Opinion

Every day that goes by with minimum economic progress and uncoordinated actions among local business interests highlights the critical need for an economic steering committee - comprised of leaders from the private sector - which works with local governments and potential developers to create prosperity.

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It is simply inexcusable and reflective of a larger problem: The federal government has dragged its feet in responding to the zebra mussel infestation of San Justo Reservoir and, in the meantime, has put a freeze on the recreational spot's economic potential in the community.

“Reservoir closure in Year No. 4...” was the headline in the Hollister Free Lance. An invasion of zebra mussels forced the closure of San Justo Reservoir, a popular local recreation area, in early 2008. It will remain closed until at least next fall while the state and federal governments do an environmental review of the plan to remove those pests. If the review of takes another couple of years and dump trucks full of money, it’s no problem – for them. While we’re waiting, we’ll have time to ponder Governor Brown’s proposal to exempt the bullet train from the annoying and expensive environmental lawsuits the rest of us have to suffer. It took almost 300 years for America to come full circle. We thought we rid ourselves of royalty during the American Revolution – but it seems we just traded King George for King Government.