Published September 1st, 2010
Letters to the Editor
Editor:

I would like to thank a very nice young woman who very graciously helped me when I fell at the CVS parking lot at Rheem on Aug. 9th. I was remiss in not asking her name and would like her to know that I appreciate her concern. I was not seriously hurt, just bruised and embarrassed. It is nice to know that there are still people who would stop and assist a total stranger and I hope others will do the same.

Sincerely,
Nita Mossman
Moraga

Editor:

The dictator, Oliver Cromwell, told the Rump Parliament of England in 1653: "You have been sat here for too long for any good you have been doing. Cromwell added: "Depart and let us have done with you."
Cromwell's words apply to the incumbents on the current Orinda City Council.
The council needs change. Dr. Scott Zeller, a candidate for the council, promises to give the city a fresh perspective. He also supports Orinda's excellent schools.
Dr. Zeller wants to preserve the semi-rural and village-like character of Orinda's current downtown. Orinda's Planning Commission is seriously considering a scheme for constructing high-rise buildings, luxury apartments, and a hotel. Any final decision on downtown's appearance must be made by the City Council.
Orinda is not the place to turn downtown into another Walnut Creek or Manhattan. Two months ago, I wrote traditional letters -- using stamps and envelopes -- to all incumbents on the City Council, asking each member what he or she thinks of redevelopment for downtown. To date (Aug. 20), no city council member has replied.
In 2009, Orinda sold $750,000 worth of commercial bonds with the CIT company, obtaining only $498,000 -- or 66 cents on the dollar. Orinda, which needs money for road repair, cannot afford such financial debacles.
Also, Orinda needs to be more careful about taxes and fees. Since 2008, garbage pick-up fees are up 30 percent. The library tax went up 44 percent.
It's time for a change in Orinda. Please vote for Dr. Zeller in November.

Richard S. Colman
Orinda

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