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Alameda & Del Valle Windsurfing in Trouble
The State of California’s latest budget move could lead to the closure of Lake Del Valle and reduced services at Crown Beach in Alameda. This could in turn lead to the suspension of the windsurfing concessions at these great beginner spots.
The Governor's budget proposal calls for a significant shift in property taxes from local governments in order to balance the deficit of the State. The formula imposes a disproportionate burden on “special districts” including the East Bay Regional Park District that operates Lake Del Valle and Crown Beach. While most cities would lose 2-4% of their funding, East Bay Regional Park District would lose around 20% of their funding, or about $17.5 million.
The State Budget is due on July 1st. If you are concerned, please write or call the Governor’s office and members of the State Legislature as soon as possible. Letters will carry the most weight. Phone calls and faxes will carry more weight than e-mails. If you call, ask to talk to a staff member who is familiar with the issue and let them know that these parks provide a great benefit for many of us and a particularly a safe place for beginners to sail and learn.
Governor
Arnold Schwarzenegger
State Capitol
Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone:
916-445-2841
Fax:
916-445-4633
Background Information: http://www.ebparks.org/
Sample Letter: http://www.ebparks.org/district/legltr.doc
Senator/Assembly (East Bay): http://www.ebparks.org/district/leg_contacts.htm
Find your Representative: http://192.234.213.69/smapsearch/framepage.asp