Rudeness taints cell tower dispute

Dear Editor:

I read the article “River Club in fighting form” in the July 2 East County Observer recently. My intent in writing this letter is not to inflame either of the parties involved — rather quite the opposite, and I offer my observations below:

• Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion, but it seems that our little community has lost a sense of civility on this issue. The original presentation by Vertex was greeted with downright rudeness and nastiness within minutes of their description of the cell tower, and this has set the tone for this entire process.

• I am not sure if installation of the tower will decrease home values, but I think that some have forgotten that the River Club golf course enhances home worth. If (course owner Mike Pascuzzi) were to decide to close the golf course and let it grow waist-high, I imagine that our home values would plummet. It is hard to make a profit in the golf business, and Mr. Pascuzzi is entitled to run his business as he sees fit. We are fortunate that he is a neighbor rather than a faceless corporation that cares little for the community it serves.

Recently, an explosive device was ignited in Mike’s mailbox. I don’t know if it is related to this controversy, but it seems a bit coincidental.

• Those opposed to the tower have concerns about safety, appearance, etc., and it is their right to express them. Hiring legal council at a cost of $40 to $50 per homeowner seems a bit excessive to me because no official vote has been published to my knowledge.

• I suspect the recent article also has repelled prospective buyers.

There are some serious problems in the world and in this country, and the response to such a tiny issue — considering what else is happening — is so over the top that I have a hard time believing it.

Each party should express its view, for sure, but I would hope that it can be done with respect and good manners in the future.