Shoop reappointed to Planning Commission

Stephen Shoop is looking forward to the next four years on the Orland Planning Commission.

"It is going to be an exciting time," Shoop said. "I get to continue on. I am just getting wound up."

Shoop served two years on the commission, and was recently reappointed to a four-year term. Former Mayor Wade Elliott also was appointed to the panel.

Shoop is pleased to be looking at new businesses coming into town such as the Grocery Outlet and Dollar Tree stores in Stony Creek Square, he said.

The commission gave the green light to a 100-foot sign to advertise the grocery store where it will be visible from Interstate 5.

As for challenges, Shoop said he will see what those are as the year progresses.

Defining agricultural buffer zones is one interest he has on tap for his next term.

"We need a better look at where those buffers are to go," he said. "We can then know where, when and how to grow the city."

Downtown Orland is not changing a lot right now, he said, so he does not have much to say about it.

Change there depends on whether or not building owners want to tear down or re-model some old structures, Shoop said.

"I like the restoring of the old hotel at Walker and Fourth streets." he said.

Shoop moved to Orland from San Jose about six years ago and sees serving on the Planning Commission as a way to work in the community.

He is retired and wants to give back, he said. His wife is on the board of the Orland Food Pantry and enjoys that group.

Elliott is on vacation this week and could not be reached for comment.

He did not seek a second four-year term on the City Council in 2012. However, he indicated then he wanted to continue to serve the community.