Measure B didn't play by the rules; it will hurt the city

Recently, I wrote the comprehensive analysis floating around of Measure B, the Do-it Center backed referendum formally called the "Right to vote on traffic congestion initiative." Readers who want to see my report can find the comprehensive analysis at www.westlakerevelations.com.

Of the more than 100 pieces written in the past couple years, this is only the second that had to be an editorial, instead of making the case for each side. The first was our investigation of U.S. Postal Service proposed ZIP code changes, which found that none of the reasons given were true, hence preventing the change for 57,000 addresses.

I've been asked why the Measure B piece is done as an editorial. Two reasons. First, like other media, the Measure B campaign will not return any of many messages, a clear red flag (e.g., someone likely hiding something or cannot defend positions).

We can only base information on their publicly available materials, and they don't address the likely closure of the hospital emergency room, nor annual $1 billion local economic losses.

Second, while it's very clear to most people, including myself, that the voters should be heard on issues, Measure B's approach has far reaching impacts.

Furthermore, while I'm willing to investigate an issue as a citizen, I'm not willing to review 150600 pages of material required to properly prepare to vote on each development needing approval. Are you?

If you are, then you should now read the 4,000+ word Measure B analysis on Westlake Revelations. If you're still interested in voting in support of it after reading that analysis, then at least you've made an educated decision. If you're not taking the time to do that level of research, then in my opinion, you have no business voting in support of Measure B that will fundamentally change how government works and have far reaching negative impacts.
Neil Ticktin
Westlake Revelations
Westlake Village