Chamber Backs Resort Proposal

Much has been written recently in your paper regarding the proposed destination resort at Long Point. To the board of directors of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, the hotel development seems overwhelmingly beneficial to the Peninsula.

Take, for instance, the recreation value alone. The project would offer a golf course, tennis club and health spa, each with public access. Presently, the Palos Verdes Peninsula has no major hotel, and through the proposed project, the residents of the peninsula will benefit by having a 495-room destination resort hotel at Long Point with conference center, restaurants, and a ballroom for charity and grad nights and weddings and receptions.

While Marineland was operating, one had to buy a ticket in order to take advantage of the spectacular coastline. The proposed project will offer public access to the bluff paths. Major consideration has also been given to protecting the native plant life and marine wildlife at Long Point.

Finally, the proposed project will benefit the community economically. The hotel will employ over 690 people, providing employment for many on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Furthermore, the Rancho Palos Verdes environmental impact report states that the hotel will benefit the city with over $2 million in tax revenues each year. The hotel is also expected to provide a significant boost to retail business throughout the peninsula as guests of destination resort hotels typically want to patronize restaurants, theaters and shops in the general area.

The Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the Long Point destination resort hotel plan and is urging the city of Rancho Palos Verdes to give it speedy approval.

STEVE FOWLER

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Chamber of Commerce