Supervisors Mecham and Arnold talk Templeton

Posted: 6:13 am, March 15, 2013 by Publisher Scott Brennan

Frank Mecham and Debbie Arnold talk Templeton

The two San Luis Obispo County supervisors have districts splitting Templeton

Debbie Arnold

Frank Mecham

Templeton is undoubtedly one of the most charming, picturesque places to live with its Americana inspired downtown, rolling hills and promise of country living. As the popularity increases, so do the challenges facing this historic community. The San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors provide service to Templeton. The Mission Statement of the The San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors, promises, “the legislative arm of the County government, is committed to the implementation of such policies and the provision of such services that will enhance the economic, environmental and social quality of life in San Luis Obispo County.”

Templeton, an unincorporated community, falls in both District 1 and 5 in the county and is represented by County Supervisors Frank Mecham and newly elected Debbie Arnold. Both are positive about what sets Templeton apart from the rest of the area and are aware of its challenges and future.

Mecham explains how Templeton fits into the grand scheme of SLO County and the key decision makers for the area, “As one of the largest unincorporated, and one of the fastest growing communities in SLO County, land use decisions are based on the County’s General Plan. The county is, and should be, continuing to incorporate the input of both the Templeton Advisory Council as well as the Templeton Community Services District when making land use determinations. Currently, both the Design Guidelines and the Community Plans are being updated with community input.”

Arnold is humbled by her recent election victory and is enamored by what Templeton offers, “Templeton is a wonderful community located in the heart of wine country. It is a favorite stop for visitors to the county and does a great job of show casing the county’s history with it’s unique downtown. Templeton is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery on the Central Coast. It is famous for it’s restaurants and shops, excellent schools and friendly people.”

Pointing out more of Templeton attributes, Arnold adds, “Templeton is a unique blend of historical buildings, a thriving agricultural community, a service center for the county, and home to a state of the art medical facility. It is a close-knit community and a wonderful place to raise a family.”

Both Arnold and Mecham agree that the growth of Templeton is positive and driven by a few different industries. Meacham notes, “A tremendous asset to the Templeton area, as well as the entire North County is Twin Cities Hospital. That, along with all of the doctor’s offices and medical services has changed the dynamic of our area considerably. The growth changes have inspired some to want Templeton to bring in more business and commercial users.”

Also mentioning Twin Cities as a major asset to Templeton, Arnold adds, “the growth of the wine industry, and the residential growth west of town are some of the major changes that have influenced the town of Templeton in the past thirty years.”

Templeton is slated to have a busy year with Mecham explaining a major project in the works, “The ongoing drainage study is an important study that will have direct bearing on other projects that are necessary in Templeton. For example, in order to resurface Main Street, there will be significant grading…yet, until the drainage is completely understood, resurfacing will have to wait. I’m hopeful that we can come to some determination as to the condition of Hwy 101 and North Main St. improvements and get moving on that.”

Templeton looks to gain more housing according to Arnold, “Probably the most high profile change to Templeton will be the building out of the residential project at the Templeton Sales Yard location. This project has been approved by the prior Board of Supervisors, and when completed will add a higher density residential option to the north end of town.”

She is positive about growth and commercial business success. She credits many of those involved, “The community of Templeton has done a great job maintaining the town’s country charm. I think with the continued level of involvement by the community future growth should include direction from the community. The residents and the Chamber have done an excellent job and should be congratulated for the work they have done to maintain a viable downtown commercial area.”

As in most parts of the county, water will be an issue for Templeton. Mecham points out that this issue is ubiquitous in the state of California, “At a recent LAFCO (Local Area Formation Commission) convention, all 58 counties were asked what their biggest issue and concern was. Ninety-nine percent said water. I do believe we have the ability to address this and have some possible solutions. However, they will take inter-jurisdictional cooperation, political will and of course, money.”

Agreeing, Arnold adds, “Water supply and basin issues will continue to be an important issue. I look forward to working with the Templeton CSD and County Public Works to insure that the citizens of the North County continue to have a clean and dependable water supply.”

Mecham outlines Templeton’s obstacles for the future, “Templeton’s uniqueness is its challenge. The demographics have dramatically changed over the past ten years. How Templeton decides to maintain its small rural feel and also incorporate new business and growth will be its major challenge.”

Both Supervisors see the community of Templeton itself as being the strength in the community’s success and encourage everyone to get involved. Arnold seeing volunteerism as a main component, “I know that volunteerism is alive and well in the community of Templeton. Becoming involved by coaching youth sports, 4-H, the Templeton Community Services District, the Templeton Advisory Board, the School Board, the Chamber of Commerce, or becoming involved with the efforts to build a library in Templeton are all great ways to get involved.”

Mecham invites residents to reach out to County leaders, “The best way is to be more involved, or at least more informed, is to speak to your local representatives on the Advisory Council, Community Services District representatives and at some point attend one of their meetings. In addition, my office is always available for questions and/or meetings if requested. You are also always welcome to attend the Board of Supervisors meetings whenever it might fit your schedule or your interest. You can always reach me at our office (805) 781-4491, and when speaking to my Legislative Assistant,

Vicki Shelby you are welcome to make an appointment or submit a question. You can also email either of us at fmecham@co.slo.ca.us or vshelby@co.slo.ca.us

Whatever the future holds for Templeton, it will certainly be a community effort led by strong leaders, community members and organizations. Similar to its counterparts across the country, this small town that encapsulates a piece of America that is deserving of preservation and responsible growth.

By Brandi Stansbury, Templeton Chamber Guide