The last line of the Vision Statement from the City of Malibu’s General Plan is, “The people of Malibu are a responsible custodian of the area’s natural resources for present and future generations.”
Measure R is an example of the residents of Malibu putting down the plow and wading into the arena of City Government to get involved with what is happening to our unique seaside town. Many residents feel that something is clearly not right with where things are headed and Measure R is a tool that enables us “responsible custodians” to get involved and to have a say in some of the change coming our way. As one longtime resident said at a recent City Council Meeting: we’re not saving Malibu, we’re saving what’s left of Malibu. It is all of our responsibility, as the Vision Statement says, so let’s get involved and learn more.
Arrayed against Measure R are individuals and institutions that, put simply, do not want public input on these developments over 20,000 square feet. That’s it. They do not want you, responsible custodians of Malibu, in the approval process for these large developments. You will hear from them that certain medical or commercial changes that would be good for the town will never be able to happen. That is not true. If it is good for the town and if the residents recognize it as something that would be good, it will likely be approved. If not seen to be beneficial or in keeping with the character of the town, it won’t. It is completely understandable that those whose livelihood thrives on increased commercialization or real estate development might be opposed to something that would slow that process down. Fair enough. Let them speak clearly and honestly about why they oppose Measure R. On one end you have those that want PCH to be the next Rodeo Drive and those who do not. Measure R gives them both the opportunity to get involved.
To all “responsible custodians” of Malibu: time to get engaged and involved. This is small town where your involvement does make a difference.
Rick Mullen