Editor,
Recently read an article suggesting readers investigate what groups are backing candidates. So I did. Village Laguna (VL) has had three IRS classifications – the last two were political action committee and a mutual benefit corporation non profit, which is typical for condominium/townhome association. Misleading? Their mission, etc. changes with the wind. Not on front page, but they do support political candidates as they are paying for many components of Verna’s campaign, flyers, signage, etc.
The flyers say that Verna does not authorize or has paid for the flyers. But who paid for link to Verna’s website and other “underground” expenses. Laura Parisi is also getting support. Is she Village Laguna too? Verna is/has been a loyal follower of Ann Christoph/VL and has her photos in several places on website. Verna and Ann only served one term of office in city council. Verna promises to vote for issues in support of those who vote for her; thus forget the rest of us in Laguna.
VL members sit on all civic committees, often chaired by their members. Is that fair? Just recently city council/homeowners learned that 150 old homes in Laguna were photographed and photos submitted to Heritage Committee for inclusion in a list of such homes without permission of several homeowners. Many homes did not meet the criteria for inclusion. Now property owners find themselves hogtied and trying to get out of this designation.
This is also true of heritage trees. So, VL members interceded in property rights, what else, is that fair? Ride the empty bicycle lanes lately?
If Verna wins, anticipate more of the above/same lack of transparency. A village entrance designed by their qualified members, i.e. Ann Christoph, landscape architect; think the high school landscape fiasco. Add nepotism to the list. We will see more dead/dying trees with drought, but they will be saved by VL approved arborists paid by? More eucalyptus, city tree, to be planted especially on hillsides to block views, increase fire and safety hazards to homeowners as well as visitors. Homes with panoramic ocean/hillside views – no views. Toni Iseman said recently – get used to it. Parking will be interesting – think parking at the 405 and 133 junction as the central parking location. Glenneyre’s dark shadows from minimal lighting will remain unsafe but VL will get rid of nuclear waste in San Onofre. Like airplane noise? Promise?
Ganka Brown, Laguna Beach
