Two “letters to the editor” have appeared in The Malibu Times, written respectively by Cheryl Jacobson, and Doug O’Brien. These somewhat nasty and pitiable comments directed against Bob Purvey have no place in a reputable publication. It achieves no purpose, is not constructive and truly constitutes a distraction from the controversial issue of the Legacy Park design and implementation. I was not at the meeting which prompted these malicious words, but I know that Bob Purvey, like other environmentalists .is concerned about the restoration of the wetlands.
I, myself, thought that to be a true “Legacy Park,” the project should be about partial restoration of the original wet ands. The acquired land is large enough to become the prototype of what can be achieved in restoration, providing at the same time a recreational/educational area for Malibu residents and visitors. One could envision the revival of ponds which will attract numerous birds, with boardwalks and viewing stations to discover the newly emerging wildlife. I do not see that in the actual design.
I may not be as vocal as Bob Purvey, but I certainly share his concerns about development, inappropriate waster water treatment facilities and a total disregard of community feelings on the part of some members of the City Council. The shopping monstrosity at the corner of Cross-Creek road is a blatant example. Facilitating the establishment of another lumber yard would be more useful to the citizens of Malibu, than a huge bunker built to accommodate big name fashion retailers, selling at exorbitant prices. I would imagine that the very rich and sophisticated would rather shop on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. The purpose, of course .is to bring money to the city, but such monies will come from a selected number of tourists during a limited season.
Has the city considered how a well designed park restoring historic landscapes could also bring funds from the population of large, middle class families and their children with wide open eyes, away from the confines of urban areas? Bob Purvey may have his antics, and we all do, but he should be credited for trying to save whatever is left of our rural community, and preserve a rapidly dissipating coastal environment. He is in line with the National Parks, The Santa Monica Baykeepers, Heal the Bay, the Malibu Surfrider Association and other legitimate environmental groups. These two letters did not warrant publication. It is good to disagree, but the protagonists in this case could directly vent their anger at Bob Purvey who maintains a personal website. This pettifogery is ridiculous.
Dr. Martine Jozan Work