Ken Larsen's web site - A Laguna Beach development story 

 

One of my gym buddies (Stan Munsat) told me that 50 years ago he was an activist in Laguna Beach, California.  He and other activists formed a CHALT-like group and successfully  defeated a plan by developers to build an array of tall buildings right on the beach.

 

Developers then began sponsoring candidates to run for town council and for positions on various boards.  They succeeded.  Then, they re-teed their tall buildings plan.  This time their buildings were approved and got built.

 

Lesson learned:  Developers can be like a cancer.  Once they invade an area, they have a rapacious desire to spread.  Residents must constantly be vigilant.  Any lapse in attention or a rise in apathy can ruin a town.