Politics & Government
Mission Viejo Awards Street-Safety Contract for Montanoso Construction
Residents show up to oppose and support the project, the first phase of which dissenting Councilwoman Cathy Schlicht describes as a "$200,000 failure."
Amid some criticism, the Mission Viejo City Council voted 4-1 to award a contract to build curb extensions and a raised median on Montanoso Drive.
Officials awarded the $188,100 contract to engineering contractor Kormx, Inc. at Monday’s 6 p.m. City Council meeting.
The bid is part of the second phase of the Montanoso Drive Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, aimed at slowing down speedy drivers.
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The proposed traffic changes are mainly for the north end of Montanoso Drive between Morales and Estanciero. The city made similar changes between Oso Parkway and Morales several years ago, according to a city staff report.
Councilwoman Cathy Schlicht cast the sole dissenting vote, saying that phase one of program had not slowed down drivers.
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“This has been a $200,000 failure,” Schlicht said, “I find it difficult to support something that has already failed and is causing more problems.”
Councilwoman Trish Kelley voted in favor. “We really do have a problem with that street.
“I would like to see us go ahead,” she said.
During public comments, two residents supported the program, and two opposed it.
Resident Jim Grissom said he was in favor.
“When I come down Montanoso, I take my life in my hands,” he said. “This thing needs to be done.”
In contrast, Debra Stanley, who lives on Morales street, disapproved of the council’s plan, saying that some locals had been left out of the planning process.
“This is not in the best interest of the residents involved,” Stanley said.
Mark Chagnon, city director of public works, said that everyone within 500 feet of the proposed area had been notified.
“This is not something that just kind of slipped past people,” Chagnon said.
After the vote, Stanley said officials ignored her.
“Basically, they just went ahead and did it, and it didn’t matter what anyone said tonight.”
To read the text of the agenda item click here.
The next City Council meeting takes place Feb. 7, with the open session at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at 200 Civic Center Dr.
