Sad Lesson Seen in Shearer’s Letter

The letter from Derek Shearer which appeared in the Westside section Sept. 25 was both sad and instructive. The letter was sad because, having served on the Planning Commission with Derek for two years, I can attest to his intelligence and creativity. However, the letter is an example of the arrogance and immaturity which has consistently plagued Derek’s career in the city of Santa Monica and prevented him from being a significant positive force for the city’s future.

The orgy of self-pity reflected in Derek’s letter clearly shows that he does not recognize the impact which his behavior has upon his ability. This is so even though his own supporters, such as Dennis Zane, publicly indicate dismay over some of his actions.

The letter is instructive because it reminds us that the best results come from a gathering together of people of good will who are dedicated to building a consensus on the direction of the city.

Derek can rail away all he wants to on the theory that his removal was a political payoff to developers. Although such a theory may be needed to preserve his own self-esteem and sense of his “national reputation,” the appointment of another citizen activist identified with Derek’s own political faction indicates that the theory is nonsense.

Derek and others aligned with him have the potential to make outstanding contributions to building a consensus among all citizens of the city as to its direction. However, the ability to make those contributions are significantly impaired when they are combined with a personality which reflects arrogance and immaturity.

THOMAS L. LARMORE

Los Angeles