I’m writing in response to a letter to the editor (“Aghast at behavior of governmental body,” Jan. 3 edition, page 6).
Mr. [Howard] Jones commented on the rude behavior of members of the Peninsula Community Planning Board. I have noticed similar behavior at this and other quasi-government boards.
The underlying problem is that most of the community does not care about organized activity that affects their community. It is much easier to let other people do the work and spend free time on entertainment and other personal activities.
Some people feel they are contributing to their community by tossing money at so-called charitable causes. There, too, it is left up to someone else to decide how the money is used.
Based on Mr. Jones’ comments, the members of the planning board apparently do not take their roles very seriously. Why should they if the community at large does not? At least Mr. Jones takes the time to check it out and tell others what he sees. I hope a process badly in need of repair does not drive him away. He and others should attend and express their opinions.
Whether the city of San Diego takes the board and its activities seriously depends on how members conduct themselves, which, in turn, depends on suport from the local community.