Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune
On May 23, 2000, The San Diego Union-Tribune published an article entitled, "Krishnas Find Their Mecca: Leaders Say Escondido Site is 'Perfect' for Temple; Neighbors Disagree." In order to meet traditional Hindu guidelines the site must be "high in the south, sloped in the north, have hills to the east and be open to the west. It must have a single road on the north, and water flowing through it. The soil must be light-colored and the land sweet-smelling." And this site in Escondito, CA is less than a 20 minute drive for most temple members. But neighborhood concerns over the size of the 32,000 square foot cultural center, the two temples, dormitory and four single-family homes have made for heated meetings at the city's Design Review Board. Amendments to the temple plans must receive approval from the Venkatachalapati Temple in India.