Mountain Land

Re “L.A.’s Land Purchases in Mountains Criticized,” Feb. 14:

The remaining portion of undeveloped land in the Santa Monica Mountains has much value in the way of biodiversity (preserving natural habitat), aesthetics and recreation. Los Angeles stands to lose a very important resource by risking our remaining undeveloped spaces to developers and decision-making politicians who reap fortunes at the public expense.

It is of value to L.A. residents to be able to escape the concrete jungle and have access to natural places within arm’s reach. If we stop trying to solve issues year to year and come to realize that we stand to lose this land permanently once it is developed, the only solution is to act immediately and impose a moratorium on further land development. Perhaps the park funds allocated for public land purchases could then be diverted for the inner-city park improvements and even improving access to the Santa Monica Mountains.

AARON MILLER

Santa Barbara