Few would argue that Pulte Homes/Del Webb would not ultimately
produce the top-quality development in San Benito County they
propose. Even fewer would discourage construction of a development
for such a demographically attractive age group
– 55 and older – that contributes to tax coffers and enriches
the community socially and economically.
Few would argue that Pulte Homes/Del Webb would not ultimately produce the top-quality development in San Benito County they propose. Even fewer would discourage construction of a development for such a demographically attractive age group – 55 and older – that contributes to tax coffers and enriches the community socially and economically.
At face value, the benefits appear to far outweigh negative aspects associated with any project of this magnitude.
But we can’t support any development that uses the ballot box in order to gain a significant political and public relations momentum, rather than first following the prescribed local, state and federal process. Simply put, we have serious reservations about endorsing this type of approval-by-initiative-before-process approach.
If Measure S fails we hope Pulte Homes/Del Webb does not pull up stakes and leave town, but there are too many unanswered questions on the table and the vote is just more than two weeks away. More importantly, if Measure S passes – and Pulte Homes/Del Webb decides to walk for whatever reason – the General Plan remains amended, and the 1,365 acres in question retain the mixed-use residential designation.
Also troubling is the fact that only voters residing in the city limits of Hollister will decide the fate of a major proposal that will dramatically affect all of San Benito County. Assuming a modest 35 percent turnout, Measure S could be decided by what would amount to a super minority.
We do not fear growth; far from it. This community cannot afford a not-in-my-backyard approach to development if we are to survive and flourish. Nor do we agree the measure should be opposed because of its proximity to the airport. While we admire those who dream that a burst of commercial and private aircraft will one day invade Hollister, there is nothing unique about the facility, and until there is business and industrial development to support such traffic, it will be business as usual.
Hollister and all of San Benito County desperately need responsible growth in order to support a unique quality of life, and the recently adopted General Plan recognizes that challenge. The plan is fluid and can be amended to allow for accelerated growth. But rolling the dice and amending the plan for Measure S dilutes the process. We can’t afford the gamble.
