Workshop focuses on light-rail system

Paul Clinton

To stimulate discussion about a light-rail transit system as a

solution to increasing traffic congestion in Orange County, Mayor Debbie

Cook has scheduled a workshop for today.

Cook invited urban planner Alan Hoffman to speak at the event, which

will be held in the council chambers of City Hall, 2000 Main St.

“I don’t think the public sees this as a burning issue,” Cook said.

“When I heard this man speak at a workshop, I thought the public would be

interested.”

During the workshop, Hoffman, Cook and members of the public will

share views about ways to improve mobility in the county and design an

effective transit system.

The workshop is scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and is free to the

public.

Hoffman is one of the founders of the Mission Group, a cutting-edge

private planning firm based in San Diego. Hoffman has had input into a

number of major metropolitan projects, including San Diego’s

“TransitFirst” plan.

He is a consultant to the San Diego Metropolitan Transit Development

Board and the San Diego Assn. of Governments.

He has also been involved in transit planning for Riverside County and

metro Atlanta.

Cook gained council approval in January to replace the traditional

Mayor’s breakfasts, which have typically included a city staff member

providing updates on certain projects with workshops that will be open to

staff, council members, the public and members of boards and commissions.

Speakers come to talk on a myriad of topics, such as openmeetings

requirements, ethics, problem solving, resolution skills and regional

issues. The $2,500 previously budgeted for Mayor’s breakfasts has been

used for the workshops.