Randy wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:12 AM:I hope that many enjoyed viewing the proceedings from the comfort of your own homes, with iced tea and popcorn in hand! No reason to suffer through hours of standing room only when the outcome was never in doubt.

Larry wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:40 AM:The decision just turns the "master planning" of the Oceanside Blvd. corridor on its head! There is absolutely no hope for the City and its council when the decision makers can't see that 400 daily trips of concrete trucks in this area totally destroys any attempt to create a quality environment. Scuttle the master plan effort-- the idea is now ridiculous!

Larry wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:43 AM:This is the kind of decision you get when Republicans are elected to the Council-- corporations-YES!; people-NO!

justice wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:08 AM:I wonder if anyone really heard Jerry? If you really care about the Creek, pick up your pet waste and stop over-fertilizing your lawns! residents want better access to the creek and they're the ones doing the polluting and trying to hang the blame on businesses. SHAME ON YOU, NADINE!

LomaAltan wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:55 AM:This is a sad day for our City. However, considering the serial short sightedness of the majority of our Council, It's no surprise that KFC voted to approve.

After last night’s debacle, no one should wonder why our reputation as Carlsbad’s ugly sister lives on. This unfortunate decision carries an impact that changes the trajectory of our city now and for generations.

I take little solace in the knowledge that sometime in the not too distant future, everyone will come to realize that how bad this decision was and what far reaching negative impact it carries.

For now, residents of Loma Alta and Fire Mountain should be outraged by the knowledge that the prevailing will of the people means nothing to our majority City Council who, in the face of absolute community opposition approved a project that ensures heavy industrial growth, gridlock and community degradation for two of Oceanside’s best neighborhoods.

Appalled wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:01 AM:I was appalled by the behavior of a lot of the people at this council meeting, shouting out insults and name-calling. How many times did the Mayor have to tell them to behave? And these are supposed to be adults?

Pirate wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:04 AM:As usual, Esther Sanchez used the word "lie" in respondig to arguments that she did not agree with. However, Esther might want to look in the mirror. She said this site should be used for transit oriented development, yet in her time on the council has opposed every such project, including every mixed-use project that has come before the council. She wanted a change in zoning, but pushed for and supported the council study and policy that said preserving industrial land was the number priority. As always, Esther was rude and duplicitous, and it is time for her to go.

Beth-San Marcos wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:15 AM:Yikes, Oceanside is gonna let this concrete plant dust their city and the rest of us inland. And some are concerned about second-hand smoke and not lime dusting the area? Makes no sense to me. Just look at anywhere else like Escondido on Washington Street and Rock Springs.

Interesting info wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:48 AM:Wow, what a surprise to hear the City Attorney explain that the sales tax generated by Robertson's will indeed stay in Oceanside!
Kern's comments about the creek pollutants was an eyebrow-raiser, too. I thought for sure the creek was soiled with fast-food wrappers and cigarette butts.

Lou Niles wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:53 AM:Obvious special interests here. I must shack a finger at the opposition though for some of the worst public speaking and behavior I've ever seen. It may have been a small factor in swaying at least one council member.
Look, the people for it had direct financial gain or they were in fear for their jobs, businesses and property. So take out the latter and you had Robertson's and out of town Commercial Real Estate brokers for the plant.
Then look at the Robertson's report and how many times it stated NO as in No effect, No impact.
That's impossible and if they are willing to lie right off the bat then it just shows they will lie again.

So the Council decided YES
with out of towners, a company that lies, and for 17-18 jobs and a PROMISE of 230K in taxes.
It will cost well over a million dollars immediately and every 4 years to fix the roads.

Imagine the income for the city from 100 high paying mix of blue collar and white collar jobs.
Imagine a BioTech company or Action Sports Industry company down in there; maybe small movie studio.

I had hope for Oceanside, now all I see is lies and special interest, short sited council members lining their own pockets I guess
They supported people with financial gain and lies;
so they must being in the same business.

Makes no sense unless that is there directive.
Makes no sense.

The Vision is broken.

Chase wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:02 AM:I think we should close all businesses in Oceanside and then form a Militia and force all our neighbors from sea to shining sea to do the same and them when we finish we will have a big party to clebrate our acomplishment, the starvation of all future generations and the shortly coming communist take over!

Sam wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:08 AM:Why build a concrete plant in a city where it is already built? It should be built out in the sticks where it is really needes the concrete. It does make any sense. The three stooges; Chavez, Kern, and Feller are all confused as usual. If you really think this is going help the city of Oceanside I would like to see you a bridge to nowhere. Is some one getting a kick-back on this or what? We need to replace the three stooges.

To Loma Altan wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:21 AM:You talk about how the Council approved a bad project that will impact two of Oceansides "best" neighborhoods, so are you trying to say that they should have approved it for another neighborhood that's not as good as yours? You knew going in that this was an industrial zone, why whine about it now? Maybe you should move to an area the has no industry, and change that neighborhood to one of Oceanside's "BEST". Find another cause to get passionate about, this ones done!

Yokozuna wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:23 AM:How many of the opponents were not from Fire Mountain or Loma Alta? Most were the same old group that show up time and time again at the council meetings. Seventy speakers out of the entire number of registered voters. Most of their points were speculation of what might happen - nothing about actuality. Characteristically, Ms. Sanchez counts the number of pro or con speakers similar to when she tried to ram through the Corazon project prior to the entire citizenry voting to reject it (Proposition M?). She needs to realize she is not working with a jury in these matters where only the attitudes of the people present determine outcomes.

