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