Opposition to Sale of Water District

The Times article of April 11 concerning the current takeover attempt of the Santa Margarita Water District by the California American Water Co. was very disheartening.

For almost a year now there has been an ongoing debate on this issue within our community. To date, the community is unanimously opposed to this takeover for the following reasons:

* The community loses local control.

* The water district would be sold at half price.

* There would be substantial capital assessment charges even after current bonds matured.

* Research indicates that districts managed by Cal-Am pay higher rates.

* Cal-Am misled the community during its petition drive.

You would have better served our community if you had reported the facts in this matter. The real story here is how much Cal-Am would make if this takeover is successful and the precedent it might set for the takeover of other water districts.

JIM TAYLOR

Trabuco Canyon