As a resident that has only lived here for 12 years, I too have seen the major changes that Moorpark has gone through. Some are good, in my opinion, as in more choices to eat, shop, see movies, places to work out and a great pool. Others not so good— about 400 nail salons, 400 banks, 200 pizza places and about 10 drug stores.

No book stores and plenty of empty spaces where quality, not fast food or coffee and yogurt and nail salons, could go, but some healthy alternatives for places to eat and a book store that would help parents buy the books that are needed for their students at the junior high and high school level as well as all children and adults.

What we have always had since I have lived here is a strong sense of community, great schools, with some even being award winning, a great DARE program, and even defeating big giants like North Park.

We always see the best people come out for Relay for Life, Rabid Dog Run and wonderful July 3rd fireworks, as well as community events like Moorpark Country Days and all the other wonderful opportunities that we have in this small but growing town.

We have had the most wonderful mayor for many years and I think for the most of us we are very sad to see him leave his post but truly understanding of the wonderful things he has done for Moorpark and now it is time for someone else to take the reins, but not someone who is not challenged, who will leave their post on the City Council and leave an open spot that will need to be filled by an election, which is the way it should be done so all citizens of Moorpark can be heard from, not just appoint someone to take Ms. Parvin's place.

We need good choices and we have plenty of them, who I urge to stand up and take on this role. Of course by writing this letter, many may say "You're complaining, why don't you run?" I have no experience at all with budgets and government. I am not someone who could run the city but I know without naming names there are wonderful men and women who have been on the planning commission, city council, AYSO, school board who would make it a fair and decent race.

Wouldn't it be nice to have a choice? Nothing against Ms. Parvin, but choices are always nice.

Thanks, Mayor Hunter. You will be missed. Lisa Padilla Moorpark