Calabasas at the crossroads

Give Calabasas credit for one thing: This forward-thinking city is never afraid to push the envelope.

In the middle of a deep and prolonged recession—as California, its cities and public schools struggle to stay afloat—the city of Calabasas broaches the idea of building a $7-million water theme park complete with water slides, concession stand, palm trees and eight-lane swimming pool—not unlike an over-the-top Las Vegas resort, as one incredulous official proclaimed.

The theme park, or aquatics center as it’s also being called, would be built at De Anza Park at the Lost Hills-Las Virgenes crossroads. With homes right across the street, the park already has a roller hockey rink and lights in the evening. And also, isn’t there a water shortage going on?

The timing, actually, isn’t bad. Construction companies and contractors hungry for work could use a shot in the arm. Recessionweary families could use a little light relief. And Calabasas, thanks to its strong financial stewardship and rare ability to actually save money when other governments cannot, has the financial wherewithal to build the big facility without going into debt.

The point is this: Will the real Calabasas please stand up?

The city’s love of parks and attention to the environment is second to none. There isn’t a city in California that keeps its water, soil and atmosphere any cleaner.

It’s not that the water park would be an eyesore. To the contrary, the early designs are simply stunning. (See picture on page 2.) But is this what the residents here—where Malibu Creek State Park casts its lovely shadow over the land and scenic Las Virgenes Road begins its graceful run to the ocean—really want?

This is where a skate park was once voted down. This is where the venerable Pumpkin Festival needs space to spread its wings. This is where city leaders have always been hesitant to expand the footprint of development due to the area’s proximity to open space and sensitive ecological zones. And this is also not too far from the former Soka University where Calabasas officials fought long and hard to keep development from getting out of hand.

“I’m conflicted,” says Councilmember Mary Sue Maurer. “I’ve flown kites and thrown paper airplanes and really enjoyed that wide open expanse.”

Calabasas has a decision to make. After all the voices are heard, we trust it will be the right one.