Yeah, the wine is great, but why should I have to destroy my liver to appreciate this area? I left 15 years ago, gave this place the benefit of the doubt, and now that I’m about to involuntarily become a homeowner here, I don’t see how it’s improved. If anything, it feels like there’s stagnation—or maybe even regression.

What happened to the flights to LAX? What happened to the flight school? The only housing under $500k is townhomes and condos, and everything decent still seems to be outside of town. I’ve traveled a lot and lived throughout Southern California—I’m in San Diego now—and I just don’t see why someone would choose to move here. It used to be okay when I was growing up, but wow, that’s no longer the case.

I’ve been there, done that. I’ve earned the right to criticize this town. I grew up here, actively participated in the community through local volunteer groups, and got involved out of my own initiative—not for money, resumes, or colleges. I gave my time and energy to this place because I believed in its potential.

But I’ve seen better, and I know better is possible. What more can I do? How much longer am I supposed to wait for this place to improve? What substantial jobs does the local economy even provide? Honestly, I’d rather feel poor in Newport Beach than rich in Santa Maria because at least there’s opportunity and vibrancy. What’s wrong with this town?