Terrific Showing wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:31 AM:This was the largest neighborhood coalition ever! Mulitiple neighborhoods were represented and multiple environmental groups too. They all came out to tell the City Council troika that they want them to listen to the neighborhoods, not the out of town developers. Guess Jack's seat is really up for grabs in November now for voting against the people.

Coast Watcher wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:33 AM:Very interesting comment regarding Nadine. She and others built the biggest coalition of neighborhoods to show at the council since the Manchester debacle. And by the way, she does pick up her dog poop.

Nadine wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:37 AM:I have nothing to be ashamed of. I always pick up my dog poop, pick up trash that flies off the trash trucks on pick up day, pick up cigarette butts even though I never smoke, and for the record, I don't have a lawn to fertilize either. I also have worked with the City and various agencies to clean up the Creek.
Also, I am proud of our communities for coming out in force.
However I am most ashamed of Kern for allowing Robertsons and now any company to come into our town if they pay their way in. It's called 'pay to play' and is the highest form of the anti-democratic process.
And Jack, guess you'll be in the poop bag ready for disposal in November.

Fire Mt. guy wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:03 AM:Hey, it's Industry Street, not Whilshire Blvd. This operation is nothing compared to Waste Management which is noisy, stinky, and with a much heavier traffic volume. Let's remember property rights, an old American custom.

Oceansider wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:05 AM:I watched the entire council meeting, and I am still unclear about this point, so maybe some opponents can enlighten me: If the area in question is already zoned for industrial use (thus the name, Industry Street), then won't changing that use to something such as, say, commercial or mixed-use require a zoning change? Over and over last night I heard people, including Esther Sanchez, proclaim that no zoning changes were in the plans, yet also state their desire for "clean" businesses like retail. So, in effect, all the present industrial uses would of necessity have to be driven from their current locations. So, in effect, all the assurances to the current industrial users in that area were false? This confuses a simple mind like mine. Can someone please explain this to me?

Preschooler wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:07 AM:When will the plant actually stary running?
I want to be sure my kid is out of the neighboring preschool to avoid breathing the filthy air...
Shame on Oceanside. $200k is NOT WORTH the traffic, blight, air quality and street damage.
When do they start operations?????

Umm.. wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:08 AM:No tax dollars and subsidies for Oceanside Blvd. Leave it alone, the Visioneers wasted their time and our dollars. NCTD puts up an ugly fence, Oceanside let NCTD short us on the pathways that parallel the Sprinter route in all the other cities, WTH do we need more freaking concrete for? Start suing.

Umm.. wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:09 AM:Oh- and November- Elect NO Incumbents! Vote for Mickey Mouse if you have to. We have nothing to loose! Rise up and be heard. Make a statement. Kick them ALL out of office. Pull a Melba trioka but surprise 'em from the direction. Let the Voters Be Heard.

Oceansider wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:10 AM:And PS to the plant opponents: As well-meaning and sincere as you all were, your behavior during the meeting did not create sympathy. I attended a scoping meeting last week for the proposed Melrose Extension, and much of the same boorish behavior was in evidence there as well. Sanchez, in opposition to the extension, was at that meeting, as were some who attended last night's council meeting. Do you think there is any connection between Sanchez, her supporters and infantile, rude behavior?

Industry St.Business's wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:34 AM:One of the most claring issues was the discovery of the number of Business's in this corridor who have been polluting the Industrial Park. They have been compelled, by Code Enforcement and the City Cleanwater departments to come into compliance. You know who you are. Do not believe we will stop watching that activity and now we can add another documented Business, Robertson's, to add to the list. Pets and Fertilizer are minor by comparison of violators in the Industrial Corridor. City Staff will be kept very busy in the future with more of the same complaints already on file. Keep It Clean! Dumpster trash, blowing recycling trash,SEAGULLS feeding on dumpster trash, CEMENT dust, oil, coolant, brake dust, transmission fluid, dirty dumpsters, have all been running into the storm water channels and the Creek and out onto the Beach during the rainy season. Speeding dirty trucks without current license plates and business's without proper licensing have all been taken to task as well. Slow it down and keep it legal!

Correcting the record wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:34 AM:Councilmember Sanchez voted against mixed use projects that changed the zoning from commercial to residential, where the mixed use consisted of high density residential and some sort of strip mall. The economic development department and commission were AGAINST such projects -- taking real jobs away from the city of Oceanside and giving us more headaches in terms of traffic and additional needs for public safety and other services. Spin it all you want -- this city is $2 million in the red, with lots more potholes and cut up streets than I have EVER SEEN in the city. The money we get from projects like Robertson's is never enough. Who wins? Mitsubishi!

Fingerpointing wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:38 AM:Kern's statement about who is responsible for the clean-up on the creek -- trying to point his finger at residents -- when the responsible party is the city. Who gets fined if its not cleaned up? Well, Robertson's puts its head in the sand, guess who gets to pay? City of Oceanside taxpayers.

Shortsightedness wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:46 AM:Last night's decision truly shows the shortsightedness and lack of vision of this council. Why do these council members want us to be a second rate (I guess fourth rate, behind Carlsbad, and Vista and San Marcos who voted AGAINST Robertsons) city? I am so ashamed of their conduct and of the character they displayed, blaming the residents for who knows what and attacking a councilmember who dared to speak on behalf of numerous communities present and who is obviously much more educated and informed about the horrible impacts of this project to our beloved city.

