Measure Y debate Wednesday in Newport

Speak Up Newport will present a debate about Newport Beach’s Measure Y on Wednesday evening.

At the forum, dubbed “Y or Y Not,” former Mayor Don Webb and Planning Commissioner Larry Tucker will argue in support of the November ballot measure, which would change the city’s general plan to allow increased development potential in some areas of the city while decreasing it in others.

Former Councilwoman Jean Watt and Stop Polluting Our Newport treasurer Dennis Baker will speak in opposition.

While critics of the measure say it would increase traffic, especially through Corona del Mar, supporters say that, by garnering development fees, it would help fund traffic mitigation in the future.

A reception is set for 5:30 p.m. in the Newport Beach Civic Center Community Room, 100 Civic Center Drive. The approximately hourlong debate will start at 6 p.m.

For more information, call (949) 224-2266 or go to speakupnewport.org.

—Jill Cowan