Traffic initiative lets voters decide on development

In response to the letter titled "Traffic initiative is about competition in the business world, not gridlock"in the Feb. 28 T.O. Acorn, I must say that Nino DeFranco and myself do not represent any business, including Lumber City/Do-it Center.

We represent those concerned residents who are fed up with irresponsible project approvals by our city officials, which cause negative impacts to our community. Our quest started with opposition to the proposed Home Depot site on Hampshire Road.

This unsuitable project for a "neighborhood shopping center zone" will have devastating impacts on our neighborhood, including unbearable traffic and environmental issues.

As concerned neighbors, we voiced our opposition to the plan before even Do-it Center appeared in the picture. We were fortunate that we found common interests with some community businesses in opposing the plan for a second Home Depot in our city.

I don't know who you represent, but it sounds like you have personal interests at stake.

You don't accuse the City Council members of representing businesses or special interests that financially support them for reelection. You probably don't because you're on their side.

If it weren't for cooperation and support from our business community, we wouldn't be able to have our concerns heard. This is a community effort, where residents and businesses work together to create a better community for all.

The initiative will allow the intelligent residents of Thousand Oaks to decide on the projects that will cause traffic congestion on our roads and intersections.

The real winners of the initiative will be the residents of this city who will determine the quality of life in their community. It's time that people decide whether they want another San Fernando Valley or preserve the quality of life we all enjoy.

The initiative may help Doit Center, which is also a business member of this community, to stop Home Depot from opening another warehouse in our residential neighborhood in this case, but as residents we'll be able to decide for the future of our city. Mojtaba Sedighi Westlake Village