ARCATA -- Being true to form, Humboldt State University President Rollin Richmond has taken the concerns of Arcata residents into consideration.

HSU's 40-year Master Plan had slated a 15-block area adjacent to campus for acquisition, demolition and conversion to a campus living area. The acquisition of the Bayview neighborhood would have removed historic homes in the area and have an impact on Arcata's historic resources.

However, after working with Arcata City Councilwoman Connie Stewart and listening to neighborhood residents' concerns, Richmond decided to remove the neighborhood acquisition from the university's master plan for the time being.

Richmond made the announcement, which was followed by a round of loud applause from residents in attendance, at the Arcata City Council's meeting on Wednesday night.

"This reflects Rollin's commitment to working with the community," said Bayview neighborhood resident Mark Wheetley. "We're so happy he reached this conclusion."

Richmond walked into the full City Council Chambers carrying a bouquet of flowers given to him by residents of the Bayview neighborhood and placed it on the podium when making his announcement.

He thanked Stewart for her alternative visions in providing the city and university with affordable housing.

"I'm very concerned about our ability to strengthen and build HSU in the future," Richmond said. "And housing will be part of that issue as well. I pledge to work with you as quickly as we can to find moderate priced housing for staff and faculty."

Richmond said when he retires within the next decade he hopes to look back and make sure the university is secure and able to recruit high-quality faculty and staff.

"I am just so grateful to Dr. Richmond," said an emotional Stewart. "It's a new day at HSU and I'm so proud to be an alumni. Thank you for being my friend and a friend of this town."

Arcata Mayor Bob Ornelas wiped away tears as well after Stewart's heartfelt speech.

Humboldt County Supervisor John Woolley thanked Stewart for her work in bridging the gap between the neighborhood and the university and commended Richmond on his decision to remove the neighborhood acquisition from HSU's Master Plan.

"This is consistent with President Richmond's values and a true sign of leadership to be able to be a listener at a difficult time," Wheetley said.