Meriam Mountains

This is a large residential/commercial development situated north of Deer
Springs Rd. Between No. Twin Oaks Valley Rd. and Hwy. 15. Their plans
originally called for over 2300 homes, as well as a shopping center and
apartment complex. They recently redesigned the project to increase
the open space acreage, but at the same time, increased the number of
residential units to 2700. Local residents are strongly opposed to the project
due to increased traffic and the impact it will have upon our community
atmosphere. A recent article in the North County Times (February 26, 2006)
presents their current plans. Representatives from TOVEA as well as others
opposed to the project were interviewed. Since that time, we met with
Merriam Mountains representatives and proposed an extensive trail plan to be
implemented by Merriam Mountains throughout the open space owned by this
project. Patty Morton has represented TOVEA in this endeavor and is working
with Merriam Mountains developers closely to design a trail system that the
entire community can enjoy.

TOVEA remains opposed to any large development such as Merriam
Mountains, which compromises the rural ambiance of our community. We
remain vigilant especially with respect to the recent developments concerning
fire safety for this project. They propose a SIP (Stay In Place) program.
TOVEA as well as all other community groups are greatly opposed to this
proposal. We are working closely with "StopStonegate" (Stonegate is the
name of the developer), a Hidden Meadows community group that has worked
diligently against this project and we will keep our members informed as this
project makes it's way through the approval process.