McDonald’s Right to Build Disputed

Mr. Ted Brown’s letter (Times, Feb. 18) asserting that McDonald’s can build whatever they want in Altadena deserves a response.

First, Mr. Brown’s contention that since McDonald’s owns the land where they propose to build, they can do what they want is simply not true. Many valid concerns have been raised as to the safety of this site because of its location at the very busy intersection of Lake and Altadena Drive.

In addition, the character of McDonald’s may clash with the character of the Altadena community. After years of neglect, Altadena is reviving its long and varied history. An article in the Pasadena Star-News on Feb. 18 stated that a recent survey of homes north and west of the intersection of Lake and Altadena had identified over 600 homes of architectural merit. And this survey only covered a quarter of the Altadena area. How well can a fast-food hamburger carry-out compliment and enrich such a neighborhood?

Surely Mr. Brown understands the importance of maintaining some integrity and unity in any neighborhood. I feel certain that one could dream up an addition to the property next to Mr. Brown’s that might overwhelm even his feelings of the sanctity of private ownership. Perhaps a car dealership or an all-night gas station would do.

Finally, Mr. Brown uses the example of West Virginia as a place where no growth and development has resulted in poverty and stagnation. Ironically, West Virginia might better be viewed as a perfect example of the irresponsible conduct of corporations that have cut the forests and stripped the land in search of coal, only to abandon the state once they have made their buck. We need only look to the Brazilian rain forests or our own redwood forests to see examples of the same attitude of rapacious abuse of private ownership for short-term gain.

Maybe a McDonald’s in Altadena doesn’t touch such resonant worldwide chords, but for the citizens of the area, we would like something a little better. As for Mr. Brown, since he lives in Pasadena, maybe he should focus his concern there and let the Altadenans fend for themselves.

PRESTON ROSE, Altadena