Disqus - Latest Comments for LB Resident

Re: ALAN LOWENTHAL ENDORSES JOHNSON IN 7TH

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:57:02 -0000

Terry Jensen should run for mayor instead of council.

Re: ALAN LOWENTHAL ENDORSES JOHNSON IN 7TH

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:33:58 -0000

It's too bad nobody is running against him.

Re: ALAN LOWENTHAL ENDORSES JOHNSON IN 7TH

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:31:10 -0000

Why do you think Foster hates LB? Hasn't he lived in the city for 15 years or so?

Re: SECOND+PCH DEVELOPMENT MEETING TONIGHT

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:52:32 -0000

The development team always responds that traffic is what they hear from people who oppose the project. They conveniently leave out the near unanimous opposition to height. Why? It's a PR move. Because the development team can come up with studies and improvements that make it look like traffic is mitigated. They can do nothing to eliminate the height issues. Make no mistake, the proposed 12 story building is related to traffic obviously. But even if they miraculously come up with a plan to mitigate traffic, this project should not see the light of day until they take that offensive 12 story building out. After all of the feedback from the community and the Lennar debacle (which had SHORTER buildings) it is insulting that they even proposed it.

Re: ALAN LOWENTHAL ENDORSES JOHNSON IN 7TH

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:47:47 -0000

ABT

Re: A TENT-REVIVAL ATMOSPHERE FOR 49ERS UNDER THE PYRAMID

LB Resident — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:14:20 -0000

We had that excitement in the early/mid 90's too. I remember opening night at the Pyramid as a student. We actually had to line up the day before to get tickets. In my 4 years from 91-95 we had 2 ncaa tourny appearances and 1 NIT. Should have had another NIT but got robbed. Then Greenberg bolted and it was over. It does feel like the program is reviving. Gotta find a way to hold on to Monson!

Re: LAYOFFS AT LB MUSEUM OF ART; DIRECTOR BLAMES CITY BUDGET CUTS

LB Resident — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:25:34 -0000

Can't believe they are crying about the city cuts to subsidies after the way they have treated the taxpayers.

Re: SCHIPSKE ON MEDPOT PATIENTS: “THEY CAN GET IT ELSEWHERE”

LB Resident — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:38:44 -0000

The reason so many people are calling Gerrie in opposition is because a few have opened in her district. Her district is primarily made up of families in suburban neighborhoods. They don't like it.

Re: SCHIPSKE ON MEDPOT PATIENTS: “THEY CAN GET IT ELSEWHERE”

LB Resident — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:43:13 -0000

Sounds like Gerrie is listening to residents in her district. Good job.

Re: ON THE REBOUND

LB Resident — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:54:23 -0000

I am. And I enjoy taking my son to the Pyramid for games. I will enjoy it more if we have a season like I think we can this year.

Re: ON THE REBOUND

LB Resident — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:26:31 -0000

Good article. Go Beach!

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:28:18 -0000

wake up 7th district. do not vote for uranga. The article below is chilling. And there is no bigger example of the problem than Tonia Uranga.

http://www.lbreport.com/editorial/nov09/ediam.htm

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:27:23 -0000

maybe. but it won't be many and it won't be near neighborhoods.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:07:03 -0000

actually I think you'll see more of these shut down due to constituent pressure. this is likely only the first closure.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:51:15 -0000

not far. one on 2nd street in naples. really no point in arguing this with me. Im not changing my mind and you aren't either. I don't want pot sold by my house.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:05:55 -0000

I base it on the one down the street from my house.

also, i realize my kids can get pot anywhere. that isn't a reason to have clinic by my house.

it really is amazing the difference in perspective of people who have children and those who don't.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:28:19 -0000

Maybe there are many good uses for it and maybe there are good people who use it. I don't know and I don't care. But these facilities also bring many idiots looking for pot and I don't need it around my house or children. Save your pot vs. liquor arguments for someone else. It's irrelevant from my perspective.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:45:18 -0000

My guess is many parents feel differently than you. I know I do. We guide them, we do the right things with out OTC meds, yet we still don't need the added influence and quality of life issues that go along with these centers.

Re: OFF-CAMERA

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:42:10 -0000

my speculation is he has multiple numbers and the one is question was annoying him due to many inquiries regarding the status of the deal.

