Regards Nokia

By Pia C. Jensen

Monahan Pacific has proposed developing approximately 30 acres, with Nokia as a main tenant. Location is an identified wetland with vernal pools.

I will never deny anyone the right to their property rights, though I do have great concerns over this particular parcel being developed as proposed.

The land sits lower than the surrounding area and was once directly linked to the Laguna de Santa Rosa. It is now surrounded by roads and a few homes.

The Sonoma County Permits and Resources Department has documented this parcel as one of the last few remaining large parcels with vernal pools in Sonoma County.

Historically, land in this geographical area floods when development occurs - it's the soil type that causes this natural occurence.

In order to develop the property, Tom Monahan, of Monahan Pacific has come to the Cotati City Council and asked that we work with him in issuing a bond for the mitigation of the impacts on the project, if approved in full.

I believe several things:

1 - It is not incumbent upon the City Council to assist Mr. Monahan in the mitigations needed to allow this development to go froward. If he is unable to mitigate the impacts without a bond issuance, then he should not be pushing this project.

2 - As wetlands and vernal pools continue to disappear, and no wetlands have yet been succesfully been recreated, this parcel should remain intact, as is, for the whole county to have access to as one of our last links to Sonoma County's historical, environmental resources.

3 - Should Nokia really want to be helpful to Cotati and its job base and economy, they could look towards the future, as I do, and determine that small satellite offices for team work and home offices for specialized computer operations as the best solution to the impacts of technological businesses.

4 - As wetlands and other natural resources dwindle, Federal, State and non-profit monies become available to purchase and preserve lands such as this parcel. The preservation of this land is what I will strive to secure for Cotati, and all Sonoma County residents and educators.

There are many other ideals and beliefs I have regarding this proposal, and I encourage you to contact me regarding those thoughts.