November 13, 2003
NCA's response to Georgia Pacific Corporation's public meeting to present the GP sponsored Sedway Group Plan for the site redevelopment.

September 7th, 2003
NCA led community planning process to create idea maps for the GP site and a response to the September 7th GP site tour /public meeting.

August 2nd, 2003 GP Site Tour

July 13th, 2003
Community planning session to prioritize mill site redevelopment ideas generated at the March 4th small group brainstorming sessions.

May 20th, 2003
Presentations by: Bob Gearhart on the Arcada Marsh and its applicability to the GP site; Neil Peacock on the grass roots democratic process; and Linda Ruffing on the relationship between the Ft. Bragg General Plan and the mill site redevelopment.

April 8th, 2003
Presentations by Ft. Bragg City Government and community members on specific mill site visions.

March 4th. 2003
Community small group brainstorming session on mill site redevelopment ideas.

Published in Community Forum in the Mendocino Beacon and Fort Bragg Advocate
March 14, 2003


IN COMMUNITY WE TRUST
by Thaïs Mazur, NCA

On Tuesday evening March 4th, a historical meeting took place at Fort Bragg Town Hall when over 150 people gathered from the coastal communities to talk about their visions for the Georgia Pacific Mill Site. For the first time, citizens of Fort Bragg have an opportunity to help shape the future for the 433 acre coastal front property that has been owned by lumber companies for over one hundred years. This land comprises almost one-third of all of the land mass within the city limits of Fort Bragg. What was so satisfying about the meeting was the feeling of REAL community.

A presentation was given by Jim Tarbel about the history of the land and its uses. City councilman Dave Turner described the general plan and how its provisions effect the future of the GP property. In response to a citizen's question, Turner pointed out that the percentage of the city's tax revenue base provided by GP has declined in recent years as GP has gradually reduced its operations. Therefore, the consequence of change of use will not have a devastating effect on the city's overall budget. Steve Heckeroth spoke about sustainable and renewable energy and Wally Clark addressed issues of the Pomo people. Members of North Coast Action (NCA), David Russell and Loie Rosenkrantz, gave updates on the work that NCA has been doing to gather information and resources to focus community input on possible uses for the GP property that would benefit the community and the greater North Coast.

People then divided up into small groups and brainstormed possible ideas for the property. Everyone was invited to contribute their ideas. Some of the ideas included:
• eco-tourism/ eco-park
• marine biology research center
• locally owned small lumber mill
• community sustainable agriculture
• business incubators
• cultural arts center
• aquatics park
• coastal access and park
• fabric arts demonstration center
• artists showcase
• affordable housing
• wood working school

This is our chance, as a community, to create a cornerstone that will enhance the entire North Coast economically, culturally and educationally in a healthy and sustainable way. The next meeting will be held April 8th at Fort Bragg Town Hall, 7 PM and is open to everyone. If you are interested in presenting an idea or would like to become involved with North Coast Action please call: 964-3094.