Barrett went on to say that the concerns of the Sunland-Tujunga community have always been about negative traffic impact, air and noise pollution, safety for pedestrians and the children of Apperson Elementary School and the proximity of two nearby retirement homes. Another concern is obstructed views for drivers turning onto Foothill Boulevard from side streets. The desire is to have a general merchandise store on the site.
"There is a saying, 'If you can't beat your opponent on the facts, then simply label them a racist,'" Barrett said. "We really hope that the Home Depot will drop these ugly tactics and turn their attention back to the real issues of Land Use and Zoning Laws."
Contrary to the claims by Home Depot that the firm has only been doing tenant improvements on the property, the NHDC has proven to the Planning Commission that, in fact, the scope of work done is much more broad. The improvements have now been labeled a "project" thus making it subject to increased scrutiny and environmental review. Home Depot has appealed the city's decision and that is what the July 19 hearing will address.
