As a 45-year resident of Lakeport, I add my voice to the concerns of Karen Mackey and others regarding the rezoning of the old Dutch Harbor and Natural High School properties from open space to residential/resort classification. This seems to indicate that a tentative decision has been made to sell this lake view and also public property for private development.
As our population (city and county) continues to grow, so will our need for open space. This property is our last chance to fulfill that need.
We advertise our area as a resort destination, yet we have inadequate open space with lake views, our greatest asset. We have no bike paths, incomplete bike lanes, walking trails are non existent, and landscaping in our parks and city parking lots are sparse.
Lake County has not developed any parks on the west shore. All the lake shore property appears to be private and developed. Only those fortunate enough to own lake side property have ready access to the lake. This fact gives more urgency to preserving our public property for open space and future park development for all our residents and guests.
If developers are interested in building additional residences or resorts they should look to private property. Willow Point is perfect for a time share, first class hotel, etc. The Lakeshore property East of the Lange Street Elementary School is another possibility. Please do not allow dollar signs to cloud our vision. We need our open space.
Ann Blue
Lakeport
