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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEvans, Leslie_Mayor_and_City_Council_Public_Comment__unredactedOutlook Public Comment Support Letter From Leslie Evans Date Wed 6/17/2026 11:45 AM To PublicComments <publiccomments@sbcity.org> 1 attachment (154 KB) Launch Pad Support Letter.pdf; Caution - This email originated from outside the City - Verify that the Email display name and Email address are consistent. - Use caution when opening attachments. June 17, 2026 Mayor Helen Tran and Members of the San Bernardino City Council RE: Support for Launch Pad and Opposition to the Proposed McDonald's Appeal Dear Mayor Tran and Members of the City Council, My name is Leslie Evans. I am the Founder and CEO of With Open Arms Inc., which serves youth and families experiencing homelessness and housing instability throughout the San Bernardino community. I currentlyserve as a Planning Commissioner in my city of residence and am writing in my personal capacity. Having lived in San Bernardino for five years and continuing to serve vulnerable youth and families throughout the city, I care deeply about the future of this community and the decisions that shape its growth anddevelopment. I respectfully urge the City Council to uphold the Planning Commission's decision and deny the appeal for the proposed ninth McDonald's location. San Bernardino has worked diligently to establish a vision for future growth that promotes economic opportunity, community investment, and sustainable development. Land use decisions should advance thosegoals and maximize long term benefits for residents, families, and local businesses. As the Founder and CEO of With Open Arms Inc., I see firsthand the importance of thoughtful community development. The choices made today will affect the economic opportunities, neighborhood quality, andoverall well being of the individuals and families we serve. I believe San Bernardino should continue pursuing development that aligns with its long term vision and creates opportunities for local investment,entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth. While national chains have a place within our economy, communities must carefully consider whether additional drive thru development represents the highest and best use of valuable land resources. The PlanningCommission determined that this proposal did not align with the city's broader planning objectives, and I believe that determination deserves significant weight and consideration. Projects that encourage entrepreneurship, support local businesses, increase economic diversity, and contribute to walkable, community oriented development provide benefits that extend far beyond a singlecommercial use. These types of investments help build stronger neighborhoods, create pathways to economic mobility, and foster a more resilient local economy. San Bernardino has tremendous potential. As someone who once called this city home and who continues to work alongside its youth and families every day, I hope to see development decisions that reflect a boldvision for the future and create lasting opportunities for generations to come. Thank you for your leadership and thoughtful consideration of this matter. I respectfully ask that you uphold the Planning Commission's decision and deny the appeal. Respectfully, Leslie Evans Founder and CEO, With Open Arms Inc.