There are a few items that are of great interest to us all happening this month. Here are the highlights.
Ruby’s leaving Seal Beach Pier
It is with sorrow that I confirm that Ruby’s has chosen not to continue its lease with Seal Beach.
While the city respects Ruby’s decision not to renew its lease and thanks them for their service to the community, it saddens us all.
Per the agreement the city and Ruby’s entered into, the rent on the restaurant was raised because of Ruby’s failure to meet the terms and conditions they had agreed to and were bound by.
Ruby’s was fully aware that their rent would be raised as a result of failing to meet its commitments.
Ruby’s chose not to meet its obligations despite the agreement they made and ultimately decided to leave Seal Beach on its own accord.
Our family ate there again last Friday night and are all saddened by Ruby’s failure to meet its commitments as well as by its decision to leave our pier.
Already, several other family-friendly restaurants have expressed interest in the location and the city will pursue those interests. The city is releasing an RFP (request for proposals) and everyone—including Ruby’s—is welcome to submit a proposal to lease the premises.
I look forward to the restoration and improvement of the location and am confident that the new management will be a family-oriented establishment that residents and tourists will enjoy for years to come.
If you would like to discuss this with me further, please call.
Ocean Avenue alleys
The Ocean Avenue Alley is having water and sewer mains rehabilitated.
The water and sewer funds are paying for replacement of the alley surface after the utilities are replaced. Construction for this project was awarded by the City Council on Dec. 10. It is anticipated that the construction to the first phase will begin in mid February. A public meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m., Jan. 10 in the Council Chambers to discuss the project and its impacts to the residents and businesses. The second phase will likely bid in May 2013, shortly after the FY 2012/13 budget hearings. Following with an award in July of 2013 after the budget is passed.
Introducing our new police chief
Our new Police Chief Joe Stilinovich comes to us from Long Beach and is imminently qualified to lead our force.
He has already been out walking Main Street and visiting with residents and business owners.
The chief is familiar with visitor serving beach communities and understands our needs as residents in a visitor serving area.
We will be holding a meeting here in Old Town to meet the chief and discuss our vision for policing in Old Town with his team. Watch your inbox for the date and time.
Plan to come and share your views.
Pier improvements
There are three projects being planned to improve our pier. Those projects are 1) pier decking, 2) pier utilities and 3) pier structural improvements. The city continues working on ways to keep the pier clean and attractive and a fun place for all. Thank you to the Lions Club for all their hard work in refinishing the benches.
Seal Beach Boulevard Bridge widening
I hope you are finding ways to avoid the traffic going over the bridge. Once it is completed it will be very smooth going, but getting there is going to take time and patience.
If you need any information on freeway closures or other information regarding the construction, please contact the Orange County Transportation Authority at www.octa.net/westcounty or if you prefer, you can e-mail: wccproject@octa.net. If I can be of any assistance please contact me.
Ellery Deaton is the Seal Beach councilwoman for District 1, which includes Old Town and Surfside. She may be reached at (562) 743-4355.
