Letters to the Editor: Development plan would allow access of fenced-off ranch

Letter writer Rob Macfarlane from Newport Beach brought up some very interesting and pertinent information relating to the big question of what is to be done, if anything, with Banning Ranch (“Ruling will delay Banning Ranch restoration,” April 8). As it stands now, the total acreage is completely fenced off with absolutely no entry. I live within walking distance of Banning Ranch and frequently visit Sunset Ridge Park, which abuts the ranch, but due to the complete enclosure of the ranch, no hiking or just plain curiosity could be permitted. But with a plan of development and eventual cleanup of the bad parts, a whole new neighborhood can be created that can be enjoyed by the public and still retain some of the wildlife and open areas.

Bill Spitalnick

Newport Beach

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Lawsuit letter puzzles me

I was surprised to see Bob McCaffrey’s puzzling letter to the Forum last week, where he credits the current council for cutting monetary losses in connection with my public records lawsuit against the city (“Legal settlement costly to Newport taxpayers,” April 8). This is indeed interesting. I asked McCaffrey and certain Team Newport council members for help a long time ago, and they blew me off and allowed the city to keep spending taxpayer money with the city’s expensive outside law firm. While campaigning for office, these council members promised to provide much-needed fiscal oversight and to stop excessive spending in Newport Beach. We need to remember this at election time.

Kent Moore

Corona del Mar

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