Re: OFF-CAMERA

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:49:15 -0000

all I know is that this is why I read TDW.

Re: CITY TARGETS MARIJUANA DISPENSARY FOR VIOLATING ITS OWN BUSINESS LICENSE

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:32:39 -0000

Do you have children and do they live in said residence?

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:47:51 -0000

To argue that Tonia is best because of her experience requires that you believe she had led the district and city well over the last 8 years. Are you making that case? In my mind there is much more risk if we continue down the current path. Tonia is a person that actually believes we should take hotel bed taxes and create a low income housing fund instead of using that money for more police and infrastructure. She is a person that believes we should continue the existing pension structure for city employees (most who do not live in Long Beach) that is destroying our budget and ability to deliver basic core city services. She believes that hotel workers should unionize. Do you know that we are about to lose the Hotel Sierra development at the Pike due to union influence. My goodness, how can you argue status quo when status quo means failing budget, failing infrastructure, not enough police, and most importantly placing employee and union interests over residents? This is not ideology. This is common sense.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:08:47 -0000

well part of that is sort of my point. people that like her say she is a good woman, she supports working people, blah blah blah. But nobody can name a single thing she has actually accomplished to help her district. she helps union employees, period. Even the recent storm drain improvement in her district only came because of the federal stimulus package. she had 8 years to fight for the improvement but didn't. she chose employee pensions, social services like translating council meetings, and low income housing over fixing the flooding problem. people should listen to her during council meetings. she is always about the employees. she says quote "they are her family". she could care less about the hard working residents if they don't work for a union or the city.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:10:01 -0000

I love Long Beach. It has a lot to offer. But like all cities it can be better. I don't think Ms. Uranga advocates for policies that help the city. To say she isn't bought off is insane. Nobody is more owned by the unions that Ms. Uranga. Bought and paid for 10 times over.

And it's ridiculous to lump Uranga in with Rae and Gerrie. Rae and Gerrie support homeowners and residents. Gerrie led the sawcutting program for sidewalks. Rae helped revitalize the Bixby Knolls business corridor and she had the guts to vote against the pay raise for employees a year or so ago. Those are just a couple of examples. They arent perfect and I don't always agree with the two of them, but they are head and shoulders better than Uranga. Tonia's top concerns by a mile are city employees and unions. And she doesn't hide it.

So whether you're tired of hearing from me or not, I am free to post my opinion. Thanks for reading.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:05:46 -0000

She has been a friend to the city employee...unfortunately not to the homeowners and residents.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:59:59 -0000

Clearly you'd vote for anyone as long as they pretend to like birds.

Re: THE NOT-SO-GREAT LONG BEACH SMOKEOUT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:04:02 -0000

I'm a moderate independent.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:22:18 -0000

One addition, uranga is generally ineffective at accomplishing her goals. so she is preferable to someone with her same ideas but also effective at pushing through those ideas.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:10:11 -0000

I can't think of a single thing I agree with her on other than supporting reconfiguring the breakwater. I guess if there was a uranga clone who opposed the breakwater reconfiguration then I would want uranga.

From prioritizing unsustainable employee pensions and wages to low income housing to unneeded social service spending to refusing to contract out for efficiency to a host of other things she is absolutely harmful to the city. In my opinion...

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:52:24 -0000

anyone but her...

Re: THE NOT-SO-GREAT LONG BEACH SMOKEOUT

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:04:12 -0000

Big surprise. I thought we were all about hopey changy post partisan blah blah blah.

Re: CALLING ALL HITCHCOCKS: NEW PENALTY FOR RAVAGING A WETLANDS ONLY $1,000

LB Resident — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:50:31 -0000

Well this elitist jerk appreciates the work you do and would love to see it focussed on the issues I mentioned. I would also love another update on the movie studio/tesla saga. Keep up the good work...

Re: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STRADDLES FENCE ON MEASURE T

LB Resident — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 12:07:30 -0000

The problem is not that we don't tax enough. We do. It's just that low and middle income workers do not pay their fair share. Nearly 50% of our population does not pay any Federal Income Tax. That is not sustainable. Everyone needs to pay something, even a small amount. Otherwise you end up with a society where a majority of the population demands more service regardless of the cost because they know they will not have to pay for it. Then the producing members of society leave or give up. Everyone needs to pay their fair share, including the non "so called rich".

