Hon-Zuckerman Development Plan

On May 19, the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will discuss and act on the Hon-Zuckerman request to develop Sub-Region 7 on Palos Verdes Drive South at the entrance to the city.

According to California law, the council must comply with Coastal Specific Plan policies that have been approved by the California Coastal Commission. Plans for the development of Sub-Region 7 require a bluff-top road with ample parking for the general public, pedestrian/bicycle trails, and open space.

A proposed 18-hole golf course will cause irreparable damage to on-site natural water courses, coastal sage scrub (including the California gnatcatcher habitat) and habitat for other bird and animal groups. The developers have admitted that from 40% to 50% of the coastal sage scrub will be impacted. Pesticides, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides which accompany golf course use will add contamination to the area under development.

Recently a Barry Hon spokesman told the Planning Commission that fees could be in the $150 to $175 range for one round of golf. Will peninsula residents pay to play at such a price?

The geological safety factor of some of the proposed acreage is highly questionable. Let the developers, Hon and Zuckerman, build their 83 home sites--the lots alone will probably sell for more than $1 million each--and dedicate the rest of the land as permanently preserved natural open space.

If you are concerned, come to the May 19 City Council meeting at 7 p.m. at Hesse Park. The decisions now being made about development along our coastline affect all citizens who use and enjoy this precious California heritage.

ELIZABETH M. KELLY, Rancho Palos Verdes