Weighing In on the El Toro Land-Use Debate

It is now time that Orange County recognize the direction of the El Toro Airport issue and take a fresh look at the entire picture. The savings to us all, socially and economically, will someday dwarf the divisiveness that is swelling in out midst.

The societal problem with El Toro is very simple. The site is in the middle of a vast urban development and the people there do not want an airport. The opposition may grow when, due to the prevailing winds and the LAX approach, cities of North Orange County, including Villa Park, Orange, Santa Ana and Newport Beach, realize they may be the recipients of an obvious looping ocean-bound departure route.

The economic problem with El Toro is also simple. Because so many people do not want the airport, they will financially drain the county in the form of lawsuits and restitution. The airport itself will cost a bundle and the supporting infrastructure to alleviate transportation, safety and pollution concerns could be exorbitant. The price tag will be huge and there never has been established a need for a new airport to guarantee actual revenues.

If one is needed, the county should consider what progressive metropolitan areas are doing. That is to locate new airports away from the population centers and at the perimeter of urban development connected with high-speed transit systems.

The numbers are just too big to handle. What responsible government, anywhere, would entertain such a huge project with a win-lose decision of this magnitude? A win-lose decision would leave a negativism at home and in the workplace that will forever undermine our collective attitudes. If the Orange County Board of Supervisors is really determined to be progressive, it best be seeking win-win solutions for the people, for it is that socioeconomic positivism that will fuel our growth into the next century.

BILL ROLFING

South Laguna

* Supervisor Tom Wilson is South County’s District 5 voice on the Board of Supervisors. As such, he should make it clear that an international airport at El Toro is unwanted, unnecessary and undesirable as stated by a huge majority of District 5 voters.

Supervisor Wilson, who I am sure is opposed to the airport, should stand unequivocally against the forces that would favor reuse harmful to the quality of life in South County. Tom Wilson should not try to mollify his pro-airport colleagues on the board and realize his political future rests with his constituents.

HERBERT FRANKLIN

Laguna Niguel