Hidden agendas? A "wolf in sheep's clothing?" A "doomsday" measure? These accusations and others are just some of the criticisms of the new Proposition 98 on the June 2008 ballot. "Straightforward." A "true Eminent Domain reform" with no hidden agendas. These statements are just some of the praises for the new Proposition 99, on the same June 2008 ballot.

When you go to the polls this June, you'll find Propositions 98 and 99 both promising to protect against eminent domain abuse. But, will they both do it equally as well? Conventional wisdom says not..so which one will do the best job of protecting your interests, whether you be a renter or a homeowner? Is Propostion 98 as bad as they claim? Is Proposition 99 as good as they profess?

On Saturday, May 17, the Pacifica Democrats will host Assemblyman Gene Mullin of the 19th Assembly District, who will discuss with the Democrats the merits of both Propositions 98 and 99, at their 9:30 a.m. monthly breakfast meeting, which is held in the Banquet Room at the Sharp Park Golf Course Restaurant (Sharp Park and Francisco Blvd.) in Pacifica.

As the days and weeks grow closer to the election, bi-partisan opposition continues to grow against Prop 98. Prominent Republicans U.S. Rep. George Radanovich (R-Mariposa), Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger, along with former Governor Pete Wilson formally oppose Prop 98. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-San Francisco) also opposes Proposition 98 and calls the measure 'reckless'. Senator Feinstein supports Proposition 99 as responsible Eminent Domain reform.

The official group supporting Prop 98 is Californians for Property Rights Protection, which is a project of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. Other notable supporters include the California Farm Bureau Federation, the California Alliance to Protect Private Property Rights Committee and the California Republican Party. Supporters of Proposition 98 also include the California Association of Realtors, the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles and numerous taxpayer associations.

Opponents of Proposition 98 largely overlap with supporters of California Proposition 99. The coalition of groups opposing the initiative include AARP, the League of Women Voters of California, the Western Center on Law & Poverty, California Professional Firefighters, California Chamber of Commerce, California Teachers Association and lobbying associations that represent California municipalities, tenant groups, environmental groups and unions. The Los Angeles Times says that this is an 'unusual alliance' of organizations, chalking it up to the provision in Prop 98 that phases out rent control.

Come listen to Assemblyman Mullin and make your own decision as to which measure is the best for you. All Pacifica Democrats meetings are open to the public. It is not necessary to be a Democrat to attend. A full breakfast is served. However, there is no purchase necessary. Full breakfast: $12; Continental Breakfast $6 ; Coffee only: $3. Doors open at 9 a.m. Meeting begins at 9:30 a.m.

For further information, please call Barbara Arietta, Vice President of Membership and Publicity (415) 246-0775 or Frank Winston, vice president of Programs 738-9400.