The Santa Clarita City Council said goodbye to nine members of the Newhall Redevelopment Committee (NRC) whose contribution, although greatly appreciated, became moot once redevelopment agencies were dissolved by Governor Jerry Brown.

“Thanks to your dedication and partnership with the city, Old Town Newhall has transformed into a premier arts and entertainment district,” said Mayor Laurie Ender.

Ender also said she hopes the enthusiasm of the former members continues since they’d played such an important role.

Former Chairman Phil Ellis indicated that he and other members were not going away.

“We’re all disappointed with what’s happened with redevelopment but we’re not quitting. As a matter of fact, we going to have our first informal meeting tomorrow night, so we’re going to continue our efforts to keep up in downtown Newhall,” said Ellis.

Laurene Weste thanked the NRC for doing the best job anywhere.

“You have brought a light to our area and we’re proud of you,” said Weste.

WHAT’S NEXT? A CONVENTION CENTER

Ender said she asked City Manager Ken Pulskamp and his staff to create goals for the city during her year as mayor.

“I said, what’s next? Let’s do what’s next. I appreciate you really thinking outside the box. This is a great what’s next up,” said Ender.

That great next up is a 40,000-60,000 square foot facility designed to meet local community needs and regional business demand.

Last year the city hired PKF Consulting to conduct a feasibility study and their analysis concluded that there was sufficient demand for convention center.