CWfromArborHill wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:07 AM:The Oceanside Planning Commission turned down Robertson's with a 5-2 vote. Over 200 residents participated in the City Council meeting to voice their opinions, many more wrote letters.

Obviously the City Council have their own agenda and are wearing blinders to the wishes, hopes and dreams of their constituents. I can't wait for election time.

Gosh, what shall we spend all that sales tax on that we're going to generate? Maybe it will go toward more consultants for the Oceanside Vision project. Yeah, right.

Cheryl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:12 AM:The Oceanside Planning Commission turned down Robertson's with a 5-2 vote. Over 200 residents participated in the City Council meeting to voice their opinions, many more wrote letters.

Obviously the City Council have their own agenda and are wearing blinders to the wishes, hopes and dreams of their constituents. I can't wait for election time.

Gosh, what shall we spend all that sales tax on that we're going to generate? Maybe it will go toward more consultants for the Oceanside Vision project. Yeah, right.

Time for A Change wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:27 AM:First off Shame on Robertsons, loading our council chambers with people who do not even live in Oceanside, who stood thier and watched communities with retired people, standing with canes, and you didn't even offer them a chair- What kind of help are you going to bring to our city - LIES!!
Please remember your money will not be welcomed for any of our groups in town, you paid off Feller, Rocky, & Kern...A person spoke that works for Robertsons, who got cancer, and it came back a 2nd time.....ahhhh Sir, I feel for your health, maybe instead of letting robertsons let you have time off for therapy you should know that Robertsons poisened you and you should have taken them to court and won lots of money, they bought the employees too! PS - We are smarter than Corona towns people MR. KERN and your dog poop- maybe if your concerned about dog poop on your high priced (ugly) shoes the residents paid for, you'd be more concerned to have all ready placed a couple sign/poles for picking up dog poop with bag and trash bins..."like other cities have" - Oceanside people will NOT PUT UP WITH THIS, Lawyers are on the way. If we had it our way Nadine would be a Council Member!!! PS its such a shame none of you MEN (Kern, Feller & Rocky, can work as a team with Sanchez, she is the ONLY ONE UP there who speaks, clearly, and educated! Robertsons, the people have spoked GO HOME no one is going to do business with you!! You'll have to lay off your huge group of 17 people....

Jeanne wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:54 AM:Well it looks like we sure learned the 'character' of our city council members!!!! Is it too late for new candidates for the council seats that will be up for grabs in November????? It is time for some new blood....I think we need an entirely new council. I can't believe that any person with half a brain can believe that 472 cement trucks on Oceanside Blvd. will not have any impact...... It is a sad time for the future of Oceanside.

HOPE wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:14 PM:Nadine Should Run for City Council, someone who obviously cares and gets residents to be a part of our growing city.

First, about the sales tax, that can't even buy a single residential home? City Councilmembers are blind. PS, us enviromentalist use ORGANIC lawn care products, and feed our doggies ORGANIC dog food. We are AWARE! unlike the decision that was made last night. Can someone please let me know what Feller's reason to vote no was, I was so lost. LETS VOTE NADINE FOR CITY COUNCIL!

Help Our City wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:18 PM:Please, most of the seats were filled with Robertsons ee's, who said they care for the towns they do business in, well Not One Robertsons EE or affiliation went out of there way to let the senior citizens of Oceanside have those seats! It goes to show the truth of what this company will bring to our city. Vote For Nadine!

OMG wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:22 PM:I can't believe the city voted Yes for the concrete company!... This area is zoned for industrial use, but the media was shown how this area floods many times. It needs to be re-zoned accordingly, and moved far from residential area. The city may want to reconsider due to law suits in the future. It just should not be built in that area, and things change, change the zoning and move the Industrial area away from residents, and a high area for the city to attract tourist. This story is sad as the vote leads Oceanside back to sqaure one for least desired Ocean city in San Diego County. Yes Vote Nadine!

Terri wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:42 PM:It's evident that the cities of Vista and San Marcos listen to their residents. Obviously the City of Oceanside does not care what we think. Who is more important in Oceanside? Developers or voters. You make the call when you vote in the City Council election this year!

Counting wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:53 PM:ONLY 231 Days until WE HAVE A NEW COUNCIL

Frank of oceanside wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:54 PM:The three council menbers need to get out of their seats and visit the other concrete plants during operations. They will then see what a huge mistake they made in voting for the plant.

HOPE wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:03 PM:AND COUNTING.... VOTE NADINE or CHUCK!

Recall Sanchez wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:06 PM:Good for Businesses and residents in Oceanside! The tactics used with these groups has a name in our schools-Bullying. Do what i demand or else! Do as i say whether its zoned that way or not. If your really worried about your kids teach them to respect their fellow mans rights to express their feelings without fear of just plain UGLY behavior. All that followed these so-called leaders should wonder about the behavior they exhibited. Tacky, dumb and just plain mean-spirited.

HOPE wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:22 PM:Mr. Rocky sure likes to follow the zoning rules, but when it comes to following rules made by our Mayor for a 5 min. rule, he broke that rule because it was for his own good.
He voted in favor of the plant so whats in it for him?

Thank you Sanchez for your vote and truth to the "lies"

Its in the body Language wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:24 PM:Robertsons people croweded our city chambers, and none of the younger ones offered our Oceanside Residents a seat. What sort of company and ee is robertsons really about? All Lies...the future will show the truth.

I second Vote Nadine or Chuck!

