Change in mind-set needed in West Newport
I think the possible solution to the Fourth of July problem is to
change the perception of the Balboa Peninsula year round (“Fourth of
July craziness on council radar,” Aug. 28). As a resident of the
peninsula, I realize that visitors come here to enjoy the beach, but
this is also a residential neighborhood with a growing number of
homeowners.
In the past, I feel the City Council and the Parks and Recreation
Commission have had more concern for the tourists than for the
taxpaying constituents. If feel the council should change its vision
of the peninsula. Go visit Carmel by the Sea.
Since the population of this area is increasingly older, I think
more outdoor cafes, art galleries, interesting shops and quiet parks
would do a lot to change Newport’s reputation as a place to come and
party and in doing so can help prevent problems like the Fourth of
July.
CATHY WYATT
Balboa Peninsula
I appreciate Mayor Tod Ridgeway’s study session comment to
reemphasize changing the character of the West Newport neighborhood
from a summer rental place to an area where owners live in their
properties year round.
Three things keep this from happening: high revenue from the
rentals, longtime owner capital gains liability and the character of
the neighborhood. Short-term rentals diminish the quality of live and
lead to property devaluation.
I hope that the mayor’s viewpoint regarding West Newport extends
up the peninsula to the Marinapark side where Sutherland Talla has
the inside track to develop the newly named, Regent Newport Beach
Resort Hotel. This, too, would diminish the quality of life in our
area and I believe lead to property devaluation on the peninsula. If
he continues to support the hotel plan, I will be supporting and
voting for Madelene Arakelian in the next election.
DORIS HOPE
Newport Beach
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