Crystal Cove Isn’t Meant for Resort

* Thank you for your editorial April 6 questioning the wisdom of constructing a high-end resort in Crystal Cove State Park.

My belief is that public lands belong to the people, and not only those who can afford $400 per night for rooms with a view.

Our beaches, unfortunately, are being steadily encroached upon by “progress.” The Wilson administration’s plan to allow a 60-year concession for a resort is a good example of bad government at work.

The beach at Crystal Cove is one of the most beautiful anywhere. Let’s keep it as it is, a park and a refuge for those who need the healing powers of nature in their lives. It should not be merely another source of revenue for developers.

BETTE ANDERSON

Laguna Beach

* Crystal Cove will be anything but “idyllic” (Times, April 4) if the state’s plan goes through.

To fully appreciate just how goofy this thing is, quite apart from the whole idea of giving a state park to a “developer,” you have to know that the plan calls for “landscaping” the area.

Excuse me? It’s already “landscaped,” and if the folks behind the plan don’t like our local flora, I suggest they go back where they came from. My native turf doesn’t remind you enough of Ohio? Fine. I’ll help you pack.

NORM FRAHM

Corona del Mar

* I guess it’s true that history repeats itself. Over 200 years ago our relatives fought for freedom from the same kind of [activity] that has transpired at Crystal Cove--a pact between developers and old state park personnel.

Contracts were made in secret, without a hearing and without representation. Boston tea anyone?

What about the people who bought the land in 1929 with a bond measure, land that is now being given away for a fraction of its worth, or the legality of the 1982 plan for Crystal Cove barring luxury accommodations?

What about the $500,000 the Parks and Recreation Department receives annually from the cottages alone and the $1.5 million it receives annually from the trailers at the end of the cove?

I wonder what our Founding Fathers would have thought when the California Parks and Recreation Department makes the most incredible statement that there is no money to bring the buildings up to code, therefore a luxury hotel.

BRENT OGDEN

Laguna Beach