Dear Editor,
I’d like to start this letter by congratulating our three supervisors who voted against the hillside ordinance. In my opinion you sided with the majority who were against it in all the meetings that I attended. Four times this ordinance was denied for lack of public support. I feel it has been nothing but a waste of taxpayers’ money.
In my opinion, supervisors and planning commissioners have the power, without this, to deny any project that isn’t fit or is done in bad taste. We have to have plans, but in a way to be fair. What this ordinance would do is cause more paperwork and cost for the ones involved. We own property with steep hills, but I never thought to build on those sites. The idea of restricting in the flats and restricting on the hillsides is confusing. You make us believe that the few in charge don’t like to see anyone build a house, period.
It’s a good thing boards are made with uneven numbers so the majority takes control. I am not bitter against the ones who vote in favor of this ordinance. They have the right to their opinion, but in this case I feel there are better things to solve. Ten acres of range land without a house, and the tax may be $100 to the county. With a fair house on it, today the taxes may be $6,000 or $7,000, depending how you feel in improving our economy.
I’d like to congratulate our board of supervisors for a good year in keeping our county in peace. This also goes to county administrators, department heads and all employees who believe in getting the job done without abusing the taxpayers. I worked for 30 years as a public employee and I cannot recall any day where I failed to do my job or abused the taxpayers’ money. I feel in all jobs the work is there if you have any pride. Nobody has to over do it, but believe me, being occupied is healthier than dragging your tail.
To all the people in San Benito County I wish you a very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous new year.
God bless San Benito County and all of us. This is only my opinion.
Amadeu Lima, Hollister
