Editor, The Beacon:
Again in disbelief after reading the remarks of DeLand-area builders, I felt the need to replay those of Michael Woods, an attorney representing an Orlando-based developer, as they were reported in your paper.
Here, Woods reflected on his group’s generosity in planting not one, but three sapling trees in each new homeowner’s yard.
“The reason why we’re doing that is because so much focus has been on clear-cut,” Woods said. “It’s a good effort, and I think that gets to the effort, nature and underlying message we’ve been hearing about … .”
Nature?
So, what you’re telling me, Mike, is that by going in and clear-cutting entire quadrants of DeLand’s old-growth forested areas, totally decimating all the wildlife and unique species that live there, essentially turning giant parcels into bare parking lots of compacted dirt and retention basins, and then planting three sapling trees on each new lot, you’re addressing the concerns of nature?
Why, as citizens of a once-beautiful community, must we put up with this nonsense? We all realize we’re now victims of development. But why has nothing been done to address the method of this development, and encourage more responsible practices?
Why do none of our elected officials realize that they’re allowing our quality of life to be destroyed?
Like many residents, I sit by and watch this irresponsible development happen. I put up with the fabricated excuse by political leaders that their hands are tied, as they, again, unilaterally change zoning regulations in support of more construction.
I even put up with SunRail, knowing it’s for the good of many business owners here in town.
But please don’t imply that I’m a fool. Don’t insult me with some lawyer’s take on nature. Even I have principles.
Joe Balog
DeLand
