Girl Scouts Property Access

Re “County Must Settle Scouts’ Land Fight,” Ventura County editorials, Oct. 3.

I have been involved with the Girl Scouts of Tres Condados Council as a volunteer for many years, and I am concerned about the smear campaign launched by approximately 15 residents living adjacent to the Arnaz Program Center, owned by our council near Ojai.

I would first like to express my appreciation to our many sponsors who support this outstanding youth organization for girls. I participated in the entire Scouting program as a child and truly believe in the goals of Scouting and the benefit it offers to girls. I’ve continued to be involved as an adult leader, event director, service unit manager, council and national delegate because I still believe it makes “girls grow strong.”

I have directed and attended many events at Camp Arnaz. I chose this facility for camp-outs because I believe it is safe and secure. It’s a beautiful location and leaders feel very comfortable not having public access to the property.

Next to Arnaz, approximately 15 residents own property that is separated from Highway 33 by the San Antonio Creek. In heavy rain the creek floods and these residents are unable to cross to the main road. They feel our facility should be made available for them to have access to their property. Sometimes this situation lasts for days, sometimes for as long as four months. As a parent and volunteer, I have a great concern for the safety of the girls and feel that vehicles driving through the campground is unsafe.

I am glad that the council places such high value on the safety of the girls and is willing to fight this issue. The safety of the girls is a priority, especially because more than 5,000 girls visited the Arnaz Program Center this year.

I feel very badly for the Girl Scouts in the Ojai area who have been affected by this problem. This is not a issue about the Girl Scouting organization, and I am opposed to the negative comments being published by a few unhappy people. I am proud to be a part of the Tres Condados Council and I am glad the council realizes the need to keep Arnaz a safe facility for the girls.

LINDA McWADE

Simi Valley