Commons concerns continue with Town Council; Thomas Keller urges employer outreach
Yountville Town Council chambers were once again filled Tuesday, March 3, even though the Commons project was not on the agenda. That did not stop residents from addressing it during public comment, as several speakers stepped to the podium to voice their concerns.
Larry Kamer noted that one of the letters sent to council members has now gathered more than 50 signatures. The letter asks the council to listen carefully and understand that residents want the project to succeed, not to stop it, but to ensure it is done correctly so that it truly works for the community.
Thomas Keller took the podium to encourage conversations with local businesses to better understand the needs of their employees. He asked the council to engage directly with each business and urged everyone to continue approaching the project positively, while also being careful not to overspend.
Majel Arnold pointed out that since the Feb. 17 study session, there has been a consistent and united message asking the council to gather the necessary information and prioritize working with a neutral third party to obtain accurate data for the project’s success before continuing forward. Arnold asked the council, “If you don’t agree, what are your reasons? What is your rationale? Why have you not responded to the questions or letters that have been submitted?”
Despite Mayor Mohler’s request that the audience refrain from applauding, attendees applauded after each speaker. Because these remarks were made during the “Public Comments on Items Not on the Agenda” portion of the meeting, the council did not respond to the comments or questions, as is standard procedure.
After public comments concluded, the room emptied and the meeting continued with scheduled agenda items, primarily departmental updates.
Public Works Director John Ferons reported on the completion of several projects, including paving and improvements on Washington Street, a new sidewalk in front of the French Laundry Garden and improved bike lane striping on Madison Street. He also said that fencing around the ballpark will be removed this week to allow for installation of a storage container to be used by The Coop for refrigerated food storage. Additionally, work has begun in the south Washington Street parking lot, south of the Bocci courts, where permeable pavers are being installed to create a more functional parking space for limousines, buses and the taco truck.
Parks and Recreation Director Samantha Holland provided an update on the merchandise kiosk previously located in front of the post office. During the holiday season, it was primarily staffed by volunteers and generated $27,000 in sales. The kiosk will now be relocated to the Farmstand Garden, where it will be repurposed as a greenhouse.
Beverly Wilmore, the town’s deputy manager of marketing and economic development, reported on the success of the new entertainment zone. Strong attendance was seen at both the Halloween Party in NoYo and the Mardi Gras Parade and after-party. Both events benefited from the option of allowing open carry of wine and alcoholic beverages within the designated zone.
Town Clerk Hilary Gaede announced that Community Cookouts will begin on March 31 and will continue on the last Tuesday of every month behind the Yountville Community Center at Bud’s BBQ space. She also noted that residents can still sign up on the town’s website to help host Yountville Night Out on July 28 from 5 to 7 p.m.
