Protecting Our Farmland

By Tony M. Ferrara

It's one thing to say you support the preservation of our farmland, it's quite another to support it with a vote.

Arroyo Grande has some of the finest soils in the world. It is irreplaceable. Until recently, the City held fast to rigid policies restricting the development of prime farmland. However, during the recent City General Plan Update, our Agriculture and Open Space Element was weakened by a 3-2 vote of the City Council. This led to the now controversial Citizens' Referendum. Council member Dickens and I fought hard to preserve a 5-acre prime agricultural parcel designated as a buffer zone.

We were unsuccessful. Mayor Lady, Council Member Lubin (my opponent), and Mayor Pro Tem Runels, supported homes being built on this parcel.

Let me make my position very clear on this matter. If elected, I will do whatever I can to strengthen our agricultural policies and restore a sense of security for the farm families in the City who depend on agriculture for their livelihood. I will not support any residential or commercial development on prime agricultural soils. It is not open for debate or deal making. It is how I feel and how I will vote.