Just imagine what life in the South Valley would be like if
developers had the incentive to approach obscure native Indian
tribes to finance a $300 million college campus for the benefit of
future generations rather than peddling get-rich-quick schemes
based on vices such as gambling casinos.
Dear Editor,
Just imagine what life in the South Valley would be like if developers had the incentive to approach obscure native Indian tribes to finance a $300 million college campus for the benefit of future generations rather than peddling get-rich-quick schemes based on vices such as gambling casinos.
The irony is that the state’s lottery, gambling that was legalized some 20 years ago, already supports schools and yet education is still underfunded. If we are to envision 1,500 to 3,000 new service jobs, it would be best if these jobs supported the administration of a higher education institution. Wouldn’t we be better served by lobbying for support of the new Gavilan College campus or the advent of a California State University, Hollister?
Community leaders are wise to weigh the pros and cons in a judicious manner. And I agree that Vision San Benito is the best vehicle with which to build community consensus on the matter. We, as a community, need to effectively study this controversial proposal and clearly articulate to Santa Clara County, the State of California and the U.S. Government the anticipated impacts on our environment, economy and social fabric.
Clearly, Hollister and San Benito County are in a position to understand the impacts of poorly planned development on an underdeveloped infrastructure (roads and water/wastewater systems). Our neighbors and eminent government agencies need to be made aware of San Benito County’s fiscal and environmental disposition accordingly.
Mike Smith, Hollister
