MCAS, irrigation unit back project

In response to Charles Saltzer's letter to the editor ("Seeds may be sown for MCAS closure," Nov. 9) there is probably nothing that we could say that would convince him that the proposed General Plan Amendment offered by Estancia LLC represents an excellent planning opportunity for Yuma.

However, we should point out that the city staff and MCAS have both approved the proposal. As well, we have visited with Yuma Mesa Irrigation officials and they have expressed no concern that the proposal jeopardizes their water allocation.

The fact that there was no one at the planning and zoning meeting on Oct. 18 from either MCAS or the irrigation district indicates neither had concerns about the proposal. In fact, an MCAS official had testified in favor of the project at the previous P&Z meeting when the proposal was addressed.

Unfortunately, the commissioners could not get comfortable with the encroachment and water issues raised by Saltzer and so, voted against the proposal.

There are hundreds of owners involved in the 3,700 acres encompassing the Estancia project, and none of that land has ever been developed. It has been farmed and created jobs in the community for many years — some not so good. These owners are now looking at alternatives to limited farming options on the Yuma mesa while offering an opportunity to Yuma to direct development away from prime farmland in the valleys.

It would be unfortunate if we ignored the facts here and were allowed to be frightened into tossing this opportunity aside. If Yuma grows, this is the direction it should go. If it does not grow, the Estancia project will never be developed. Most likely, in any event, It will not be developed for many, many years to come.

HOWARD GWYNN
MARK R. SPENCER
Yuma