Disneyland Says 'Not In My Backyard'

6 November 2006 - 2:00pm

Park officials in Anaheim, California, are voicing their objections to a proposal to build 1,500 new housing units -- including 200 affordable apartments -- adjacent to the theme park.

"Disney officials agree housing is a pressing issue in the city of 350,000 people, but that it doesn't belong outside the gates to Disneyland and Disney's adjacent California Adventure park.

'It's like owning a wonderful house in a wonderful neighborhood,' said Ed Chuchla, Disneyland's vice president of corporate real estate. 'You care about the house and what could impact it.'

City Councilwoman Lorri Galloway said the debate has highlighted her concerns over the future direction of Anaheim's resort district.

'Disney is looking at a time when you didn't have to make 25 bucks an hour to live in a two-bedroom apartment,' Galloway said of the city's largest employer. 'Time and society have altered that plan naturally. Disney is just going to have to change with the times.'"

Source: San Jose Mercury News, November 5, 2006
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I argue that the vocabulary of planning and the concepts necessary to participate in local government and planning issues need to be taught to students in K-12.