TheRestofOceanside wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:32 PM:Let's all remember that Loma Alta Association is just a vocal minority. They do not speak for the majority of Oceanside. So what if there were 200 people speaking against the project? Oceanside has a population of 180,000. We can't let small groups of vocal people run our city and affect property rights.

Yep wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:38 PM:What sort of of company does not offer especailly the senior citizens of Oceanside a good seat....what does this tell ya of this company....

Go back to Corona, your not welcomed here and your money doesn't matter, plus the money the city will get is nothing these days.....

Can someone tell me what Fellers said? I don't understand his circled reasons?

I 3rd Nadine or Chuck in for our city council members Its time for CHANGE

Nope wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:55 PM:The rest of oceanside people- ummmm I don't agree that majority is the case here, we should all work together, and being a property owner is just that working with the local community minority or not. Be a proud property owner be aspired to help your community - NOT bring it down, again you must be thinking of your self....thats not the sort of business people we want in Oceanside...hey are you related to Rocky?

YoJustice wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:17 PM:Please, Nadine doesn't even have grass......duh.... the city should supply the poles with trashbins and doggie bags....LIKE ALL OTHER CITIES DO! Shame on YOU JUSTICE!

HMM wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:27 PM:What I'm reading today is just a bunch of whining, just like children who lose a soccer game! The Council made a decision based on facts not emotion. The Council was chosen by the people of Oceanside and apparently you all at the meeting voted only for Sanchez. The outbursts and name calling last night was honestly quite embarassing. Even Councilwoman Sanchez resorted to name calling and prejudice. Stick to the issue at hand, when all else fails slander someone for getting a seat early at a public hearing. I saw plenty of seats in the hall that were empty. You all need to grow up, its a done deal.

For Sale sign wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:49 PM:The pilots paid his entrance fee and now it seems other industries are going to pay Kern's annual renewals. It was too dirty for Vista and San Marcos, so let's put it in Oceanside. Yeah, that's it. Now Feller and Chavez can scrounge up a few more campaign dollars. Add that to the asphalt plant that's on its way (did you really think the Melrose extension was for residential convenience) and city money for the airport, and you see Oceanside's future. All those new condos downtown are going to be full of lobbyists.

November wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:26 PM:Calm down, folks. The biggest problem facing Oceanside today is dog poop, as stated by JKern. That shows where his thinking is. I did appreciate what Chuck Lowery said: "We don't need a pro-business council. We need a pro-CITIZEN council." Be prepared to support good candidates and incumbents this November.
FELLER, YOU'RE FIRED!

HOPE wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:32 PM:Sorry you are wrong there is something more than just points from a soccor game. Come on, its residents concern that all other cities said NO to a dirty, dirty company. Name calling, all I heard was truth, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that things don't add up on last nights topic. Whining no its called RESPECT Your elders. Where are those manners, I felt it was up lifting to hear outbursts!! Its awsome that much concern was in the air, your right Robertsons kept it clean because they allknew they paid KERN, ROCKY & FELLER enough to vote in their favor, and plus Not even majority of you all lived in Oceanside....sad sad. Sanchez ...(leave her out) she is up against a wall of teammates that don't play fair. She plays by the law! But guess you can buy your votes these days. Sanchez thank you for being honest, true and Really Concerned for the Residents...

We merely asked you all to look somewhere else!!

HOPE wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:33 PM:True to November! Enjoy the nice sunny day.

Three Strikes wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:35 PM:Jack voted for Manchester. He voted for the Lagoon Hotel and he voted for the concrete plant. Sorry jack. Three strikes you're out. You'd know that if you understood the rules of baseball at all the games the taxpayers pay for you to go to!

observer wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:38 PM:Last night when I entered the council chambers I thought I had stumbled into a convention of out of town concrete workers. Seated was a very large group of young men carrying their Yes On Robertson's signs and buttons. The person sitting next to me explained the methods used by management, etc. to "persuade" employees to attend. Usually it's if you want to keep your job...or I'll pay you to attend. As a former union worker I had first hand experience of the arm twisting tatics used to get members/employees to attend critical meetings. The Robertson's Lobbyists also did a good job of persuading the councilmember majority with gifts and no doubt other enticements to vote yes and scaring Industry Street businesses with the idea that approval of Robertson's plant will save their business from zoning changes. Lastly, I observed that intelligence is not valuable if it is not accompanied by good old fashioned common sense! The fact that the council chose to approve a plant contrary to the Oceanside Boulevard Vision, in a flood plain, by a waterway while ignoring the benefits of the Sprinter shows that common sense on the Robertson's issue was in short supply last night.

CRAZY NEIGHBORS wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:45 PM:Why would you bash Robertson's for not offering seats to elderly people at the hearing? Obviously members of the opposition didn't offer them a seat either. There were plenty of anti-Robertson's members sitting down. Of course you'd blame everyone else though- that's what you do. I've never seen a city so full of NUT-JOB neighbors. It's embarassing.

Observer wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:51 PM:Residents of Loma Alta and Fire Mountain should understand that knowledge and sound planning were the prevailing attributes that allowed for the approval of Robertson's proposed project. Not some under handed plot to side step the stringent regulatory compliance as described in CEQA. When neighborhood associations and special interest groups show up in droves spouting their emotional objections to a proposed project, they only defeat their main objectives when they come empty handed. There was not a single objection with any substantive factual information to support the denial of the Robertson's plant. I wish Robertson's great success as they move forward with their plans.

