Carl Iverson, Capistrano Beach
I am of the opinion that the proposed entry structure to be located at the north entrance of the Lantern District is in need of additional thought and consideration.
One of the questions that I have to ask is, Why the rush?
Considering the amount of work that must be accomplished through the development of the Lantern District, this entry element does not to be designed and built now.
It appears to be an attempt to define the character of a neighborhood before the character actually develops. In spite of the visions that the city might have for the project, the Lantern District is a developer funded and designed project that will evolve and develop its character over time.
Another question that I have is why has there been such limited public input into the design of this element?
This is something that the public should at least be made aware of and I mean in a manner more than the minimum legal notification that just covers the city. Also, a seemingly secretive “ad-hoc committee” was formed to establish the design and hire the consultants, with no open bid process and no community input.
As for a personal comment, I would like to say that the design as accepted is both unattractive and something that will be confusing for non-locals entering town. Dana Point will have to live with this for decades to come. The quality of a community relates directly to the care and concern of its citizens. And only public input will have an effect on those that make decisions for us.
Please take the time to pause and rethink, Dana Point deserves better.
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