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Open Space updates: MidPen's Hawthorne timeline and committee motions on fund use
Summary
Open Space reported MidPen's timeline for opening Hawthorne (board decision -> CEQA -> public opening projected 2028), the committee authorized legal and forensic reviews of open-space fund use, and approved a subcommittee to explore converting MidPen property to town ownership.
The open-space liaison told the conservation committee that MidPen (Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District) is one board decision away from advancing a process that could lead to opening Hawthorne for public access; the schedule discussed would begin formal steps in July 2026 and aim for a public opening in 2028.
Open Space reported three actions: a motion to obtain a town‑attorney evaluation of legal restrictions on the use of open‑space funds (as described in the ballot information), a motion to commission a forensic review of how open‑space funds and related general‑fund expenditures have been spent in recent years, and a motion forming a subcommittee to examine whether converting the Hawthorne property from MidPen to town ownership is feasible. All motions were reported as approved by the open‑space committee.
Why it matters: MidPen’s preferred parking options (options 9 and 10) would require significant grading and tree removal; committee members urged closer coordination between the town and MidPen to identify less impactful parking alternatives. The committee also noted the town attorney is conflicted on the matter and outside counsel will be needed for legal advice.
Next steps: The committee will pursue the legal and forensic reviews and follow the MidPen timeline closely; members indicated they plan to walk the property with MidPen staff and present recommended concerns regarding heritage trees and visibility to planners.