GFN wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:02 PM:Of course Rocky voted for it; he set you up for that with his article last week. Corporations yes; people no. Remember Rocky lives in the $1,000,000 house on the hill; he don't flip hamburgers!! And you saw that Kern is already telling you to conserve water for the tourists!!!!

MER wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:02 PM:My favorite was the lady with the baby. Her first line, "I work on Industry Street"...later, "I'm a stay at home mom..." Gotta love those stay-at-home mom's on Industry Street.

adiosamigos wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:16 PM:I have three words for the Three Stooges; bye, bye, bye.

Jerry wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:18 PM:Rocky, Jack and Jerome can apply for driving a concrete truck at Robertsons after they get booted out of office.

CROIT wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:31 PM:Looks like Nadine has a poop complex. Nadine, your metaphors fall flat. You lost. Live with it. And by the way, you babbled about all the pro Robertson people being paid. Wrong Nadine. Wrong again. Grow up Nadine.

Resident wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:02 PM:What a bunch of whiners.

It is a strategy; wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:21 PM:Name calling, disparaging remarks, when you can not attack the issue, attack their peoples character, honesty and integrity. It is not enough to disagree we must threaten project proponents and City Council leadership. No one is surprised at Sanchez's position on this issue or her rude and disparaging remarks; we have come to expect it of her. If you do not like the direction of the Council, by all means vote them out of office; just don't let the mean dispositions define our community in the process.

Air gap between the ears! wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:06 PM:Might as well recycle all waste for all of San Diego there too. We all just lost our chance to make Oceanside the place to live in North County. Would it not make more sense to place a concrete facility somewhere next to camp Pendleton, come on! Who in their right mind would place 300-400 concrete trucks on our boulevard. Great vision by our council…not!

Watchful Eye wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:28 PM:Like I said, go for it Robertson's. We made lots of headway cleaning up the Industry Street corridor for your arrival. Just remember, there are those of us who do not like dirty, illegal business operators. You just jumped to the top of the list already discovered on Industry Street. Your Plant will be an obvious stellar improvement compared to the rest of the discovered polluters. Like they say, "you can run, but you can not hide." A watchful eye is all it takes to bring on those fines and penalties in this City like you have paid in all of the other Communities you operate in.

Documented wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:39 PM:Unlike Robertson's outdated information and lack of willingness to pay their way in 2006, Nadine put the "little family owned" Mitsubishi/Robertson's bunch to task. They had to meet a real documentation challange and like their employee, Christine, showed their color. One week ago they learned they will have to pay to operate in Oceanside. Too many Corporations in this City operate with corporate office elsewhere and pay nothing. That has to stop. But that is up to us to bring to the attention of the Planning Commission and the NEW members of the next City council, certainly the City Manager.

Jojoclown wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:49 PM:
Rocky, you caved in to outside pressure and ignored the people who voted for you. Sorry I voted for you, but you will be out next election time. You sounded so pathetic and uneducated when you made your decision. WHAT ABOUT OCEANSIDE VISIONS? MANY OF US SPENT MANY HOURS planning how to create an environment on Oceanside Blv that would be attractive and a tourist mecca. Fine resturants and good shopping with places to walk and relax. Example the Cedros Desigh District. Rocky, it is called VISION-what we want our town to be like, it is called planning to change an old blighted area into an attractive GATE WAY INTO our TOWN! We have the coaster, now we need the good resturants, shopping or just nice landscaped places to relax and enjoy. Cement Factory!! Just because a business has the permits!!! What is your VISION! Oh I forgot -
you do not have an idea or plan. Any business that has a permit is OK with you!! It could be a strip joint or a massage parlor- you don't know the difference. As a resident near Oceanside Blv since 1975, I used to walk to the store, but there are far more crazy and homeless in the area. And, Rocky wants more!! Why did I ever vote for this chump!! I am Retired Military and Police,BA,MBA. Rocky how did you ever make it in the Marines? What kind of a degree do you have?

Trash & Trucks wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:08 PM:Lol, Air gap! We're already doing that--Waste Management just renewed their lease in that area for the next TEN years!

Wimp Meter wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:12 PM:The little x-Marine wimped out. Afraid to say no to a concrete plant. Does he care about Oceanside? Does he care about making Oceanside Blv into a nice respectable place to eat and shop? Any business with a permit is approved by the little man. I listened to him approve a hotel by the lagoon because they had a permit! Now a Cement Factory-they have a permit! He should take a class in Urban Developement. He is not getting my vote in the next election.

Jack, Rocky,Jerome wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:33 PM:You know what they say "if you lay down with dogs, you wind up with fleas." Bring on the exterminaters in November!

Pirate wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:51 PM:The blogs in opposition are for the most part the same as we hear on every issue from Sanchez and her ilk. No discussion of issues, just personal attacks and threats on the councilmembers they disagree with. Eight years of Esther Sanchez and her mean spirited behavior is enough. Ms. Sancez, please no more calling people liars because you simply disagree with them. Show some civility.

observer wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:51 PM:To Observer with a capital 'O'. I own a home in Tri City not Fire Mountain nor Loma Alta but I do use Oceanside Blvd. and care about Oceanside where I have lived for the past twenty-six years. My question is how many concrete plants in Oceanside are enough? Robertson will be #4 and the third by Loma Alta Creek. Even though it is state of the art, it's still a concrete plant with two 65 foot towers which can be seen from miles around and maybe even I5. A new landmark for Oceanside along with the city hall, pier and mission. Welcome to Oceanside! The vision has been blindsighted.

