Q: Can you give a recap of your Feb. 1 Town Hall meeting, which focused on the potential development of a preservation/beautification initiative in the Mandarin area?
A: I was very pleased with the turnout; it was very nearly standing room only. I appreciated the cooperation of the directors of the other local preservation societies, who spoke of the advantage of having such an organization to coalesce with the city on planning matters. Members of the Mandarin Community Club board were also in attendance and I’d like to thank them for their active interest in potentially spearheading this work. I am working on securing the funding from the city; it will probably be available by late 2024.
Q: What can you share about the proposed widening of Hartley Road?
A: This project is in the very early stages; we are just nearing the end of the planning stage. The proposal is to have two 11-foot lanes with an 11-foot lane in the middle for the majority of the length of Hartley Road from San Jose almost to Old St. Augustine Road. There are proposed to be pedestrian walkways on both sides as well as curbs and gutters and a bike lane. The focus of our next Town Hall meeting, on April 17 at 6 p.m. at the Mandarin Senior Center, will be on introducing the community to the plans and timeline for the project.
Q: Do you have an update on the lane addition to San Jose Boulevard where the southbound traffic merges onto Interstate 295?
A: The good news is I confirmed that funding is in place and by late summer the construction should begin.
Q: What is the latest on the Cissel property on Loretto Road?
A: The property was purchased by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There is presently a construction fence around the perimeter of the property. There are efforts to salvage parts of the home that is on the property, but it won’t be saved in its entirety. A number of outlets looked at relocating the house, but it was in a state of disrepair to make this not feasible.
Q: Do you have anything else to share with District 6?
A: For the first time that I can remember, we have no rezoning applications in District 6 at this time. I’m sure there will be some soon, as Mandarin is a desirable place to live and do business. But for now, I think we should enjoy the respite.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Community members can email me at MBoylan@coj.net or call (904) 255-5206.
