Voters May Have Sent Messages to Powers That Be

Re Measure Y in the city of Orange: A majority of voters in the city of Orange voted June 2 to tax themselves to provide for open space, parkland and a natural creek. The idea of having more usable open space was so compelling that even in an era of severe unemployment, fiscal uncertainty and declining property values, pressure on the quality of life directed them to take a stand for the future. But the vote of 54.3% was not enough. Because of the nature of the ballot question, a vote of 67% was necessary to pass Measure Y.

If elected officials look carefully at the vote, they will see a message. The citizens are willing. Let us hope that this 55% majority vote is seen in a positive light by the powers that be. The city had quietly backed away from the original $25-million price tag for the measure. At their new total, around $15 million, a carefully crafted initiative in November has a real chance of passing at 67%. We will have to see whether the message was received.

There are many ways the property owner, the William Lyon Co., and the citizens of Orange can work together to find a middle ground solution to this desire to preserve and enhance Santiago Creek. Let us work together in a public forum to seek low-cost, doable, reasonable solutions to the need for open space and recreation opportunities in central Orange County.

LAUREN FICARO, Orange