Soka Gambled and Lost Little
As a representative of many trail users--hikers, equestrians, bird-watchers, dog-walkers, nature-lovers--I attended the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting concerning the Soka property.
It seems to most of us that Soka University chose an improper location for its expansion. The Mountains Recreation Conservation Authority has always wanted the location to be the center of its operations when the area becomes a national park.
The Times used the word “seize” in an inflammatory manner--as though Soka will be ousted without remuneration. Soka University will receive full market value for the property as determined by appraisers on both sides, and with arbitration if necessary.
We believe that the development of a national park in the Santa Monicas will benefit a far greater range of people, for generations to come, than a university to further Japanese culture. The Ventura County supervisors’ unanimous decision in favor of the authority was cause for elation among those of us who feel this portion of the Santa Monica Mountains should belong to all people.
LIZ BLACKWELDER
President, Trails Council La Canada Flintridge
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