The Buzz column, Sept. 21

The Buzz reported in 2006 that a developer was proposing a new housing project on what is currently the Casta del Sol golf course. The proposal seemed off the table, but it’s back. Some residents received a mailer from Sunrise Senior Living on Sept. 22, describing a luxury retirement community and expansive park being proposed on what is now the golf course. There’s no time like the present to push it through. The current city council just loves more housing, more traffic, more congestion and more developer cash in their campaign accounts.

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A speaker at the Sept. 17 council meeting made an amusing comment from the public microphone. First, he mentioned he’s lived in Mission Viejo for 29 years, and he’s not running for city council. After stating his problem – a power outage in his neighborhood on Sept. 3 – he said he waited 12-16 hours before calling anyone. Then, he called city hall to ask why the power was off. He seemed surprised that no one at city hall returned his call and suggested they consider adding voice mail.

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A couple things were aired following the public comment about the power outage. The city manager mentioned a problem that utility companies are having with underground lines and vaults filling with water, causing extended delays in getting the power back on. The speaker also asked what it would take to get city hall’s attention when residents are experiencing an emergency. He got no answer, which emphasizes the blog’s position that residents need to fend for themselves rather than rely on the city in the event of a disaster. At the end of the meeting, the mayor talked about “preparedness.” The blog’s challenge to the city continues: tell everyone about the city’s emergency plan. Announce it in the City Outlook newsletter, even if it means omitting a page or two of Outlook drivel.

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The Sept. 21 issue of Saddleback Valley News contained news on the front page instead of the usual large picture and “human interest” story. Unfortunately, the news item about the city’s Wireless Master Plan wasn’t accurate. For openers, residents’ opposition to the plan was 100 percent. The only public speaker supporting the plan lives in San Clemente and works for a cell phone company. Councilman Frank Ury comes across in the article as being responsive to residents’ demands by suggesting the elimination of some parks from the contract. Residents demanded the elimination of all parks and canceling the contract with ATS as well.

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Council members have indicated to the blog’s publisher they don’t like getting negative reviews. It’s quite easy to avoid being criticized by following a few suggestions: 1) be honest, 2) keep your campaign promises, 3) do your homework and read the packet before coming to the meeting, 4) represent your constituents and not outsiders or the city staff, 5) protect homeowners’ rights and property, and 6) do the right (moral and responsible) thing in the best interest of Mission Viejo residents. One former council member is often mentioned as a good example: the late Norm Murray. Norm was eventually defeated for reelection, probably because he was dedicated to doing the right thing rather than being popular.