Mayor Steve Pougnet was recently interviewed by KPSI NewsTalk Radio's Steve Kelly regarding the Planning Commission's rejection of the plaza's development proposal. Mayor Pougnet clearly evidenced his disapproval of the commission, its actions, and referred to Commissioner Doug Hudson as an "instigator" with a conflict of interest. Mr. Hudson's alleged conflict, in the Mayor's eyes, is because he's a volunteer member of a local historic preservation organization. It was clear from the Mayor's comments that one may reasonably conclude Hudson's days as a commissioner are probably numbered and his reappointment not probable.

The Desert Sun's Sunday editorial "A good plan for downtown" made a good case for community consensus to bring the latest vision of the Desert Fashion Plaza redevelopment to reality. All will surely agree the long under-used mostly vacant site represents a stumbling block and no genuine downtown revitalization will occur until the plaza becomes a productive part of the area. Only the costs, who will pay  and proof the design will become a reality appear to stand in the way.

Perhaps the major stumbling blocks to public involvement in plaza redevelopment are ones seldom mentioned - in print. It's the twin issues of credibility and trust. Why should the community consider the current plan and the new Wessman-Pougnet partnership credible and trustworthy? Mr. Wessman has owned the property for more than a decade and despite many promises the property remains little more than a community blight. Mayor Pougnet has failed to keep his own promises regarding plaza redevelopment and his attempts to silence the Planning Commission will not earn him public trust. Each of these partners stands to benefit from plaza redevelopment. One seeks financial rewards and the other political advantages.

Should taxpayers foot any portion of the bill to redevelop the privately owned Desert Fashion Plaza? In order for that prospect to become a reality what's needed first is for all relevant sectors of the community to be involved. If taxpayers are expected to lend their financial support, absolute guarantees together with a clearly defined development agreement must be part of the process. And, above all, the benefits to the community must clearly outweigh those Mssrs Wessman and Pougnet expect to reap for themselves.

Bond Shands
Palm Springs

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