30 years!
30 years from now most of the city's activists will be gone, gone gone. Young adults who are today 25 will be 55. If only these young adults would join the discussion now, we might find a vision that will work in 2039. Instead of the current voices of the 60 to 80 year old residents, we could learn from a younger population.

The Downtown Visioning process seems to be producing ideas that will work in the future. Sorry is the council that ignores its highly paid consultants.

This editorial reminds us that we, who live in Menlo Park cannot continue to look backwards when planning for tomorrow.

I agree with the sentiments expressed that the time for change is now. It is wrong to allow a few people to delay the process now, just because they disagree with the findings of the consultants and the committees that have been working long and hard on the plans for the redevelopment and revitalization of the downtown area. It's not like they weren't given the opportunity to express themselves previously, or even participate in the planning committees. On the one hand, it's refreshing to see people interested in the future of their community, on the other hand, if they're just going to dig their heels and become vocal against any vision for the future of creating a vibrant downtown, it's not going to help.
As a homeowner in Menlo Park, it's sad to say, but I currently go into Palo Alto to enjoy the nightlife there. Most of the shops in Menlo Park close early, and the variety of restaurants and shops in Palo Alto are just superior to what Menlo Park has to offer. Menlo Park has a lot of catching up to do. First step would be ensuring that the current business stay open later. Providing more family friendly establishment would help, and more of a nightlife for young people. Our teenager routinely goes into Palo Alto, or Redwood City with his friends to spend their money. None of them consider downtown Menlo Park a decent destination. As the editorial points out, Menlo Park needs a facelift and rejuvenation. Why wait on making some basic changes that can attract more business now?

The Menlo Park downtown works fine right now. It is pleasant and peaceful and you can get your shopping or dining or whatever completed with a minimum of complications and enjoy the experience.

Why in the world, go off on a tangent, which the downtown merchants and parcel owners are opposing. Why try and stuff ever more housing into this area. Our General plan works well for this area, it is a silly waste of time, effort and funds to carry this further.