Oakland mayoral candidate Joe Tuman sent this open letter regarding the Moraga Canyon Sports Fields proposal. Here’s an excerpt:

The proposed design of the Moraga Sports Complex would replace the natural, rustic beauty of Moraga Canyon. A visible pedestrian walkway, fencing, and a large retaining wall would obscure and change the feel and aesthetic quality of the canyon. In my view, bringing new design ideas into a location that has traditionally been rustic requires, at the very least, a design concept that blends with what was originally there.

As the father of two children who played many sports, I understand Piedmont parents’ desire to provide a space for young people to play. However, neighboring communities need to be sensitive to, and respectful of, the needs of one another. Piedmont cannot ignore Oakland residents’ concerns in this situation, including those of safety and traffic congestion.

Read the entire letter (PDF, 70K)