ORANGE : Only One Measure Grabs Voter Interest

Of the two city ballot measures slated for the June 2 election, only one has consistently been on voters’ lips.

Measure Y, a controversial bond initiative to purchase 33 acres of open space in central Orange, has dominated the election debate, while Measure Z, an often-defeated initiative to switch the city treasurer from an elected to an appointed position, has generated little interest. No formal arguments were submitted against either measure.

Measure Y supporters are asking voters to “Keep Orange Green” and help pay for a maximum of $25 million in bonds to acquire the property that runs roughly along Santiago Creek between Hart Park and Tustin Avenue, and preserve it and the creek that runs through it as permanent park space.

“The city is short on parkland by national standards and this is a way to get some very precious open space,” said Howard Decruyenaere, founder of the Santiago Creek Greenway Alliance.

A study commissioned by the alliance last December showed communitywide support for a bond issue to pay for acquisition of the property.

Now, however, support is wavering because residents say the initiative is vague. Many have complained that it lacks specific costs for purchasing and improving the land, although city officials recently revealed it could cost at least $66,000 a year in maintenance.

“I feel that the community needs to support this measure, understanding that this is the only way the council will know that (we) want this,” said Ralph Masek, president of the Santiago Homeowners Assn. “But I have to express concern over how the price of the property will be determined.”

City officials say residents would pay less than $25 annually for the land purchase, but some community activists who once worked to preserve the land now say they don’t want taxpayers to foot the bill, regardless of cost.

“I supported Santiago Creek and worked hard for it for two years when they were seeking grants (to purchase the property),” said Carole Walters, president of Orange Pac. “But when it goes on people’s property taxes, I can’t support it.”

If the bond measure fails, the property will be developed with up to 240 townhouses and a neighborhood commercial area.

Measure Z would change the city treasurer from an elective to an appointive position, but similar measures have been defeated at least three times, most recently in November, 1990, said City Clerk Marilyn Jensen.

In general law cities such as Orange, the treasurer is an elective slot unless a majority of voters approve a change.

City Council members, who are backing a change in the treasurer status, argue that the position should be open to a wider pool of qualified applicants. According to state law, treasurers in general law cities must be residents and registered voters in the city, limiting those eligible for the job.

In addition, revelations that the city lost $7 million in an investment scandal masterminded by Newport Beach money manager Steven D. Wymer should prompt voters to want a tighter rein on the city’s money, they say.

“You have to really look for people who would be qualified to run for office,” Mayor Gene Beyer said. “If (the treasurer) is appointed, there’s direct accountability to the council.”

The treasurer is responsible for investing, banking and disbursing city funds, among other duties. The city’s last treasurer, Lorraine Schade, retired mid-term two years ago. Since then, the position has been held by Jim Evans, assistant city manager.

If Measure Z is defeated in June and the treasurer remains an elected position, an election will be held in November for a four-year term.