Jack O’Connell and New University

Re “Hospital Transferred to CSU as Freeway Sign Points the Way,” Oct. 2.

Sen. Jack O’Connell, do you hear the thundering applause? It is for you from Ventura County folks who appreciate your unflagging labor to make sure the legislation passed that finally created a four-year public university here in Ventura County.

All of us--current students at CSUN’s Ventura Campus, young people who will be able to continue their education, middle-aged folks who want another degree without a two-hour drive through traffic and those who just want to be near a university--are lining up to ask that the central parkway be named the Jack O’Connell Promenade or that a prominent building be named in honor and gratitude for what you did.

For more than 35 years, others tried, but you did it! When our local legislators were lukewarm, you were supportive. When our local legislators were antagonistic, you were enthusiastic. When controversy raged, you picked up the ball and ran.

After the governor announced that Camarillo State Hospital would be closed, you didn’t sigh, “What a tough pill for a neighboring district to swallow.” Instead, you identified an opportunity and crafted several pieces of legislation, then shepherded them through the Legislature while massaging with finesse to gain passage. So it must be you to whom we express our appreciation.

Thank you, Jack.

CHARLOTTE CRAVEN

Mayor

Camarillo