In the heart of Loomis, California, residents gathered for a public comment workshop on the Loomis General Plan Update Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) on October 17, 2023. The atmosphere was charged with concern as community members voiced pressing issues affecting their daily lives, particularly regarding infrastructure and zoning.

One resident, visibly stressed, raised alarms about the town's ability to maintain its infrastructure with the current zoning of land. "If we can overcome with the amount of land zone as it sits, we will not be able to afford to maintain with just the culinary water," they stated, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to their request for rezoning. The urgency in their voice resonated with many in the room, highlighting a shared anxiety about Loomis's future.

Traffic congestion emerged as another critical topic. Frank Van Tasich, a long-time resident, described the increasing truck traffic on local roads, particularly around Brace Road. "I've been at that location for 18 years, and what we're seeing is more and more people, trucks," he explained, detailing how large delivery vehicles, including Walmart trucks, navigate narrow streets, causing significant disruptions. His call for Laird Road to be designated as a non-truck route underscored the community's struggle with safety and accessibility.

As the meeting progressed, the discussion shifted to the condition of local roads. Van Tasich pointed out that recent resurfacing efforts had not adequately addressed the underlying issues, leaving critical markings like stop signs nearly invisible. "You can't even see the white lines," he lamented, urging officials to take a closer look at the town's infrastructure needs.

The workshop concluded with a call for public comments, but the room remained quiet, reflecting a mix of resignation and hope among residents. As they left, the weight of their concerns lingered in the air, a reminder of the challenges Loomis faces as it navigates growth and community needs. The discussions from this workshop will likely shape the town's planning efforts, as officials are urged to listen and respond to the voices of their constituents.