Ahmanson Ranch

* Re “3rd District Rivals Agree They Oppose Ahmanson,” March 28.

I appreciate that The Times has focused on the Ahmanson Ranch project in the 3rd District Council race, as was done last month in our Calabasas elections. As you may know, the city of Los Angeles joined with the city of Calabasas plus seven other litigants in the first major lawsuit over this project.

This is a complicated fight over a multitude of public safety issues, with traffic being very important, but only one facet. In addition to the obvious environmental concerns over air and water quality, endangered species, etc., there are serious concerns about policing and fire coverage. I assure you that the lawsuits will continue, as this is not a developer that seeks to mitigate anything more.

Ahmanson Ranch is a regional concern. To date, we have all avoided parochial issues to focus on the wider regional concerns. Over the years, I have enjoyed a good working relationship with City Council member Laura Chick and also with her predecessor, Joy Picus, that included coordinated actions regarding the Ahmanson Ranch project.

I would hope that the partnership with L.A.’s 3rd District will continue with its newest Council person.

LESLEY DEVINE

Calabasas Mayor Pro Tem