Re: CALLING ALL HITCHCOCKS: NEW PENALTY FOR RAVAGING A WETLANDS ONLY $1,000

LB Resident — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:15:15 -0000

Actually, I think along with lbreport that TDW does the best investigative journalism in LB (point of view style aside) and I'd like them to provide some light on some of the more important issues in the city. This hitchcock is a bad guy story, wetlands are in danger blah blah blah is getting old. I must admit I became optimistic when I first read the city was trying to acquire all the properties in exchange for the old west long beach sports park property. But now I realize we've had a degraded swamp for 30 years and unfortunately it isn't like to get any better any time soon.

Re: CALLING ALL HITCHCOCKS: NEW PENALTY FOR RAVAGING A WETLANDS ONLY $1,000

LB Resident — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:31:34 -0000

what is this the 4th story on this subject??? can you write the story about how many LB cops live in LB. Or what is the status on the breakwater funding? is the council going to commit to the feasibility study in order to have the corps look at the reconassaince study? or how about what is foster's plan to fix our infrastructure now the measure I failed? Another tax hopefully that includes renters this time and focusses on the core services and not new fire stations? I mean really with all of the issues out there you have plenty to write about. Let's mix something else in every once in awhile...

Re: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STRADDLES FENCE ON MEASURE T

LB Resident — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:28:30 -0000

Very, very, well said.

Re: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STRADDLES FENCE ON MEASURE T

LB Resident — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:17:15 -0000

I don't know how anyone could disagree with the points made in the text. Though I'm sure some on this site will tell me why I'm wrong. But basically I think it spells out why so many are undecided on this measure. We're tired of the waste, teachers union running wild, etc. but they put the gun to our head and say give us more money or your kids will suffer. It's a tough spot for hard working, homeowner parents...

Re: TO DO: RUNS N’ GOSES

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 12:21:24 -0000

So come with me, don't ask me where cause I don't know.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:34:24 -0000

No, there isn't.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:34:00 -0000

I don't agree this is his goal.

Re: TOUGH LOVE

LB Resident — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:10:05 -0000

probably all of the above

Re: FAMED BELMONT SHORE COURTS SAVED … NOT THAT ANYONE KNEW THEY WERE IN DANGER | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 16:01:40 -0000

There isn't really anything "private" about that area. There is huge parking lot that sits mostly empty. If people want to go there, they can.

I don't know Colonna and have no vested interest in his finances. That said, let's assume he drove this project initially and his intent was to increase his property's value. Who cares? If the project enhances the beauty of the area, it's a good thing even if Colonna benefits.

I was at the meeting. I thought the city officials handled a somewhat rude crowd very well. The folks who opposed the court move all had their own interests in mind. For example, a few "moms" apparently want the preschool rebuilt instead. I'm not saying they should not rebuild it, I'm just saying people have different priorities depending on their perspective and that is what is playing out here.

For the most part, all of the proposals on the project list that was passed out have merit. Prioritizing is the controversial part.

Re: FAMED BELMONT SHORE COURTS SAVED … NOT THAT ANYONE KNEW THEY WERE IN DANGER | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 17:07:11 -0000

I don't think the goal was to get more people to Alamitos Bay. The goal there was to beautify the area and reduce noise and nusiances. I personally think those are good goals and are accomplished by moving the courts and replacing them with a park. (I don't live there just to be clear so I'm not biased.)

The argument then is that you're moving the noise to another spot. However, the Granada area is much further from the neighborhood (you have to cross Ocean Blvd and a parking lot) so you're not going to have the same complaints.

As far as the area being wind blown, that can be solved with wind protection elements.

I'm not saying it's a perfect plan either. I'm just saying it has merit for consideration.

Re: SAY WHAT? BELMONT SHORE COURTS STILL IN JEOPARDY

LB Resident — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 23:42:25 -0000

I think the City is just trying figure out where consensus is.

Generally folks on the Peninsula and in the immediate Bay Shore area like this project. There are a few specific groups that don't. The daycare group doesn't because they use the hockey rink. The basketball players don't because of sentimental reasons. And the folks by Granada are concerned about parking.

