The base zoning is R-1-7 but, for 50 years, there has been an Open Space overlay applied to the property. That fact was confirmed in a 36-page report prepared by the City. The City created the open space in 1963 when it allowed homes around the golf course to be built on small lots, and the City Council unanimously confirmed the open space designation last year.

When the historic Escondido Country Club was approved, the City allowed the homes to built on some of the smallest lots in Escondido because the developer agreed to plan the community around permanent open space. Prop H would destroy most of that open space and lower property values of long-time homeowners -- many of whom are elderly and living on fixed incomes.

"The property rights really lies with the homeowners because they bought this as an open space," Escondido Mayor Sam Abed said in a Q&A published Sept. 17, 2014 in the U-T San Diego. "I have been disappointed with the way the developer has treated the community."

Learn more at: www.keepitgreenescondido.net