To the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and Planning Department,

We, the undersigned residents of Bryan Ranch, respectfully request an appeal of the tentative approval to remove protected trees to accommodate the installation of a large number of solar panels at the entrance to our neighborhood.

While we support sustainable energy initiatives like solar power, this project raises significant concerns that require further review and community input:

Loss of Protected Trees: The removal of these trees contradicts the County’s natural resource conservation guidelines, as outlined in the Open Space Element of the County’s comprehensive plan.
Neighborhood Identity and Scenic Beauty: The entrance to Bryan Ranch is a natural and scenic landmark that defines our community’s character. The proposed solar panels would irreparably alter this important aspect of our neighborhood.
Environmental and Wildlife Impact: The trees play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the hillside and supporting local wildlife. Removing them may disrupt the area’s ecological balance.
Lack of Transparency and Community Engagement: Over 300 residents were not notified of this project, nor given the opportunity to voice their opinions about the substantial changes it will bring to our shared community.
We ask the County to grant an appeal to ensure:

A full investigation into the environmental and aesthetic impacts of the proposed tree removal.
Exploration of alternative solutions that allow the solar panels to proceed without removing the trees.
A public hearing so that the voices of all Bryan Ranch residents can be heard before a final decision is made.
This appeal is not about opposing solar energy; it is about ensuring that decisions affecting our community are made with transparency, fairness, and careful consideration of all impacts.

By signing this petition, we express our support for an appeal and request the County to give the residents of Bryan Ranch the opportunity to be heard.