Universal City Plan Revisions

* Universal Studios’ expansion plan has already been slashed nearly to the bone, and government planners want to again apply the scalpel (“More Changes Asked in Theme Park Plan,” Sept. 18). Should that happen, the injury would run deep, an injury that would be felt by the thousands of medium and small businesses in the Valley that serve Universal City, and by job seekers looking to become part of the entertainment industry.

The plan has already been cut back by more than 40%. Out the window went 7,000 jobs and millions of dollars that would flow into Valley businesses. How many times can a patient go through surgery and survive? The odds aren’t good. So instead of taking out that knife again, government officials should stand firm and approve the plan. Universal will then be able to deliver on its commitment to invest millions of dollars in the future of Los Angeles. And the Valley economy will continue to brighten.

The alternative is a grim one--a project that is DOA. No one wants that scenario, for we all lose.

DAVID HONDA

Chairman, Valley Economic

Development Center Inc.

Van Nuys.

* Are the government planners trying to drive more business away?

Universal has been a blessing to the Valley, employing many thousands of people over the years.

I recently lost my business (after 30 years) due to irresponsible restrictions on local business while other locations offer many incentives.

Over the years we have seen a good percentage of filmmaking go overseas. Let’s not continue this trend.

RALPH SORRENTINO

Toluca Lake