There are lots of folks who like the idea of making the area quieter and prettier so the City finds itself in a bit of a bind.

Re: SAY WHAT? BELMONT SHORE COURTS STILL IN JEOPARDY

LB Resident — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:10:31 -0000

I think Mr. Sandoval jumped the gun. He got caught up at a meeting of about 50 people and pronounced the project dead when there was still more information needed. He didn't have the information to make the decision at that point and he didn't have the authority to kill it anyway.

Re: SAY WHAT? BELMONT SHORE COURTS STILL IN JEOPARDY

LB Resident — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:40:56 -0000

I believe you. I was there too and was just estimating attendance. Still, even if it was 100 people, that is a small number. I think Mr. Sandavol should have said he didn't have the authority. I don't know his motives for not saying that. Maybe ego. Who knows.

Ultimately my point is there are thousands of people affected by this project and the city needs to find out what the majority of folks want. At the BSRA meeting you had small number of people there and the people who spoke mostly fell into the camps I describe above. I'm sure if I wanted to I could find 100 residents that support the move.

There are merits to both sides of the argument. I just think the conspiracy / city is a bunch of liars talk isn't helpful to finding the right decision.

Re: SAY WHAT? BELMONT SHORE COURTS STILL IN JEOPARDY

LB Resident — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 19:39:25 -0000

When there is a city proposal of any kind, the folks against tend to be the ones to show up. That's why the meeting had that make up.

I agree with you. It's not good that he was speaking out of turn. The city needs to do better with communication.

Re: HOLY SHIP | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 23:19:22 -0000

I don't care if it does happen that way. I just want something to happen so I can get my sidewalks fixed and beach restored. While they're at it they can end these stupid affordable housing programs and uplevel the demographics so we can get some decent retail downtown.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:02:07 -0000

Great. Now instead of improved landscaping, tax revenue, and shopping convenience we get to look at a bunch of empty oil tanks. I'm all for restoring the wetlands but this property is not and it is a visual blight. Amazing how a few bird watchers can ruin a development that would have benefitted the entire city. If they would have negotiated instead of fought with the developer they probably could have gotten some money for the wetlands restoration. Now we are stuck with no money for it and a bunch of degraded swamp land.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:38:26 -0000

Gunther, you should be taxed for being shortsighted. I'm not against bird watchers or nature. I support restoring the wetlands. This property however is not wetlands. It is a tank yard with empty tanks at that. The geniuses who sued should have gone down the route of negotiation with the developer. Let him build the design center (which would beautify the area) but require a $5M donation to wetlands restoration across the street where the real wetlands are. The wetlands group once again takes an all or nothing approach and gets nothing. It happened 10 years ago with Bixby, and now it's happening with this project. Those of us who just want to see improvement in the area are left funding lawsuits with our tax dollars and getting nothing in return.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:54:02 -0000

"well maintained adjoining tank farm"? You've got to be kidding...

A research campus? Right. Why don't we just ask the property owners to put in a park. I'm sure they would be open to that.

A bit of realism might actually get us to good compromise.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:54:57 -0000

Personally attacking me won't get the wetlands restored. Compromising will. If we're unwilling to do that then we can all look at the swamp land, trash, and empty oil tanks for the next 50 years. Congratulations. You win.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:09:11 -0000

Like it or not, that property is going to be developed in a way that makes a developer some money or it's going to remain unchanged. If we agree the current blight is unacceptable then the framework we have is what will we accept that still allows a developer to make a profit? If not a design center then what? Houses? Department store? What?

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:25:48 -0000

Well that's where we disagree. It's an entry way to East Long Beach and should be improved.

The Bixby's were a LB family and Tom Dean (the current owner) lives in Naples. Consistently that property looks like dog doo doo. I'd like it cleaned up.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:48:34 -0000

Andy, the Bixby's tried to sell the land but the coastal commission and enviro folks would let them consolidate the drilling. Unwilling to compromise. Another example of how the people who most want restoration are the ones most responsible for it never happening.

Gunther, actually, my main goal is wetlands restoration and improved asethics for surrounding properties. The tax revenue is a bonus and the convenience is not an issue for me. As I said a Home Depot isn't my first choice.

I want that area to look nicer. I don't want Irvine but I don't want an unused tank land either.

