On Monday, September 23, there was a public meeting regarding the environmental impacts of the proposed Heritage Oaks Memorial Park, a large cemetery and crematorium. Approximately ten people provided comments, all opposed to the project. Several people expressed concerns about wildlife connectivity and preserving Coyote Valley. Since the project was first proposed, there is much more information now available about the importance of the area, and this site, for wildlife connectivity. Other issues that were discussed include traffic/safety concerns, issues with the use of turf grass and removal of oak trees, concerns about harmful pollutants in crematorium gases, and concerns about massive grading of the hillside.
In 2014, the City rezoned 275 acres of hills for this project despite objections by the environmental community. The cemetery will cover 102 acres, affecting the landscape by excavating hills, removing 100 native oak trees, and installing non-native turf grass. Despite initial objections, the City approved the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) years ago.
Now the developer is seeking permits for the first phase of construction. Thankfully, at the insistence of environmental groups, a supplemental EIR will be prepared, but public input is essential for this supplemental EIR to be impactful.
Email the City by October 7 to voice your concerns about this large project that impacts our Coyote Valley! For more information, see this webpage (scroll down to section on Environmental Review).