Why the Battle Over Building Permits?

Why do so many building permit applications need to become a battle and a torture for property owners?

I am not familiar with the details of the proposed 59,000-square-foot estate on Tower Road in Beverly Hills (Times, Feb. 28), but I know that if a person spends a lot of money to buy three lots, it is the buyer’s privilege and right to build on it as large a home as he or she wishes, provided it conforms to the building codes.

It is none of our business whether Mr. Robert Manoukian wishes to reside in his house two months out of the year or whether he chooses to use his ballroom once every three years. The Planning Commission and the community are beginning to interfere with private matters that should be the basic right of property owners.

RICKI HANYECZ

Beverly Hills