My first encounter with the Peninsula Community Planning Board was when a neighbor planned to build a home that would obstruct the view from the Del Monte overlook.
I went to the Projects Subcommittee hearing. I was very impressed that five members spent a fair amount of time trying to work out a compromise. It was apparent that they had spent several hours preparing for the meeting and three hours at the meeting. Later, at several full board meetings, more efforts for compromise were made. Board members devoted quite a bit of effort to preserve a Peninsula site that was treasured by hundreds of locals.
Later, I became a member of the PCPB and learned that membership duties included serving on several subcommittees, attending training, participating in airport meetings, meeting with individuals with complaints and various other time-consuming events.
The bylaws need to be changed so that prospective board members attend three to five board and subcommittee meetings and attend a special meeting to learn how much effort is expected of a board member.
At the last election, most voters came carrying one of two lists of candidates to vote for.
One list contained the name of candidates who were employees of McMillin (Cos.), lawyers or Realtors. That group was elected.
The other list contained names of residents whose motivation was to preserve the things that attracted us to Point Loma in the first place. Things like quality of life, low density, adequate street parking, good views and owner-occupied homes.
I think board representation could be improved by better by-laws and a nominating commitee which could review candidates and present accurate biographies.
This newspaper could perform a valuable public service by publishing the bios.
In summary, members of the PCPB spend a lot of time on their duties, and we, the public, need to be represented by better members than the last elections produced.
The next election is coming up in a few months, so you will soon have an opportunity to nominate candidates. The outcome affects us all. Participate.