Big Planner- wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:21 PM:Some on the Council do not realize the potential this town has to offer. We have the potential to become another LaJolla or, Del Mar. Any new addition to this town should be weighted to this standard. When I see more check cashing places and other types of business and apartments that are approved it is apparent there are some on our council who are insipid and lack any understanding why they aprove of a particular project. Would they aprove a cement plant in LaJolla or Del Mar? NO! Then why in Oceanside? Oceanside was called Oceanscum when I moved here in 1975. I was warned not to buy a home here but I did, I could see our great beaches and our wonderful location. I could see the potential. Since 1975 I see more homeless and dirt on O'Side Blv. A council without a plan that approves any business with a permit is sad. A friend said it was graft and corruption, that was holding this town back- I think it is just too many city councils over the years without a plan for the city and lack an understanding of our potential as a city. We could become another Del Mar if that were the goal! Just knowing what you want and people on the council to make it happen! What would DeMar do? A cement plant-not!

Question wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:08 PM:I know that legal action has to take place next. But what about the Regional Water Quality Board? If the city was lax in the preperation of the neg dec why cant the RWQB call it for environmental review?

To Don R wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:58 PM:And where do you live? We don,t need your filthy cement plant in Oceanside. We pay our taxes and want a clean safe town. Out of town business owners don,t care about the town, just pollute and leave a mess and live in another town. Take it to San Clemente or Carlsbad! Silly signs! What the Robertsons signs were not silly?

DonR wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:20 PM:I've lived in Oceanside for 20 yrs. My Aunt and Sister live in Oceana. The gentleman holding uo the Oceana sign did not represent Oceana because almost all the units on my Aunts street signed a letter in Favor of Roretson's

To Don R wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:47 PM:Sure Don-next you will try and sell ice to the Eskimos. You are employed by Robertsons! That,s obvious.

Calm Down wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:56 PM:No one means to say that Robertsons' employees are bad people. At least I hope not. I think we all want what's best for the city and the future but don't share the same vision. Let's calm down and stop the accusations against individuals also. The voters will speak in November.

Osider wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:51 PM:Why in the world would the KFC crew approve this particular site right next to the creek if it wasn't for personal gain! This is the last straw with you trio because, you be voted out next time your up for election. HELLO, NO EIR on this project. WAKE UP AND GET A CLUE KFC!!

Larry wrote on Mar 21, 2008 1:26 AM:The opposition to the concrete plant is so intense, I would think that a smart corporation would give pause before going forward with construction. There may be constant lawsuits, constant monitoring by individuals of air quality, water quality, and noise violations; reports of legal violations by concrete trucks, etc. The opposition to this project is not going away. The 3-2 vote by the Republican majority on the Council is not a final victory for this project, not by a long shot.

Dutch wrote on Mar 21, 2008 2:45 AM:Jack Feller quit running for the mayor. Now he has quit following the VOTERS wishes. His council seat is in big jeporady! SEE YOU LATER FELLER...

True Colors wrote on Mar 21, 2008 6:35 AM:Ms. Sanchez is free to disagree and vote her mind. However, her mean spirited personal attacks on people must stop. Everyone who disagrees with you does not deserve to be called a liar, or worse, although I am sure you judgment of others is clouded by your own character. I did not think Robertson's was a good idea, even though I support property rights within the rules. But Sanchez’s antics Wednesday evening were way over the top.

observer wrote on Mar 21, 2008 8:49 AM:If you haven't driven on Industrial Street lately please take the time to see this area. It's like entering a third world country not a modern American city. Even the road is poorly maintained. During the council meeting a city staffer mentioned that it was on a long list for resurfacing but at this time there is no money to fix it. If you look at many of the heavy industrial areas of Vista, Carlsbad and lately San Marcus they offer models of what Industrial Street should look like - well maintained streets, underground utilities, sidewalks, street lighting, high walls or a least a screening of trees to block storage yards and the like. The Vision task force did not want to relocate any existing businesses. It wanted to improve the area and encourage new mix-use development that would bring more jobs and tax benefits to the city while protecting the creek and utilize the Sprinter station. I can't understand why any Oceanside resident would be against this vision!

Umm.. wrote on Mar 21, 2008 9:38 AM:Just like Pepsi sold off Yum Brands, it's time for Oceanside to get rid of it's own KFC Franchise.

..I can't wait for November.

Working At Home Mom wrote on Mar 21, 2008 9:47 AM:I'm the one bouncing the baby from 4:30pm to 10:30pm listening to KFC go through the motions prior to "rubber stamping" the concrete plant. ... Clearly their minds were made up AND futhermore they were not representing the many organized groups that were voicing their concerns at the meeting or in writing. The council is designed to oversee and use the discernment necessary to ensure that the growth of Oceanside will benefit us now and in the future. Since space is limited for growth and development, Oside leadership needs to ensure that what gets built will actually bring more to the city than they take. Let's do the math here and weigh the potential risks vs. benefits. There were enough vocal environmental groups concerned about this project to wake my baby and I up. Why didn't it work for KFC? Dissappointed! - WAHM

Good for Ester wrote on Mar 21, 2008 10:20 AM:Ester puts in on the line, the other three just play the nice dignified approach and stab you in the back. Look at Rocky-how he conned people with the Visions and then when it came to supporting Visions he voted for a dirty cement plant and over 400 additional trucks on the O,side blv. How does this make Oceanside Blv a better place?

