Those who didn’t watch Santa Paula’s mayoral selection missed a real show. John Procter expected the post, but the majority chose Bob Gonzales. Procter was offended and announced that he considered the action “personal.� He is mistaken in this; he is respected by all members of the council and by this writer.
This decision had nothing to do with personality but everything to do with policy. The council majority — Ray Luna, Gonzales, and Ralph Fernandez — are striving to gradually attain some semblance of balance in our housing mix, while Gabino Aguirre and Procter have been committed to the Cabrillo developer, with its emphasis on low-end housing. That is the crux of the matter.
As usual, Aguirre saw this as just another instance of class and racial bias. He seems oblivious to the fact that those who elected the mayor — and the mayor himself — are all of Hispanic origin. The majority wants what is best for everyone, without regard to race or class. We can all learn from them.
Luna has done an outstanding job as mayor and deserves sincere thanks. Gonzales seems likely to make a great mayor; he deserves everyone’s support and will need it. Let’s wish all five members well and hope they will work together for the benefit of all.
The Cabrillo developer that is now suing us will never concur, but every community needs a balanced housing mix. Without balance, even those who live in low-end units will endure blight, crime and economic stagnation. Without balance, those businesses and industries that we most need will forever pass us by. South Oxnard offers ample evidence.
Santa Paula has a great mix of people and one of the finest physical settings in the world. Let’s respect one another and work for quality.
— Delton Lee Johnson, Santa Paula
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