It appears there is a new “F” word in the language of Californians, especially here on the Central Coast. The proponents of Measure P have used it so much most people probably believe “fracking” has anything to do with this ballot initiative. It does not, as there is no fracking in Santa Barbara County. But they keep saying it.
It actually reminds me of the people who repeatedly held up signs that said “No New Taxes” in regards to Measure M, about a ballot measure that had nothing to do with taxes. But it was clever advertising, I’ll give them that, because they know if you say something enough times, people will believe it.
Speaking of county supervisors, I attend board meetings in SLO and Santa Barbara county, and it infuriates me when the chair decides the citizens cannot speak for the usual three minutes. Instead, those who have taken a chunk of time out of their day are given two minutes to be heard. Why is that? Is the board’s time more valuable than ours? Isn’t it the people’s business you’re doing up there? Your last meeting lasted less than three hours … was there somewhere else you all had to be that was more important than listening to your constituents? And the last thing I want to do is listen to the opposing side, but you know what? It’s their right to speak for three minutes, too. And to add insult to injury, the supervisors themselves go on endlessly (especially during campaign season), making little sense and taking up precious time that the general public could be using.
I am opposed to Measure P. As a native Santa Marian whose family has been in business here for more than 60 years, I’m asking the voters of this county to get informed on this issue and get involved. It’s a mistake this county, our businesses, and our families cannot afford.
This article appears in Aug 21-28, 2014.