Measure G does not have the flaws of the original interim ordinance which tried to solve the big house issue under the same umbrella as historic preservation. That ordinance is long gone. Measure G is an ordinance tempered in response to input from over 300 public communications and community input over 3 years' time. These rules are not arbitrary. Palo Alto will use the same standards used in communities nationwide.
Opponents say they can write a better ordinance.
If that were so, and they truly were interested in the preservation of our city's treasures, they could have brought their suggested ordinance to the voters along with the referendum. They did not. They also know that if an ordinance is overturned by referendum, by law no similar ordinance can be enacted for at least one year. Many owners of historic properties have done the right thing by their homes. To them, we as a community have cause to be grateful.