Letters to the editor: A disconnect in Ventura; reasons for violence; engaged citizen

Facts don’t back up development

Re: The Star’s June 4 editorial, “A new look at development in Ventura”:

The editorial states: “The city’s population, which had grown consistently and considerably for decades, is no longer doing so. Population growth has flattened for a decade now and, according to both the U.S. Census Bureau of the California Department of Finance, it shrank over the last year. The Census Bureau estimates a decline of 0.4% since 2020.

“The number of vehicles on the county’s roads, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles, has dropped since 2019. Enrollment in the Ventura Unified School District has fallen every year since 2014, dropping by about 11% since that time.”

This set of facts does not support the idea that Ventura needs development growth — the type of growth the city council is pushing through despite the clear objections of city residents. Yet The Star seems to be siding with the council in its nonstop drive to build anywhere and everywhere within the city limits. I am confused to say the least.

If our city isn’t growing, why are we building? There is a serious disconnect here.

Sunjay Moorthy, Ventura

Violence isn’t all about guns

Violence and the “fruits of the Spirit” are at odds with each other. Violence and the virtues of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, and self-control are incompatible. Violence is borne of a disregard for these virtues, though the assault on them is increasingly celebrated in our narcissistic culture.

Violence and, as some specifically contend, gun violence is a scourge that will only be solved by “controlling guns.” I’m not so sure, for many reasons, though I agree, as the Constitution states, they should be “regulated.” I see no reason for assault weapons. Nonetheless, many see gun control as the solution.

What is missing from the discussion, it seems to me, is a fundamental cure based on a question: “Why do some people incline to kill innocent people?” Guns have been a part of our society for eons, yet few gun owners have that inclination. Guns sure don’t. Thus, guns are not the fundamental problem.

For the answer why, there is ample evidence that spiritual decay, the collapse of the family, an escalating crisis of meaning and purpose that disregards the transcendent while worshiping “the self,” the pathologizing of the human condition, and unmoored, anguished, and empty lives are the fuel for predatory violence. Not guns. For a solution, I propose the “fruits of the Spirit.” For that, we need to simply reach.

Keith Gallagher, Santa Paula

Quest for meaningful engagement

Re: Wayne Morgan’s June 8 letter, “Respectful engagement needed”:

I write to express my gratitude for Mr. Morgan’s insightful letter, which has inspired me to contribute my perspectives to the ongoing dialogue. As an engaged citizen of Ventura, I wish to explore the challenges we face in fostering respectful engagement, promoting inclusive discussions, and ensuring local vested interest in decision-making processes. Through humor and thoughtful reflection, I hope to shed light on these important issues and encourage a more responsive and accountable local government.

George Amandola, Ventura

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Letters: Disconnect in Ventura; reasons for violence; engaged citizen