Wal-Mart proponents launch campaign

Andrew Wainer

HUNTINGTON BEACH -- Save Our Schools this week launched its campaign to

defeat Measure J, which if approved by voters will prevent Wal-Mart from

leasing the Ocean View School District’s closed Crest View school site.

Tracy Pellman, a co-chair of the group, said about 50 people attended a

kickoff event at the Waterfront Hilton Beach Resort.

Pellman said the group plans to walk precincts, call voters, and send out

fliers urging residents to vote against the measure.

The group also is asking for community donations, and Pellman said

Wal-Mart is expected to contribute to the campaign, although she did not

specify an amount.

Wal-Mart spokeswoman Cynthia Lynn said the corporation would not disclose

how much they have contributed. She added that the amount of the

contribution would be available to the public when campaign funding

statements are made available in January.

Measure J was put on the ballot by a group of residents who oppose the

Wal-Mart development because they say it would increase traffic and noise

in the area.

Wal-Mart supporters say the lease would give the district and the city a

much-needed injection of funds.