The Concerned Citizens of Jackson is wasting no time preparing for a June 3 election they played a role in making more relevant for city residents. A local Jackson issue on the ballot will include measures A and B, which could decide whether the Jackson Hills Golf Course and Residential Community goes forward.

In May 2007, the Jackson Planning Commission voted 3-2 to recommend denial of the project, which would include an 18-hole golf course and 540 homes at build-out. Then, in September, the city council adopted resolutions that certified the environmental impact report and amended the city general plan to allow for the conversion of agricultural land on French Bar Road to allow housing development.

Consequently, Concerned Citizens of Jackson gathered more than 750 signatures from city residents the group says are concerned about impacts to Jackson's traffic, wastewater and public services. The group is saying the potential costs to current residents would far outweigh the possible benefits promised by New Faze, a development company from Sacramento.

Arguments for and against the ballot measures are now being solicited until Feb. 22. Rebuttal arguments will be due March 3. Concerned Citizens is now working to inform Jackson residents of what members are calling the misleading promises made by the developer to the city and prospective buyers. Members will be canvassing neighborhoods in March, April and May. Visit www.nojacksonhills.com for more information.