I believe the choice is it remains the same or something gets developed. If you like it how it is, we disagree. If you agree it will be developed with something, my question still stands.

What would you like to see there?

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:19:26 -0000

I don't disagree with most of what you're saying. That doesn't mean that approach will lead to anything but status quo however. I find the satus quo unacceptable.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:15:53 -0000

PFOHN, how do you suppose we get the developer to put the trees back? Or clean up the trash? How do we convince the developer to clean it up and leave it as open space? We're going to be stuck with that blight for 50 years unless we lose the all or nothing approach I'm afraid.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 19:06:53 -0000

"Are you telling us that routine trash removal and a dozen trees are beyond the budget of guys wasting Millions to negligently waste 4 years of our time and City resources?"

No, I'm not. But just because they can afford it doesn't mean they'll do it. They won't.

What I am telling you is that the developers are motivated by money and they own the land whether you like it or not. Unless you have a way of enabling them to make money, you are not going to get the wetlands restored, and the surrounding properties will remain wastelands.

You've ranted and complained but have come up with no viable solution. My solution is to compromise. Let the developer develop some of the surrounding properties in exchange for the wetlands and a financial contribution to restoring them.

What is your solution? Or do you want to just keep ranting and suing for the next 50 years so nobody wins...

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:48:49 -0000

You're missing the entire point. I am a homeowner, just like you. That's it. I'm not rich. I work everyday for a living. I have no financial interest in any of those properties. I'm not trying to entitle anything. All I care about is improving the area. I want it prettier now and ultimately hopefully a nice restored wetlands.

Great, you won a lawsuit yesterday. Our wetlands aren't restored and have no chance of ever being restored as long as we approach this with your perspective.

Throw all the irrelvant statistics, data, rulings, blah blah blah at me you want. I'm not your enemy. I guess the developers are. But at the end of the day, you are your own worst enemy because you'll never achieve your goals of restoring the wetlands due only to your unwilligness to compromise. What you'll get is 50 years of status quo and lawsuits. Hurray...

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:40:55 -0000

I think if you got outside of your own group you'd find that I'm not the only one that has opinions like mine. Regardless, stop selling me on the benefits of a restored wetlands. I'm already sold. I want them restored for the 10th time. Stop telling me you've worked for 10 years on restoring the wetlands. We're not any closer today than we were 10 years ago. (Given the new land owner we're probably further away.) So your approach isn't working.

The first constructive thing you have said in all of this is "pass perimeter beautification ordinances". I would totally support this and actively campaign for it in my neighborhood. If you have any other good ideas, I'd love to hear them.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:55:11 -0000

Venus, good ideas.

I still think trying to get a perimeter ordinace passed is worth a try as well. Probably can't make them plant trees but trash pick up I would think is a possibility. Who wants to ask Gary to write the ordinance? I actually think he might be open to that if it's legal.

Gunther, I love the vision but since the land is currently zoned industrial, rather than sell it the owner will just keep it an industrial wasteland.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: COURT RULES AGAINST HOME DEPOT IN WETLANDS

LB Resident — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:30:52 -0000

I don't think I really changed my position. I think we've always had similar goals. Maybe just different strategies for achieving them. Certainly we share some approaches like a perimeter ordinace. I have asked Gary for help on stuff before and if an ordinance is feasible I would bet he'd help.

Re: FROM P-T: O’DONNELL RUNS (HIS MOUTH) UNOPPOSED | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:10:10 -0000

I don't always agree with O'donnell's viewpoints but on that I have to give him credit. The most important thing the city can do right now is fix our infrastructure. I'm glad the officials are finally at least looking at some real solutions.

Re: COUNCIL’S TAX GIVEAWAYS SHRINK BENEFIT OF NEW BEST BUY, RESIDENCE INN | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 18:41:38 -0000

This is a symptom of a larger problem. Long Beach will never bring in the retailers downtown until it abandons the objective of affordable housing. We need to get our average income up. Continual pushes to add affordable housing downtown really hurt. The high end condos along Ocean are great, but we need to see some of that wealth north of third as well.

As for the Best Buy in Marina Pacifica, I agree it doesn't make sense. Seems like given the average income in that area we should be able to get Best Buy to pay full price.

