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Proponents of the Ponte Vista project rarely rely on actual facts to bolster their arguments. Perhaps, that's because the facts keep changing. The whole premise for plunking down 2300 units (now reduced to 1950) relies on an emotional appeal for affordable housing for both low and middle income families and seniors. Were you approached at a supermarket with a petition supporting either one of these? What you ended up signing was a petition to support 2300 (now 1950) units at Ponte Vista, at least that's what the Bisno Development Corporation contends.
The real issue is not about either one of these issues, it is about population density and the impact a project of this size will have on San Pedro and surrounding communities. Who doesn't support affordable housing for everyone? It is a slam dunk.Never mind that the project doesn't really solve the issue of affordable housing. It turns out to be one of the most expensive per square foot housing options around. The problem with the Ponte Vista project is that it's the wrong fit. It's like Cinderella's step sisters trying to squeeze into her glass slipper.
So, it's not a matter of Ponte Vista, to be or not to be, but how big will it be. In the eyes of R Neighborhoods Are 1, it will have to be much, much smaller and, at the present, that still means R-1 zoning.
The following are letters to the editor that appeared in the Daily Breeze over the years. Rather than address the real issue of density, some just miss the point others resort to name calling or character assassination. From ranting elitists to religious zealots to the lunatic fringe to tantrum throwing toddlers, these are some of the labels that people who support R-1 at Ponte Vista have been given and it's not surprising they have finally used the "N" word (screaming NIMBY that is.) I guess it's easier than sticking to the real issues and facts.