The small town of Portrero, California, in San Diego County just stood up to Blackwater USA, a company that has been called "the world's most powerful mercenary army." 824 acres in and near the town had been the choice for Blackwater West, a new training facility for mercenaries and bodyguards (and possibly future border guards), and the city council had been inclined to approve the project.
The ordinary citizens of Portrero, however, opposed having Blackwater in their backyard for many reasons: fire hazard, traffic, noise, water rights, etc. They wanted to preserve their quality of life in this rural town and they didn't want a private army marching in. So they stood up and voted this week to oust all the pro-Blackwater council members and replace them with leaders who oppose the invasion of Blackwater.
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has the final say on the project, but it will now be more difficult for them to approve it because these residents of the affected land have spoken so loudly. The Board may still reject the will of the residents of Portrero, but they might want to think twice. Supervisors can also be recalled, and Blackwater officials don't have a vote.
