DANA POINT

As negotiations over a proposed development along the Dana Point Headlands continue this week, the key issue probably will be the amount of public open space provided along the 121-acre promontory.

The preliminary agreement between members of the City Council and Headlands Reserve LLC that was reached last week calls for 62 acres of open space, including a beach, three public parks and roughly four miles of public walkways or trails.

Dana Point Mayor Ruby L. Netzley, who negotiated on behalf of the city along with Councilman Wayne Rayfield, said she shares the concerns of many outspoken residents who have stressed the importance of securing as much public open space as possible.

Both sides will meet again this week to continue discussions before the proposal goes to public hearings and approval from the Planning Commission and, ultimately, the City Council.