Letters Letters (March 19, 2004)

Time to put a lid on development

Editor,

Your recent editorial (March 12) "Don't stop home building in Pleasanton" misses the point. Pleasanton, after current projects are complete, is close to the current housing cap. Due to quality of life issues regarding traffic, overcrowded schools, aesthetic considerations and environment concerns, the citizens of Pleasanton have the right to demand that buildout is done right. We need to maintain the current wonderful quality of life in Pleasanton.

Where is it written that every hilltop must be graded and developed? Where is it written that access to new projects must be granted through existing neighborhoods, changing their character and culture? Where is it written that we must add to the overflow of traffic through neighborhoods on Touriga and Angela?

There are many that would argue that Pleasanton has already reached buildout. In any case, what few new housing units that are allowed in the future should reflect smart growth, with access to main arteries and close to highways/mass transit. There is also a need to have most new units be affordable to young families starting out, to our teachers and public servants, and to older residents on fixed incomes. The new General Plan, the election process, and perhaps even referendums, if necessary, will determine how that is done.

We are not anti-developer as you suggest. The developers, with guidance from the General Plan process have done a great job. However, we must let that process continue to work. We are not trying to stop eight-unit developments. However, 75-unit-plus projects can wait a few months until the new General Plan is in effect. Lou AstburyHearst Drive Expand waterslides

Editor,

I have read in your paper many negative views against the expansion of the current Waterslides in Pleasanton. I personally would like to see the Waterslides updated and expanded into a facility that all ages could enjoy. Over the years my children have had end-of-the-season Little League baseball parties there and we have always been treated great. I believe the remodel and improvements they want to do to the Waterslide Park would be good for the city, community and our children. Jeff BlauForsythia Court Thanks for generosity

Editor,

I would like to extend my warmest thanks to the Tri-Valley community for their generous support of Open Heart Kitchen's second annual Auction & Crab Feed. Our goal was to raise $20,000 and we far exceeded that mark with a total contribution of $32,000 - or the equivalent of 21,000 meals! Scores of volunteers donated their time and talents to guarantee the event was a success. Countless merchants and individuals donated items for the live and silent auctions, drawing and other activities. And 200 people attended the event, opening both their hearts and wallets to raise money to help feed the hungry in our area.

We are truly grateful for the generosity of everyone involved in the event to help Open Heart Kitchen continue its mission of "Feeding the Hungry of the Tri-Valley." This community is truly the "heart" in Open Heart Kitchen! Tina GregoryAuction Chair

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