EDITORIAL PLANNING POWER VALLEY PANEL GETS MUCH-NEEDED SHAKE-UP.

SOMETIMES the little things are what make the big difference.

Most likely, few people noticed the shake-up on the South Valley Planning Commission last week. Most likely, few people even know the South Valley Planning Commission exists at all, despite its potential for influencing and shaping the lives of everyone within its sphere of influence in the San Fernando Valley.

The panel of seven people appointed by the mayor reviews building plans, zone changes and conditional-use permits. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa last week replaced four of the commissioners from the previous administration with his own picks.

While it may not be an unusual move for a new mayor, it is an opportunity to do some real good.

And that is for the newly reconstituted panel to be charged with developing a goal and philosophy of balancing the needs of developers and the good of the community. The regional planning commissions are the first in the line to protect the integrity of communities and have power to encourage smart growth and livable neighborhoods while developing a comprehensive vision.