Dana Point’s Win-Win General Plan
As one who led the loyal opposition to Dana Point cityhood, I’m now perplexed by the flurry of vitriolic letters about the city’s new general plan (“Votes for and Against Referendum on the Dana Point General Plan,” Aug. 25). The writers somehow seem to feel that it is a prescription for rampant growth.
Horsefeathers!
As opponents to cityhood, we were naturally concerned about uncontrolled growth under city leadership, but, in all fairness, we were wrong. Good sense prevailed and the general plan provides for considerably less density and traffic congestion for the large, remaining empty parcels in the Headlands and in Monarch Beach.
In the Headlands, the new city plan cuts previously planned density (under county auspices) in half, provides new beach access, a park and considerably more usable open space. If even more is desired, why don’t the good critics promote a bond issue to acquire it?
In Monarch Beach, we were slated for a county approved 1,100-room hotel and substantial housing. Today, the city plan allows a 400-room hotel and 238 houses--dramatically down in density and traffic count.
Give the devil his due. We are better off by far and are witnessing responsible planning by the city. Let the dissidents beef, but better they take aim at a reasonable target. In land-use matters, the general plan is a win-win guideline for the residents of Dana Point.
JIM DAVY, Monarch Beach
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
