I’d like to clarify an error contained in your Sept. 7, “What’s Happening Around Town” column. The American Land Conservancy (ALC) has never had any plans to develop a hotel or condominiums on any portion of the Topanga Canyon property currently owned by LAACO.
ALC is a private, nonprofit organization founded in 1990 to facilitate the preservation of threatened land and water resources throughout the United States. We’ve been interested in the acquisition of LAACO’s Topanga Canyon property for public benefit since our inception, and now we have an option to purchase it. When the transfer is completed, this magnificent property would be turned over to the State of California and be added to Topanga State Park, providing the 10 million residents of the greater Los Angeles area with an unparalleled mountains-to-sea public park.
Contrary to your statement, ALC wants to preserve Topanga Canyon for the enjoyment of current and future generations. This acquisition will link public land at Topanga Beach with Topanga State Park, providing public recreational opportunities as well as allowing for the restoration of the lower creek and its estuary. In addition, by purchasing the property for public use, we will prevent further commercial or residential development on this beautiful segment of the California coast.
Harriet Burgess, President