REPORT ON NOYO RIVER LODGE
by Robert W. Matson

"A good steward is conscious of the impact on the trees, wildlife, neighbors and pets when developing a new tourist destination. When greed or arrogance are present it is the responsibility of good journalists to step forward and shed light on violations - whether they be from government, the real estate industry, builder / developers or any of their peers, employees or associates who may conspire against the innocent and disregard innocent and vulnerable life, lie, cheat and manipulate to get their projects through and line their pockets with money." The innocent and suffering must be protected from the greedy and arrogant.

Joseph Marino, property owner, said that he wants to keep this property as original as possible and is trying to be a good steward to breathe another 100 years of life into it. He is trying to recreate the crown jewel of Noyo Harbor.

You can tell by looking at the barren tree stumps on the hill which native birds used to roost in that he is telling the truth. You can also tell by the arrogant way the builder pushes his weight around that he really cares - cares only about getting his way and thats it. Oh - and by the way - the public has access 24 hours of the day and I am glad you were forced to remove the hurricane fence you built which blocked access to the harbor. People need to safely walk into Noyo Harbor without risking their life by walking down the narrow and dangerous road into the harbor.

I have seen it happen over and over again during the past 40 years I have been a journalist and travel author. A property owner and builder may have the best intentions and high standards, but are extremely frustrated in this current political economic environment. They forget. They forget about the freedoms and right to life of the most innocent and vulnerable around them. The abused become the abuser. And that is when a balance must be re-established. Love and respect for life is more important than money. In the long term it pays off in increased occupancy and cash flow.

THE REPORT

SPECIAL CONDITIONS - Page 13 - City of Fort Bragg Planning Commission Report - September 14, 2011

2. The Noyo Harbor Lodge shall not impede public use of the pedestrian accessway that traverses the property and provides a connection from Casa del Noyo Drive to Noyo Harbor. The accessway shall not be blocked or impeded through the installation of signage, fencing or barriers.