Randy wrote on Mar 21, 2008 10:54 AM:Feller's seat is not in jeopardy. He has raised a great deal of cash for his truncated mayoral campaign, which will now be transferred to his campaign to retain his city council seat. Esther, on the other hand, has only a nominal amount of money available. Her seat is in jeopardy.

Kathe wrote on Mar 21, 2008 11:22 AM:I live in another state in a region that has more than one concrete plant. They burn toxic waste that is shipped in from other states as well as our own. They fall under a grandfather clause that allows them to not update their kilns to make sure the waste is being burned at a high enough tempeture to not be a health risk. On one hand it does create jobs. On the other it destroys the roads, slows traffic, poor air quality, and a higher than normal cancer level. We have fought for years to make them understand the impact they are having on our region with very little result. My comment would be, be sure you know what they can and can't do in your region. Once pandora's box is opened it's hard if not impossible to close. The cost in the long run may be more than is being considered.

To the Majority wrote on Mar 21, 2008 11:46 AM:Better look out. The "Activists" are coming to a neighborhood near you. They don't need facts. All you need to do is disagree with them, and next thing you know they'll be calling you calling you names, marching in front of your house, and chasing you from town. Like a modern day "gang", they run their neighborhood, believing they have the right to decide what is right and wrong, who stays and who goes, and how we all should think. There's not many of them, but that matters not. Woe be it to anyone that opposes them, whether it be a new business in town, a cell phone antennae, or the extension of a road. They know where you live, and are watching, ready to attack, ready to intimidate, ready to destroy. Like the uncivilized barbarian scourges of the past, they can't be stopped, will not be stopped, until we all are converted to their religious ways. God help us all.

GTG wrote on Mar 21, 2008 12:13 PM:Its about time that the city council stood up for what's right. It is very tiring having the council waste their time because of a few NIMBYs that can't look any further than the end of their street.....Go KFC!!!!!!!!!

Oceansider wrote on Mar 21, 2008 12:26 PM:Esther Sanchez has the gall to call people liars from the dais. Let me share a little story that shows that it's the pot calling the kettle black, or worse. At a meeting on the Melrose extension, attended by both Ms. Sanchez and Mr. Chavez, Ms. Sanchez said that she was the ONLY council member to vote against a zoning change from commercial to residential in the RDO area, on a 4-1 vote. I watched the meeting in which that vote was taken, and it was 3-2. Guess who the other opposing vote was? Rocky Chavez. At Wednesday's meeting, she asked a Robertson supporter who owned a business on Oceanside Blvd what his home address was, knowing that he lived out of the city. Funny, though, Ms. Sanchez never asked the same question of the woman who identifies herself as living at the Marron Adobe, which is in Carlsbad, perhaps because this woman agreed with Esther and opposed the plant. Shame on Sanchez.

HOPE wrote on Mar 21, 2008 12:30 PM:Wow, This is such a sad time for our Communities.... I work for one of the top health institutes in our nation. Its so sad no one understands the health that is at risk with any cement plants, and the enviromental impacts. They are a host of carcinogens, air quality, noise quality and much much more. No one did thier homework... :(. I am starting to think for sale sign and move to Carlsbad, or Cardiff, if our council, city planning, and city mangagement does not get it together! Things have to change, from rules, & zoning with such growth...Please get those changes done City Employees. A lot of peoples health is at risk for what was approved Thursday night.

To Hope wrote on Mar 21, 2008 3:40 PM:Please, sell your house, and move. Take the rest of the activists with you. Many of us are just plain tired of listening their same old stories, obnoxious behaviour, etc. Some of you are saying there's no hope for Oceanside? That the leaders don't realize what they have here? Are you all crazy? Please, just for a while, be quiet.

No Hope...Take Nadine wrote on Mar 21, 2008 4:12 PM:Hope, Please sell your house, and move. Take the rest of the activists with you. Many of us, dare I say a majority (at least in the activist sense of majority) are just plain tired of listening to all the same old stories, obnoxious behaviour, etc. Some of you are saying there's no hope for Oceanside? That the leaders don't realize what they have here? Are you all crazy? Please, just for a while, be quiet.

MajorityRules wrote on Mar 21, 2008 4:49 PM:Remain calm as the Titanic sinks. Note that those who believe in the message of KFC attack anyone who cares about their home or their city. YOU are called names like activist, crazy, "Nadine", or yes, bin Laden! Those namecallers above are obviously among the last 5% of the population who believe that everything is OK (or they're still undecided). Well, FYI, we're not waiting while the ship sinks. We're taking action and we're taking back OUR government. Even though they might not get it on the national level, WE get it here in Oceanside. YOU and your lack of concern are the problem. WE are going to elect qualified candidates and re-elect those who represent us in November. AND BTW, Jack spent all of his big campaign money on polling studies. So sorry, he'll have to get more money from Mitsubishi.

Our Bolulevard wrote on Mar 21, 2008 5:12 PM:This has nothing to do with activist! This is about a vision for our community and what we leave as a legacy for our children and future residents. This decision shows the council has absolutely no vision only short sited focus on generating cash by supporting growth with no care about what it all looks like in the future. 50 years from now you and I may not be here but the boulevard will. Unfortunately it will just look like it does today because of this stupid decision. Folks, this is the only east/west main thoroughfare to the cost highway except for freeways. Our Council has decided the boulevard is mainly for cement trucks, aggregate truck, trash truck, service truck etc. It could be so so much more but it will remain as a blight in our community. All traveling will wonder why Oceanside is so dirty looking. A Council with a vision would develop a master plan and work toward moving the utility nature of this area out. It does not matter what the zoning is today its what do you want it to be zoned for in 50 years. It takes time and leadership to convert land use to a new value that improves our community. The Council members that voted for this knuckle headed decision must go. Its not about the cement plan its about the use of our boulevard. They do not have a clue what they have done they must go.

