V I E W P O I N T
L ET T ER S Our readers write
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revision process at the Planning Commission and the council. What should have been promised in January and begun in June was a process that could have stressed fairness and mutual respect. I’ve lived here long enough to know that we now have an environment that can produce a political sea change. It’s happened before and this issue is fraught with frustration. What is the solution? The council needs to show grace and gratitude to the hundreds of residents who have spoken and written to them. These are their constituents, the people who voted them onto the seats they hold. Work with them, listen to their ideas and include them in decisions that will affect their lives. Brielle Johnck, former Environmental Commissioner Central Avenue, Menlo Park
Define objectives before deciding on Syrian attack Editor: On Syria, there are two facts.
1) It is a civil war, not unlike civil wars that occur from time to time across the world. 2) Chemical weapons are used in contravention of the Geneva Protocol. The same could be said about the Congo, where a simmering civil war has claimed more lives and, against multiple international treaties, child soldiers are deployed and women raped. Intervention in Syria, but not the Congo, will be because of our national interest. Let’s be honest and define what those interests are and what path to best achieve them. What are our objectives? An immediate cease-fire enforced from the air? Securing or neutralizing the stockpiles of chemical weapons? Ousting the Assads to exile in Switzerland or trials at The Hague? Supporting a representative government that recognizes Israel’s right to exist and stay out of Lebanese politics? Sending a strong message to Iran? We have options, none of them good, cheap, or risk-free. We should listen to the president as he makes his case and presents his plan. But if we are still not sure, if we are not united in our purpose, don’t go. George Yang Madera Avenue, Menlo Park
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