From: Chiye Azuma <chiye@cazuma.com>
Date: March 16, 2005 11:09:03 PM PST
To: Gus Amirzehni <gamirzehni@oaklandnet.com>

Cc: cityochang@aol.com, Nancy Sidebotham <nannystu@pacbell.net>, Julie Gantenbein <gantenbein@n-h-i.org>, jquan@oaklandnet.com, mjneary@oaklandnet.com, Friendsof2Creeks@yahoogroups.com, klichten@waterboards.ca.gov, dbrooks@oaklandnet.com, Nancy Nadel <nnadel@oaklandnet.com>, lcestes@oaklandnet.com, Mark Brest van Kempen <mbvk@sbcglobal.net>, wmadison@oaklandnet.com

Subject: old sewer pipes in Chimes Creek

Gus,

Thanks for your call today.

Here are some photos (Trash) from the creek from this past Sunday, March 13 that show abandoned sewer pipes in the creek.  While we appreciate the City's recent efforts in clearing a good portion of the sewer debris in the creek, there are still old pipes and construction junk left from years past that should be removed.  I am submitting these photos to you as you seemed unsure as to what to do with these remaining pipes.

 I understand there has been some discussion with regard to the removal of the old Walnut tree that has been in the creek since the mid-80's.  That is not my issue here.

I am having trouble understanding how the city goes all out to educate the public about the importance of protecting our creeks and watershed, and then turns around and treats this small, fragile and mostly hidden creek like a dumpster.  For decades.  If you are still in doubt and feel it is necessary to do so, please have the City's creek experts determine whether these pipes need to remain in the creek.  As you have pointed out, I am not a creek expert, but it is quite obvious that these pipes do not support the embankment.   Just because these pipes have been lying in the creek for the past decade does not mean that they have become an integral part of the creek bed.  Perhaps I misunderstood you, but It is extremely disturbing that you seemed to be arguing that this is indeed the case.

I think it would be helpful if you would find some time in your busy schedule to begin to communicate with the community so that we will better understand each other.

Chiye