The Burlingame Voice

The final vote!

In a tense meeting this evening, the council finally got to consider and vote on the Safeway project. Terry Nagel led the discussion off with a spirited speech and a resounding No, claiming she 'never, ever' wants to see this plan again.

Nagel was supported by Cathy Baylock who pointed out that this project has lingered around Burlingame for over seven years, and that the council owes the applicant a definitive answer.

Councilman Galligan invoked ' patriotism', 'support of the elderly', 'non-voting renters' and claimed that the only the people who were opposed to this project were the wealthy (he can inspect my tax return anytime he wants!) and pointed out how much Safeway has given to the community!

Mike Coffey, true to form, reneged completely on his campaign promises, and supported the applicant, saying that the project had changed since the planning commission vote. What changes?

It was up to Mayor O'Mahony to cast the deciding vote. She was tempted to soften the blow to Safeway, and Galligan relentlessly tried to get city planner Monroe to define what a 'significant ' revision would be. He nearly trapped O'Mahony into defining what would be acceptable but in the end Ms. O'Mahony voted with Nagel and Baylock.

Now Safeway must return with a significantly revised project, one that will be subject to design review.

- Written by admin

The jury is out

Last night in a packed city chamber, Safeway appealed the 6-1 planning commissioners vote against their long standing project. The ever-so-busy local attorney Mr. Mark Hudak used his honey tongue to give a 'do or die' presentation for his client that, as usual, obfuscated the facts.

Then some forty three residents and local merchants gave their impassioned pleas to the council to uphold the planning commissioners vote while six residents, developers and Safeway employees urged the council to overturn the vote and approve the project.

With the clock at 11pm, Mayor Rosalie O'Mahony closed the public comment period and adjourned the council discussion and vote until Tuesday evening at 7:30 pm when hopefully clear minds will prevail.

I wonder what wheeling a dealing will be taking place behind closed doors today?

- Written by admin

Is that clear?

Who can forget Mike Coffey's unequivocal support of the Planning Commissioners decision on Safeway at the candidates forum on Thursday October 16, 2003?
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Will he be so clear on Monday?

- Written by admin

Towles Cafe

There is a great article about the namesake of Towles, Mr. Robert Towles visiting Towles this week.

New owners Meg and Maureen have done a great job of updating the restaurant with their own style but keeping the integrity and charm that we all love about this restaurant. The jazz idea is great,the murals on the exterior walls are beautiful and, all in all, this is a true Burlingame gem. Even a past customer like Bing Crosby would approve!

- Written by Rosaline