We must stop Merriam Mountains project

The Merriam Mountains project threatens to set a dangerous precedent in San Diego.

After nearly a decade of controversy, the project will return to the County Board of Supervisors for a final vote on March 24.

If approved, the 2,700-unit Merriam Mountains will destroy a predominantly rural and agricultural area of North San Diego. The project will add more than 35,000 daily trips to our roads and use more than one million gallons of water per day at a time when we are being mandated to reduce water consumption. Yet, when Supervisor Horn, a vocal supporter of the project, recently met with farmers at the San Diego County Farm Bureau to discuss zoning changes, he probably failed to mention the additional 12 projects being planned along I-15 north of SR-78. If developed, these projects would total approximately 9,193 dwelling units with 30,000 people. That’s a big increase in water demand that’s likely to impact existing residents and local agricultural land users. Additionally, the Deer Springs Fire Protection District has twice rejected the project’s fire protection plans because they severely compromise the region’s safety, and several planning and sponsor groups are opposed to the project.

We must stop this project!

Please attend the County Supervisors hearing on March 24 and speak in opposition to the project and/or write a letter to the board asking them to reject Merriam Mountains once and for all.

Don’t allow Merriam Mountains to pave the road for more poor planning and massive development in the county.

Marlene Beard

Escondido