Open space decision matters

In the face of skyrocketing rents, seemingly endless development, increasing traffic congestion, and roads and neighborhoods unprepared to deal with it, particularly on the city’s south side, this would be an opportune time for the “powers that be” in Santa Fe to take a good look at its present and future. Not just that, but consider its presence in lore and reality as truly the City Different. I’ve lived in the Tiempos Lindos subdivision for eight years, near our 22-acre designated parkland or open space, between Agua Fría Street and Airport Road, adjacent to South Meadows Road. It has been so designated, originally by the county, for over 20 years. It is under siege as we speak.

Officials at Homewise (developers known for affordable housing) are requesting another (amended) zoning change to reflect an alteration to their original plan of 96 units or homes and a charter school. The density of that proposal was unimaginable to anyone living in the area.

Now, they are agitating for 161 units and a “five-acre community park” with no charter school in an effort to appease those of us who want the open space to remain as it is. The density of the new proposal is still untenable. This open space is cherished by the south side due to its proximity to schools and neighborhoods and because of the dearth of such pristine land in our area. It’s a unique ecosystem, as the several hawks who hunt the modest wilds of the space will attest to.

It is fenced and its trails maintained. It boasts dramatic vistas and abundant spirit of place, so rare in an urban environment. It’s home to juniper, several varieties of cacti, snakeweed, purslane, saltbush and other high desert shrubs.

A glimpse into Santa Fe’s future can be seen on either side of this issue. We urge everyone concerned to join the Zoom ENN zoning hearing at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.

John Macker Santa Fe