Posted by
Rebecca on Thursday, November 02, 2006 3:24:07 AM
Monday Night October 30, 2006 was our packed out Townhall Meeting to disclose what was known about the proposed "Power Center" and NFL Stadium. (My house would be taken for a parking lot!) The panelists were trying their best to just present information and remain unbiased. Considering that several are apt to lose homes or businesses and the emotional state of the residents in attendance, they did a good job.
Councilmen were allowed to speak. They kept saying that this was only a proposal. The center would bring jobs, more homes, more city revenues....
Lynwood is one of the last communities where you can buy a house for under $500,000. Many residents bought in before the Southern California boom, purchasing below $200,000. They enjoy low property tax rates in houses that are well built and sit on large lots. These residents love their homes and have worked hard to get them. For many if their home is taken, they would not be able to buy again because of the higher mortgage and property taxes.
During the question and comment section of the evening, emotions understandably ran high. The residents are angry and angry with four of their City Councilmen. (City Councilwoman, Maria Santillan, must abstain from voting in this matter because she has a conflict of interest since she lives in the development zone.) They feel they have been deceived by those in office that are to protect their interest.
As I was standing in line, James Andion walked by. I stopped him and introduced myself. He asked if he could speak before me. He spoke in both English and Spanish telling the people he was their candidate for the 39th District. He told them about Kelo and Yes on Proposition 90 would not allow their homes to be taken under eminent domain.
I spoke and addressed questions to the panelists about Kelo v. New London. They were unaware of the Supreme Court precedent. I read the quote from Sandra Day O'Connor cited in a previous post.
I raised questions on the incorporation of the developer. The developer was not listed with the Secretary of State of California. I located items in Nevada and Georgia. The panel alluded to the incorporation being in Nevada. I commented that being incorporated in Nevada easy and easier to hide behind the corporate veil of disclosing data, even to the Federal Government.