Bolsa Chica Buy Warrants Support
* In “City to Seek Funds for Bolsa Chica” (March 7), The Times reported that the Huntington Beach City Council voted 4 to 3 to start negotiations with the developer (Hearthside Homes/Koll) for the purchase of Bolsa Chica.
Hearthside Homes suggested it would be willing to sell at a profit for their shareholders. Assemblyman Tom Harman has proposed AB 1256, which would set aside $25 million for the purchase, and for the first time in 30 years, there’s money to complete the purchase. The surplus that is budgeted already is earmarked for open space and parks.
The other missing element in the equation is local support. The community has to show support with our own money before we can get the federal, state or foundation funds. The Bolsa Chica Land Trust is starting a pledge drive. Our motto, like the Red Cross’, is “Think what you can afford and double it.” Let’s do it.
EILEEN MURPHY
Huntington Beach
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* The clearing after the rainy weather of late put me in the mood for a nice springtime walk on the Bolsa Chica open space to see wildflowers bloom and the ocean view on ground not covered with cement. This might be a dream come true if Huntington Beach Mayor Pam Julien Houchen has her wish to save all of Bolsa Chica for the entire Orange County region. It is great that she recognizes the need for open space for all of us living in this densely populated coastal place.
CHRIS HEGGE
Laguna Beach