HomeMy WebLinkAboutLaunch Pad Support Letter
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 currently serve 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 and development.
I respectfully urge the City Council to uphold the Planning Commission's decision and deny the appeal for the
proposed 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 those goals 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, and overall
wellbeing 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 Planning Commission
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 single commercial 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 bold vision 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.
1906 Commercenter Drive,E.
San Bernardino, CA. 92408
Suite 200
(909) 789-0109
www.withopenarms.com
withopenarms@gmail.com