Council declines to consider removing ENC neighboring property as housing opportunity site

A center locally loved for their natural habitat and educational programs was the focus of concern for residents packed into City Council chambers this week.

About 40 people (adults and children) spoke more than an hour on Tuesday (April 15) during public comments on non-agenda items in support of the Environmental Nature Center. Audience members also held up signs urging the council to “protect ENC.”

Speakers were referencing an item that Councilmember Erik Weigand requested during matters which councilmembers have asked to be placed on a future agenda (no discussion, the council only votes on whether or not to hear the item at a future meeting). Weigand asked his colleagues to “consider removing the property located at 1501 16th St. from the city’s General Plan, so it is no longer designated as a housing opportunity site” The ENC is located on the neighboring property, at 1601 E. 16th St.

Councilmember Robyn Grant asked for a clarification if there was an opportunity for the councilmembers to adjust the scope of request or if they were required to vote on exactly how it was worded.

It’s written very specifically in the agenda, said Assistant City Attorney Yolanda Summerhill, and advised the council to “stick with how it is.”

Ultimately, councilmembers voted 6-1 (with only Weigand in support) and the item failed to move forward to a future agenda for a full discussion.

Read the full article: https://stunewsnewport.com/council-declines-to-consider-removing-enc-041825/