Re: JOIN ‘SAVE THE PRESS-TELEGRAM’ FORCES AT CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 17:30:11 -0000

better yet, why don't they take that money and repave my street

Re: SPORTS: MONSON GIVES LBSU HOOPS HOPE | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:37:59 -0000

Monson was the guy who architected Gonzaga as well. So he knows how to get a mid-major going in the right direction. I think he'll get LBSU to be consistently challenging for the big west title and ncaa tourney team just like Seth Greenberg did when he was coach.

Re: PIKE LAND SWAP GETS STINK-EYE FROM STATE | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:40:46 -0000

If the city is forced to remove the movie theatre and arcade, it may be an opportunity to re-negotiate with the developer. The developer never delivered on the retail clients it promised. This may be an opening to put some pressure on them.

Re: PORT TRUCK DRIVERS TO MAYOR FOSTER AND COUNCIL: DRIVE A MILE IN MY RIG

LB Resident — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 18:01:44 -0000

Foster is doing the right thing by standing up to the unions. We can get the polluting trucks off the street and clean the air without forcing everyone into a union.

Re: O, HOW HAPPY WE WILL BE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:59:29 -0000

I would love to see this happen. I'm in my 30's and I don't believe it will in my lifetime. It would take senior people at the city, at the port, and in congress to all get behind this. Maybe we have a couple councilmembers interested but not the right ones. It would require the 3rd District (currently DeLong) to back it and he won't because the Peninsula residents are terrified of losing their houses in a storm.

Re: DOWNTOWN L.A. CONDO SLUMP: PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS?

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:21:23 -0000

I think the condo market in LB will struggle along with the entire real estate market. But downtown LA has much bigger challenges than LB. For example, LB is cleaner, nicer, already has some restaraunts and nightlife and has a beach. We've also got less of a homeless problem. We'd like a cleaner beach,less homeless, and we'd like more retail, but we're miles ahead of downtown LA.

Re: O, HOW HAPPY WE WILL BE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 19:02:56 -0000

I think downtown trying to be like Seal Beach isn't practical or desirable. But having an atmosphere like Santa Monica only better is. Urban with a beach would be a very good result that would set us apart.

Re: COUNCIL TELLS SEX OFFENDERS WHERE TO (NOT) GO | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 19:12:15 -0000

If that is correct Michael, that is great.

Re: O, HOW HAPPY WE WILL BE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:30:27 -0000

This is off topic a bit. Don't care. I live in East LB (one of the waterfront areas a lot of you hate so much.) I pretty much never go downtown. You know what would get me downtown, spending money, etc. A Nordstroms. Why this hasn't happened I don't know. I realize the area has a lot of low income residents. But I would prefer to go downtown than drive to South Coast. I just have no reason to. Just had to rant for a second...

Re: O, HOW HAPPY WE WILL BE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 14:08:24 -0000

Not a joke. I think it's also a bit of chicken and egg. If there was a Nordstrom, people would shop there. That would lead to other shops. That would make it more desirable to live there. We have the high end condos. We need the retail.

Re: O, HOW HAPPY WE WILL BE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:22:51 -0000

Actually I'd love the future of downtown LB to be one without homeless, illegals and poor people.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 18:51:53 -0000

They are both awful.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 23:34:18 -0000

I think they are both awful because they are incredibly beholden to special interest groups, particularly unions, and it shows in their votes. They also are strong supporters of affordable housing. I think that is harmful longterm to neighborhoods, especially in distircts like the ones they represent. They are also strong supporters for city funded social services. I don't believe things like daycare are a government responsibility, particularly in a city and at a time when our streets are filled with potholes and we don' have enough police. I could go on but you get my perspective.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 11:44:53 -0000

I don't advocate being beholden to any special interests, including corporations.

Housing isn't affordable to the lucky few. It's affordable to those who work hard and make smart choices in their lives.

Anyone who wants healthcare can have it if they priortize their life.

Unions do serve a purpose in some industries but often times they hurt the very people they supposedly help. A good example is the teacher's union.

Assume a little personal accountability and stop complaining because you don't get Presidents Day off. .

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:06:37 -0000

I agree. The math doesn't work out. But I disagree with the premise of your argument. Homeownership isn't a right. Some people will be renters. That's Okay.

