Recent articles and editorials regarding the failure of the Paraiso retail center in Dos Vientos are missing the real story.

Why did the ill-conceived Paraiso development fail and who was responsible? Was it the fault of the developer or was it the Thousand Oaks City Council or both? Conveniently, the developer blames the economy and poor community support while the city has been silent.

The citizens of Thousand Oaks deserve answers because an even bigger project, the redevelopment of T.O. Boulevard, is being rammed through by many of the same players, including Councilmember Andy Fox and his developer buddies.

If the same mistakes are made, then the citizens of T.O. could be stuck with a semivacant crimeridden multiuse development project while the property owners, many T.O. good ol’ boys, walk away with millions after they sell out to developers and investors. Don’t think it couldn’t happen, especially in these tough times when empty storefrontand vacant properties are everywhere. The city should demand legally enforceable assurancesincluding long-term security bonds, that any new developmenwill not only be viable but wilnot cost the city and its residentanything under all possible outcomes ever. Will our pro-developmencouncil do what’s right? I’m skeptical. Have you taken thcity’s slanted Community Attitude Survey? It seems designed to provide cover for politicianto approve another untested development proposal.

To our City Council majority it’s all about growth and revenuat any cost.

Before T.O. Boulevard is “redeveloped” let’s demand answerregarding Paraiso.
John Fonti
Newbury Park