Considering Utility Switch in S. Laguna

It is my understanding that the Laguna Beach City Council will be considering changing utility companies at the May 3 meeting. Once again, the South Laguna community is an item on the city’s agenda. When annexed, we were told by city officials that nothing would change in our community. Well, here we are again.

It surprises me and makes me wonder why the city of Laguna Beach is in such a hurry to make a decision with such far-reaching impact.

Just as the second-unit issue was not an item that could be quickly decided, so is the matter of changing utility companies.

If a change in utility companies is effected in this community, it will be the first time in the history of the state of California that such an action is taken by a municipality. It seems unreasonable to undertake such a sweeping action without further study.

As pointed out by the South Laguna Civic Assn. at its April 7, meeting, why should South Laguna be a test case for the Public Utilities Commission, as this is being discussed in other south Orange County communities? If the council wants to represent the community of South Laguna, it should follow the recommendations of the South Laguna Civic Assn. not to take a stand on the utility companies’ territorial battles.

In light of the rate changes pending with both Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric, let us wait to see what develops. There is no pressing need to implement such changes in the immediate future, and the passing of time may shed new light on the appropriate decision.

MARY S. REYNOLDS

Laguna Beach