An open letter about merging Oceano and Grover Beach

When the concept of annexation or “merger” of Oceano with Grover Beach was presented as a solution for the impending fire services challenge facing Oceano, we were favorable to the idea. After speaking with community members and gaining more understanding, it is now difficult to imagine how such an action would solve the fire services problem. Oceano also risks losing or—at a minimum—diluting its representation, given its relatively small population.

It is even more difficult to understand how it would be fair or feasible to Grover Beach, which would ostensibly be responsible for fire and police, and would also take on the curbs, gutters, and sidewalks effort underway in Oceano, as well as other requests from the community. It would be a big lift.

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View Original Publication: New Times