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TWENTYNINE PALMS CITY COUNCIL PART 2: MOTORIZED OFF-ROADING ON CITY TRAILS
Today we finish up our report on Thursdays four-hour marathon meeting of the Twentynine Palms City Council. In part one Friday we looked at master plan details. Today, part 2, the very contentious issue of motorized off-road vehicles on city trails…
The most contentious part of the Twentynine Palms City Council special meeting this past Thursday night concerned Off Highway Vehicle activities in the City. An earlier draft of the General Plan update had discouraged development of OHV parks and trails in the City, "as it represents a detriment to tourism and high quality life style". In December, the Planning Commission had modified that recommendation, as follows: "Consider possible OHV uses and trails in the City, but not in Downtown." Council heard advocates on both sides of the OHV fence, as well as some who tried to sit on that same fence, make their cases. One resident complained of being threatened and attacked by OHV users, and that trespassing riders had built a fire on her property. A succession of OHV enthusiasts talked about their wholesome, family-centered activity, and its potential to bring a large amount of revenue to City businesses. Other speakers predicted that application of the California Environmental Quality Act will be the ultimate decider in the issue. City staffer Randy Councell, who has been working with the Trails Committee of the General Plan Advisory group, said that the committee planned to address non-motorized uses of trails in its next meeting. But the City Council directed him to bite the bullet, and consider OHV usage as well; regardless of the passions it arouses, and come back with a comprehensive approach to recreational trails.

Source Z1077 FM

Thanks to everyone who attended!