The teachers union consistently implements policies that encourage teachers to do one thing and that is stay employed until tenure. And that is pretty easy to do given the current rules. There are no incentives for performance. Who gets hurt? Good teachers and students. It is next to impossible to get rid of a bad teacher. There are lots of good teachers who work hard, but they do so because they love what they do not because of the structure the union has created.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:08:09 -0000

I am arguing against government subsidized housing. It hurts neighborhoods and is not the job of government anyway.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 16:50:23 -0000

Rachel, I never said I was awesome. You don't have to be awesome to be able to afford a place to live. You just need to not do drugs, finish high school, get a part time job at McDonalds while in high school, refrain from having children until you are 21, can afford them and are married. Those are not that difficult to achieve. And just about anyone who follows that path will be able to afford a good place to rent.

Kelson, homeownership rates should be a function of the market, not government.

I agree a union should not do management's job. But any time there is an effort to put pay for performance incentives in a contract, the union fights it.

As far as being hard to fire someone, that is subjective. I just think it shouldn't be harder to fire teachers than any other profession. There are plenty of good teachers that are upset that they will always make the same amount of money as a teacher who is only in the profession for the summers off.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 17:39:15 -0000

Government's job is to provide security and infrastructure. That really is it. If Wall St. dumps equity into real estate they do so at their own risk / reward. See Bear Stearns this past week. Bubbles happen, and pop. That doesn't mean government should get involved. The little guy can protect himself. Don't buy a house you can't afford and don't buy a house with a mortgage on bad terms.

Who is this management your refer to? There are good companies and bad and management is good at some and bad at some. If you think management is bad in the school system, fine. Let's work on that. But the way to fix that problem isn't by creating a huge beuracratic union that hurts good teachers and children. And don't get me started on the teacher's union fight against vouchers.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 19:19:00 -0000

You said government's job was to protect the little guy. I disagreed. I think the job of government is roads, fire, police, etc.

Homes are unaffordable right now because there are more people that want to buy than available houses. It's just supply and demand. Affordability has gotten better as the speculators have moved on during the recent bubble burst. But, longer term, as long as population growth outpaces new housing units, homes will continue to become less affordable. If you want to make homes more affordable we're going to have to build a lot more houses or hope population growth slows a lot.

The above is compounded in southern california because a lot of the cities are already built out. Screwing with the market fundamentals only makes it worse.

At the end of the day, some people will buy, some people will rent. But everyone has the opportunity to live in a clean, decent place. They just need to prioritize and make non-stupid decisions. I am not rich. But I do have a decent place to live. I just don't have a flat screen tv. I don't wear a lot of designer clothes. And I don't have 4 children.

Re: LOWENTHAL FALLS TWO VOTES SHY OF ENDORSEMENT IN ASSEMBLY RACE AGAINST REYES URANGA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 11:58:36 -0000

The share price went from $130 to $2 in a year. I don't call that a bail out. If you were a shareholder, you got hurt, badly.

Re: END CITY HALL’S NEWSPAPER SUBSIDY | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 19:13:11 -0000

You may be sexier, I've never seen any of you. Smarter, well on some issues you are in my opinion. But on loyalty, I'll with hold judgement for a few years. You're trying to make some money off Long Beach news. That's great. I don't fault you for it. I encourage it. But you certainly benefit from a little controversy and aren't necessarily a beneficiary of Long Beach success. Given that your orgs business is in OC and you live in OC, time will tell before I name you most loyal. The PT has many faults and appears to be sinking lower, but they have been around awhile and certainly have demonstrated loyalty to LB's interests in more than a few occasions in the past 80 some odd years.

Re: END CITY HALL’S NEWSPAPER SUBSIDY | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:15:46 -0000

"The PT is not printed, managed, composed, or edited in Long Beach."

Is the District printed, managed, composed or edited in LB? I am asking not commenting. I really don't know. My guess is most of the managing and editing is done out of the owner's Irvine house / office. Don't know though...

Re: PAT BUCHANAN FED UP WITH UNGRATEFUL NEGROES | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 16:31:52 -0000

"Hear that Long Beach? Blacks are hustlers! Criminals! Underachievers! Stubbornly insistent on remaining poor! Rapists! Ungrateful to boot!"

You come to the above conclusion but I didn't read that in any of the quotes from Pat B.

