on affordable housing issues. (03.30.03)
Option Agreement Gives Up Future Public Discretion Over Fort Ord
The Option Agreement approved by the Board of Supervisors on February 4, 2003, cedes broad authority to a private developer, with few guarantees for the public. A letter from LandWatch outlines the problems. (02/05/03)
