The petition drive makes sense

How amusing it is to see Jere Robings in support of more government regulations ("Petition a scam on T.O. citizens," Nov. 29 Thousand Oaks Acorn).

The petition in question, as Jere states, would "limit the city's control of the planning process."

Is this the same Jere who for many years, through the Ventura County Taxpayer's Association, has advocated lower taxes and less government regulation? Now, Jere, it appears that you're saying you like government regulation? Sorry, but you can't have it both ways. You either want less government and lower taxes, or you don't. Which is it?

The petition currently being circulated will allow citizens the opportunity to vote on the traffic congestion problem in our city. This is an issue central to the quality of life in our community. In keeping with our democratic values, there should be a fair hearing on this matter, and it should be put to a vote. So this can happen, I urge you to sign the petition.

It is true that its sponsors have an interest in getting the measure enacted into law. I've heard them speak, and their motivation is simply to limit the growing of traffic congestion in our community.

All too often we've seen the T.O. Planning Commission buckle to the pro-development special interests and approve plans that add more traffic congestion. This special interest is less concerned about our quality of life and primarily concerned about providing us with more places to shop. This petition presents a well-reasoned approach to limiting the influence of this powerful special interest.

Please help to put this matter to a vote by signing the petition. John J. Griffin Thousand Oaks

The drive was apparently successful. The petitions have already been turned in and a story will run in next week's edition.