Councilman Pat Burt expressed concern for downtown Palo Alto, noting, "For those of us who have known the downtown for decades, it really has gradually deteriorated in its condition and its attractiveness to retail." He highlighted the need to keep pace with surrounding areas, indicating a desire for revitalization through interventions like a vacancy tax.
Councilwoman Julie Lythcott-Haims noted, "Things are passing us by. Other cities are eclipsing us," emphasizing the urgent need for action to enhance downtown's appeal to both residents and visitors. She, along with Lythcott-Haims and Councilwoman Lydia Kou, advocate for a vacancy tax to spur property owners to adjust rent and improve conditions.
Burt indicated that while there may have been initial skepticism regarding a vacancy tax, support could grow if it were used to directly benefit the downtown area, stating, "There would be a lot more support for that concept if it was clear that the dollars were going to go into helping the downtown and everybody there.
Addressing the challenges faced by downtown, Burt highlighted troubling issues such as "Drug dealing at Lytton Plaza and homeless encampments in parking garages" that detract from community engagement and business success, signaling a need for comprehensive strategies beyond simply addressing vacancies.
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