Development Proposal for Laguna Knoll
The highest point in Laguna Beach is being planned to be bulldozed, permanently destroying the last remaining 360-degree vista where Lagunans can enjoy ocean and Saddleback Valley views. Of course, it is often said that you cannot stop “progress” and that a developer has the right to develop his private property.
But this property is public property with the Laguna Beach Unified School District as its steward. The district is planning to sell its school site on Alta Laguna Boulevard and has devised a plan where, according to the environmental impact report, “every biological feature on the knoll will be destroyed.”
What kind of environmental lessons should our children learn from the district’s actions? Their plans calls for 270,000 cubic yards of grading, destroying the knoll; they certainly do not respect the land. The district is also a big promoter of the Laguna Laurel project with the building of 3,200 houses in Laguna Canyon.
Most Lagunans are concerned about protecting our quality of life and our open space, especially Laguna Canyon. Most Lagunans are concerned about excessive grading and the increasing traffic and congestion problems. I would like to see the school district remain independent but not at the cost of raping the environment and developing Laguna Canyon.
We all must work to preserve Laguna Canyon, save the knoll, and stop the district from promoting excessive grading and increased development. Our children deserve better lessons.
GENE FELDER
Laguna Beach
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