I applaud Rick Wallace for his commentary entitled “political shakedown inevitable,” on July 7. I have lived in Malibu for some time and often have conversations with residents here about the subjects that Mr. Wallace mentions in his article. He is right that there is absolute frustration and disdain from many “silent” residents concerning the way in which business is conducted in Malibu. Much like the U.S. government, our city has been hijacked by zealots who do not represent the mainstream but are omnipresent and active.
What has this resulted in? There is more traffic and congestion in Malibu than ever. The Perenchios (Malibu Bay Company) have started to divest their property holdings since they have not been able to fairly develop their land. They are selling their properties to people who have almost unlimited resources and no real attachment to Malibu. This will result in a worse commercial development situation over time.
Property and violent crime are increasing. There were recently a murder and aggravated assault here related to transients either living or passing though the community.
The desire that many zealots have to stop building is not working or helping us. Have any of you ever seen more large homes built than at this point in time? Yet to get a permit to add a bedroom or something simple to one’s own home is not worth the time. This creates safety issues due to non-permitted remodeling, lowers the tax collections, and stifles the local economy since less home improvement takes place.
There is little infrastructure and few amenities for the many families that have now moved to Malibu. This is true even though the demographic here has changed dramatically to a more family oriented environment.
The large amounts of trash at the beaches and shopping areas are worsening. This should be dealt with in a more effective manner by the city and landowners. The state government and courts are so tired of the shenanigans from the city and wealthy residents here that they are taking it out on us in the form of ridiculous land use plans.
Everyone should express their views on these issues to the City Council and mayor. Let’s not allow this beautiful city that we all love to be mired in mediocrity.
Matt Borenzweig