Tuesday, 09 March 2010 09:01

Sutter Creek OKs Ballot Language Supporting Gold Rush

slide3-sutter_creek_oks_ballot_language_supporting_gold_rush.pngAmador County – The Sutter Creek City Council in a special meeting Monday approved ballot language for the city-wide referendum on the Gold Rush Ranch & Golf Resort. Staff prepared the support statement for the initiative, which the county election office has assigned to be named “Measure N.” The language, approved on a 3-2 vote with one amendment, begins by saying that the “Sutter Creek City Council urges a yes vote on Measure N to ensure the city receives the significant community benefits of the Gold Rush Ranch project.” Mayor Gary Wooten and councilwomen Linda Rianda and Sandy Anderson voted yes, while Mayor Pro Tempore Tim Murphy and Councilman Pat Crosby voted no. The language noted that “for several years, the city has processed an application for the Gold Rush Ranch project located on 945 acres of property near Sutter Hill.” It noted that current zoning for “industrial and high density residential” zones would be replaced with “lower density residential and recreational uses,” open space and an 18-hole golf course. It notes that “during deliberations, the council concluded that the gold Rush Ranch project is an appropriate way to plan for future growth while simultaneously preserving Sutter Creek’s downtown area.” The language, drafted in committee by Anderson and Planning Commissioner Frank Cunha, notes that a “yes” vote “upholds the council’s approvals and insures the city will receive project amenities including a new sewer treatment plant, a community park, $1 million for road improvements, $1 million for open space acquisition, 300 acres of permanent open space, and $500,000 for historic preservation.” The approval of the statement for the ballot marks the start of a timeline for the proponents of the referendum to file a rebuttal statement, to also be placed on the ballot. Proponent Bart Weatherly attended the meeting but did not speak. The referendum will be on the June 8th ballot, and the election will be funded by Gold Rush developers. Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.