Bill Worthington
Vice President of Property Development
San Francisco YMCA
631 Howard Street, Suite 500
San Francisco, CA 94105
Dear Mr. Worthington:
I read today that many local folks are unhappy about your plans to cut down trees over approximately 350 acres in San Mateo County. I believe that you may indeed be acting genuinely in the interest of public safety, rather than for economic gain as you have been accused. However, these days in California the word “logging” understandably triggers sirens for environmentalists.
You are apparently working to comply with regulations of the Departments of Forestry and Fish & Game. I am writing to encourage you, however, to make the extra effort to consult neutral environmental groups to gauge the impact of whatever action you plan to take. Unfortunately, even if you are not financially motivated, state and federal agencies that are charged with stewardship of our natural resources often have businesses’ interests in mind (or pocket) before preservation. I hope you can reach some compromise that will be environmentally sound and still ensure safe enjoyment for your visitors.
Truly,
Liz Mann
