In 1954 Lakewood heard the same negative issues addressed on why they could not become a successful city, but look what has happened.
The recent passing of John Todd, long time Lakewood attorney and father of the contract city commonly referred to as "the Lakewood Plan," reminds me of the cyclic nature of history. Many of the arguments I've seen against the formation of the City of Rossmoor are included in the obituary of Mr. Todd regarding the opposition in 1954 to the formation of the City of Lakewood.
The California Contract Cities Association website (http://www.contractcities.org/) lists a history of these same allegations, but the list of these cities in California tells a different story. Contract cities are successful because they are able to control their expenses.
The citizens of Rossmoor have a history of participation in community efforts and frugality with public funds. Just because Rossmoor can be its own city is not a reason to project any change in those attitudes.
I believe those opposing this effort are selling short our ability to be responsible citizens of our community. I agree that the future may be unclear and challenges will be presented for which we may not today be prepared, but as Americans, we have never backed off because something appeared to be difficult. Together we can be successful.
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