Regarding “Bayfront resort/Collision course calls for real leadership” (Editorial, Nov. 18):

The Union-Tribune significantly misrepresents the position and efforts of the Environmental Health Coalition related to the Chula Vista bayfront. As a 20-year member of the EHC board, I know that EHC has spent the past seven years consistently seeking to support development projects that promote environmental protection, provide quality public access, create good jobs and foster regional economic benefits. Our engagement in the environmental review process established by the California Environmental Quality Act is not some back-door strategy – it is the appropriate mechanism for public participation.

Our attempt to establish an independent community foundation is not blackmail, as your editorial states, but rather our attempt to ensure funding both for natural resource protection as the project is developed, and for western Chula Vista residents to address future community impacts without relying on the city or port's general funds. Given the recently disclosed financial woes of the city of Chula Vista, this idea has gone from good to visionary and is supported by many residents. The funding was to be directed for specific uses, to enhance local habitat, improve adjacent neighborhoods, support renewable energy and efficiency projects in Chula Vista, and support affordable housing. None of the funding has ever been intended for EHC.

If the bayfront development is to happen, it will be because all parties worked together and not because of any one individual or because local news media continues to vilify credible interests and community involvement.

DAN McKIRNAN
Chula Vista