In a recent public comment workshop held on October 17, 2023, the Loomis Town Council engaged with residents regarding the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Loomis General Plan Update. The atmosphere was charged with curiosity and concern as community members sought clarity on significant changes proposed in the plan.

Residents voiced their apprehensions about the future of local land use, particularly the potential transformation of a 60-acre site at Horseshoe Bar Road and Interstate 80 from tourist commercial to residential. Doug Tatara, a local resident, raised questions about the implications of increased density downtown, where the plan suggests a rise from 15 to 20 units per acre. He also highlighted a controversial proposal to replace 250 single-family lots with 1,500 high-density units, which is being considered as an alternative in the EIR.

The discussion also touched on the town's commitment to affordable housing, with officials clarifying that certain lots owned by the town are linked to these requirements rather than being designated for park development. This aspect of the plan aims to address the pressing need for housing in the area, a topic that resonates deeply with many residents.

Another significant point of contention arose around the historical and cultural preservation efforts in Loomis. A former member of the historical committee expressed concerns about the committee's focus shifting towards tribal resources, which he felt detracted from the original mission of preserving the town's historical landmarks. The town officials explained that the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) mandates a review of tribal resources, which is a legal requirement that must be adhered to during the planning process.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council reiterated that the CEQA process is structured to ensure that all potential impacts, including those on cultural resources, are thoroughly analyzed. This requirement, they emphasized, does not alter the general plan but is a necessary step in the planning and development process.

The workshop highlighted the delicate balance Loomis must strike between growth and preservation, as residents grapple with the implications of the proposed changes. As the town moves forward with its General Plan Update, the voices of its community members will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of Loomis.