In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of a significant $31 million project in Woodyears Hillside, which is set to undergo a full environmental review due to its size and complexity. The project, which includes the removal of a substantial number of trees, has raised concerns regarding compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Council members emphasized that the negative declaration approach, typically used for smaller projects, would not suffice in this case. Instead, they highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive plan that addresses tree protection and replacement, ensuring that the urban forest in the Uptown area is not diminished.

The discussion also noted that this project is markedly different from a previous $3.1 million initiative, particularly due to the increased costs and the anticipated disruption to local businesses. The council members expressed their commitment to representing the interests of the city while navigating the complexities of this large-scale development.