Letters

Re “A sea change in Avalon,” July 5

As a scuba diver and as one who appreciates the beauty the undersea world has to offer, I can’t think of anything more destructive to the sensitive nature of Avalon’s famous kelp beds than to have people walk along the bottom through them.

The disruption to the starfish and other bottom-dwelling creatures and plant life would be beyond compare.

I certainly hope the city of Avalon comes to its senses before a parade of eco-destroying tourists ruins the kelp forests for the rest of us.

Chuck Weiss

La Crescenta

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Your article on new spending plans for Avalon mentions more hotels, condos and a bigger golf course, but it makes fleeting mention of the town’s archaic plumbing system, which fouls its bay.

Why is tourism to Avalon down? People aren’t dumb. Would you buy or rent a place there and let your kids swim at one of California’s most polluted beaches?

Fix the sewage problem, then talk about these major renovations -- which will only make the problem worse.

Jim Van Eimeren

Huntington Beach

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My wife and I visit Catalina often, and we enjoyed reading about the new developments planned for the island. If Avalon’s businesses seriously want to increase the number of visitors to the island, they should consider reducing the cost of the ferry and eliminating the two-night minimum stay required by most of the island’s hotels.

Robert Marcos

La Quinta

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What would broaden the appeal in a difficult economy for a family or individuals is an equal opportunity to enjoy one of Southern California’s natural resources for less than the current high ticket prices. I would love to see discounted rates for students or families so that all could enjoy this wonderful island experience so close to L.A.

Sara Simons

Yorba Linda