Coast needs protection despite the housing crisis

I was grateful to read the article by CalMatters in the Marin IJ (“California pro-housing bills clash with coastal protections — again,” March 26). It is important to inform residents of state Sen. Scott Wiener's challenge to California's Proposition 20 (enacted in 1972) and the Coastal Act of 1976.

I worked with the Coastal Alliance nonprofit to pass

Prop. 20. As mayor of Fairfax, I became the first appointed member of the California Coastal Commission. Reappointed following the approval of the Coastal Act, I served through 1981.

I had recommended California Attorney General Evelle J. Younger's environmental unit as counsel. It defended the commission through 1981. It prevailed in 94% of cases upholding the Coastal Act — the highest win-loss ratio of any public or private law firm in the United States.

During the campaign, a “Dennis the Menace” cartoon addressed the topic. Dennis, with his swimsuit and beach towel, walked down a street lined with high-rise buildings asking, “Where's the beach?”

The stated purpose of Proposition 20 is to “preserve, protect and restore the California Coast.” The Coastal Act cites several general provisions. One states that the California coastal zone is a distinct and valuable natural resource of vital and enduring interest to all the people. It exists as a delicately balanced ecosystem. The permanent protection of the state's natural and scenic resources is a paramount concern to present and future residents.

Legislators who oppose the basics of Proposition 20 and the Coastal Act have worked to overturn the purpose and intent. Wiener leads that effort.

The California Coastal Commission is the “thin green line” serving to preserve, protect and restore the coast. Don't let Wiener destroy 52 years of coastal protections.