To Oceansider wrote on Mar 21, 2008 6:14 PM:I was at that same meeting re the Melrose extension, standing room only, where we were ALL AGAINST the extension, save one person. It was CHAVEZ who claimed he was the only council member to vote against a zone change from commercial, and it was A RESIDENT who corrected Rocky, REMINDING HIM that SANCHEZ ALSO voted against it. None of us knew where that guy lived, we all (most of us) know where the Marron Adobe is. Is that the best you can come up with? ... Plllllleeeeeease!

Dear Ben wrote on Mar 21, 2008 6:33 PM:...aka "Oceansider" ... that was you taking notes, right? At the Melrose Extension meeting? Can't understand how you got that wrong, since you WERE taking notes, but it was Councilmember Chavez who first said that he was the only one who voted against more residential. Mrs. Malick corrected him, and Chavez apologized for forgetting how the vote went down. Not sure why you brought that up. Oh yeah, you suggested that both Sanchez and Robertson's are liars. Well, I can understand why someone would be upset after hearing that Robertson's concrete plant, with over 800+ concrete truck trips a day, will not have an impact on traffic or on our roads. My own alley is pretty torn up by the Waste Management truck, and that doesn't come by near as often as the concrete plant trucks are going to be. And you can't compare standard-sized cars and the traffic they generate with concrete plalnt trucks. I suggest we get over the things that were said under the emotional impact of the issue and address the facts, and the facts are that Robertson's is not giving us correct information. I won't say that its with malice, I won't even call it greed. Every business is motivated to minimize the bad stuff and overemphasize the good. Its up to our policy makers, our representatives, to filter out the salesmanship "puffing" and get to the bottom of what's good for Oceanside. Having listened to both sides, I feel that the council majority made a huge mistake. Oceanside is built-out, the oldest city in North County. It doesn't make any sense to have a 4th concrete plant in the city. More importantly, why on earth would we put a concrete plant within 5 mintues from the beach (i.e., prime real estate)? It just makes no economic sense. And just something like 17 employees? Can Rocky call for a review of his decision?

To Hope wrote on Mar 21, 2008 7:41 PM:I think your right and the others who say its about the future. We want to have this area remembered for people who have had a great vision. Don't move, stay strong, its nice to know there are people who still care, know what is right and wrong, and want the government to work for the peoples best in all aspects. Keep the hope and please keep all the others.

HOPE wrote on Mar 21, 2008 7:46 PM:Oh my, I just love my first amendment right. :)

Mike S wrote on Mar 21, 2008 10:49 PM:Industry needs to go somewhere and "INDUSTRY RD" probably wasn't an accidental naming. We are not talking about someplace you take kids for a picnic. The whole area was once Hughes electronics labs and plants.

Oceanside is a 'blue collar' town if you didn't notice Ester and Jim. As a layer/professional politician and retired cop/professional politician y'all are the least qualified at telling everyone else where they should do real work and what kind of real work they should do.

Oceansider wrote on Mar 22, 2008 7:10 AM:Well, you folks at the Melrose extension meeting got it wrong, sorry. Malick from the audience first brought up the 4-1 vote on changing commercial to residential zoning, by way of accusing Chavez of supporting this change. Sanchez then got up and claimed that she was the lone vote against. Then Chavez got up, thanked Malik for reminding him of that issue, and reinforced that he also voted against the change. A review of the council vote will support his position. And no, my name isn't Ben. But I do have excellent recall of exactly what happened at that meeting.

Some Respect; wrote on Mar 23, 2008 6:54 AM:I do not support Robinson's but I support the process and our representative government. However, I do not take kindly to the disrespectful treatment that Council Member Sanchez put forward from the dais whenever someone disagrees with her position. Her terrorist antics have run off most of the city staff and accusatory style is best saved for defending the accused she represents as a Public Defender.

To Oceansider wrote on Mar 23, 2008 11:48 PM:Not Ben? I am sorry for the mix-up, as I knew just about all my other neighbors and you were probably the only one there a stranger. I also stand by what I heard, and I've had a chance to speak with others who where present. Councilmember Sanchez was trying to help answer questions and was not the person who brought up the change in zoning of an unrelated project. That, in deed, was Councilmember Chavez. The reaon, I suspect, that Mr. Chavez brought up another project is because he was defending his actions for voting for the Melrose Extention prior to the expansion of 76 and prior to the update of our circulation plan. Ms. Sanchez was not on the defensive, as she had not voted against our neighborhood and better planning practice. While it is very possible for two different people, hearing the same thing, coming away with 2 completely different version of what was said, I have had the opportunity to confirm my own version. Again, not sure why you are bring up this unrelated, minor exchange.

Truck Traffic wrote on Mar 26, 2008 8:56 PM:What I want to know is, where were all the complaints about traffic from heavy trucks when the Coca Cola distribution center opened up in Ocean Ranch?

Jacob L. wrote on Jul 23, 2008 5:21 AM:YOU ARE ALL IDIOTS!!!!