League to review stance on conservation
Urban planning experts, economist to speak at forum. The public is invited.

The League of Women Voters of Ventura County will sponsor a forum on land-use planning from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thurs., May 17 at the Wedgewood Banquet Center, 5880 Olivas Park Drive in Ventura.

Panelists include experts in urban planning and development from the Public Policy Institute of California, Dr. Michael Teitz, and Leonard Gilroy from the Reason Institute along with UC Santa Barbara economist Bill Watkins and Ventura County Supervisor Steve Bennett.

The forum is as part of the league's review of its position on planning, conservation and recreation, and will also address adequate housing for county residents.

In addition to exploring the background of the county growth limitations in effect, possible questions the panel may consider include:

+The impacts of limiting land for development and higher planning costs on housing

+The short- and long-term effects of reduced development on local government finances

+The consequences of providing insufficient housing of all levels for residents

+How other communities have overcome resistance by residents to infill projects

+Proven means of providing affordable housing

The forum will include a buffet lunch and a questionand-answer period.

RSVP for program and lunch ($20) at (805) 379-2768 by Sat., May 12. For more information, call Ruth Hibbard at (805) 377-0888 or Pam Pecarich at (805) 797-4757.