During a recent government meeting, residents voiced concerns regarding local issues, notably the installation of a red curb and the proposed placement of a Verizon cell tower.

Jim Cline, a long-time resident of Arroyo Grande, raised an issue about a newly painted 15-foot red curb in front of his home, which he claims has significantly reduced parking availability in an area already strained by weekend activities at nearby parks. Cline explained that the red curb was requested by a neighbor who experiences anxiety when exiting their driveway. He argued that the curb's installation was unnecessary, citing a lack of accidents in the 28 years he has lived there. Cline requested that the city reconsider the red zone to restore valuable parking space for residents.

Ethel Tink, another resident, expressed her frustration over the ongoing discussions surrounding a proposed Verizon cell tower, which would be located just 100 feet from several homes. Tink highlighted the stress this situation has caused among seniors in the community, particularly as many are vulnerable to health issues, including COVID-19. She warned that the tower's installation could lead to a significant decrease in property values, estimating a potential loss of $120,000 for her home. Tink urged city officials to consider the community's concerns while acknowledging the importance of reliable cell service.

City officials responded to the public comments, with the city attorney explaining the current status of the Verizon application. He noted that the application remains pending due to a tolling agreement, which allows for additional time to explore alternative sites. The city is actively working with Verizon to expedite the process and provide updates to the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city staff to follow up on the concerns raised by residents, ensuring that their voices are heard in ongoing discussions about local infrastructure and community well-being.