Slow-Growth Initiative Myths

Slow-growth initiatives have recently been certified as qualifying for the ballot in Orange County and several cities within the county. With this news comes the expected doomsday report from opponents of the initiative.

A recent survey states that should the initiative be voted into law, Orange County will no longer be affordable for a portion of the work force; low-income housing will no longer be affordable for a portion of the work force, and low-income housing will no longer be possible due to lower densities mandated for developers.

What a joke, as if Orange County is affordable now. Does anyone really think this county has what it needs now in the way of low-income housing? We desperately need low-income housing in Orange County. But enacting the slow-growth initiative isn’t going to prevent this.

Another myth the survey touched upon is that if the initiative passes, Orange County will not have a large enough work force, due to expensive housing. What is a large enough work force? Our economy is doing great. Does that mean we have a large enough work force now?

The developers and builders will spend thousands of dollars attempting to scare the voters into believing economic doom will prevail if the slow-growth initiative passes. The developers may, in fact, make less profit--maybe that’s the economic doom they are predicting.

MORGAN KENNEDY

Huntington Beach