Are his actual comments you quoted from him false? Did he make innacurate statements?

Re: PAT BUCHANAN FED UP WITH UNGRATEFUL NEGROES | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 14:08:26 -0000

He may be all of those things. I don't know much about him. My point was that I didn't come to the conclusion you did simply from the quotes you referenced. Seemed like he was implying given all the opportunities all people have in America today it's innapropriate to paint an entire segment of society as a victim.

Re: PAT BUCHANAN FED UP WITH UNGRATEFUL NEGROES | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 23:35:03 -0000

Rachel I see your point. His position could be communicated more effectively with better messaging. Your paragraph above is a good example.

Re: PAT BUCHANAN FED UP WITH UNGRATEFUL NEGROES | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:56:43 -0000

White people do not make more than black people when apples to apples are compared. That's a broad statement. Are you suggesting that is for every job. Waiters, union electricians, CEOs, athletes? It really annoys me to hear those type of victim statements.

Poor neighborhoods have higher crime rates because the neighborhoods have more criminals.

Re: CHAMBER’S GORDON LOSES ELLIS RECALL BID–BUT STILL ‘THE MAYOR’ | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 13:27:13 -0000

In the event that the harmful teacher union candidates were to win and form a majority on the board, it was a good thing someone was focussed on recalling Ellis. It's a moot point now. Good prevailed.

Re: CHAMBER’S GORDON LOSES ELLIS RECALL BID–BUT STILL ‘THE MAYOR’ | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 16:26:55 -0000

For me this isn't about the PT. It isn't really even about the chamber. They do some good things for the city and some things that are not so good.

What this is about is not letting the teacher's union control the school board. We don't want to end up like LAUSD. We are fortunate to have a school district that for the most part is run well. If anything we need to move further away from the teacher union influence. Things like pay for performance, vouchers, and other "choice" based initiatives would be helpful for our kids but they can never happen if the union is controlling things.

Re: CHAMBER’S GORDON LOSES ELLIS RECALL BID–BUT STILL ‘THE MAYOR’ | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 22:07:40 -0000

John, choice leads to competition. Competition leads to improvement. Accountability also leads to improvement. Currently, teachers are not held accountable and there is no competition. That said, a lot of teacher's are good and the reasons for poor student performance are driven much more by absent or non-caring parents than anything else.

Re: CHAMBER’S GORDON LOSES ELLIS RECALL BID–BUT STILL ‘THE MAYOR’ | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:54:45 -0000

I don't know whether it sounds canned or not but I believe the union is not only bad for students, it is bad for good teachers. Why good teachers support a structure that pays them the same as bad teachers I will never understand.

Regardless, I'm glad we agree that the real source of our educational problems is bad parents. Parents who value education have children who value education.

Re: DOMINGUEZ GAP WETLANDS: MOTHER NATURE WOULDA LOVED THEM | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:46:06 -0000

Honestly that is infuriating. All of them and their parents should be fined on the first offense. Tagging really is one of the most unacceptable, disrespectful crimes.

Re: COUNCIL’S BAD JUDGEMENT IN HOME DEPOT PROJECT PAYS OFF, KINDA | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 14 May 2008 12:25:05 -0000

The site doesn't have to have a home depot on it. But please tell me what should go on that site? Be realistic, as it has to generate enough money for the property owner to cover the cost of cleaning up the degraded land.

Re: BOND, CONSTRUCTION BOND | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:57:44 -0000

This bond must be proposed and passed. It is the single greatest opportunity for Long Beach. It's not as sexy as the breakwater or wetlands or even hiring police, but It will dramatically improve quality of life for residents and improve the business climate. People and companies don't want to be in a place that looks like the third world. It will even help public safety as people take more pride in their city. I really hope the people of Long Beach seize this and get behind an infrastructure bond. I am about as conservative as they come but this is a tax I can support.

Re: BOND, CONSTRUCTION BOND | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 21 May 2008 23:44:57 -0000

Actually I agree sort of. There should be spending cuts so that the only thing funded is public safety and infrastructure. We'll still need the bond though to get where we need to be. Yes we have wasted money on a bunch of things that are not government's responsibility over the years but we are where we are and the reality is LB sorely needs this bond. So yes, cut everything except public safety and infrastructure. And then pass the bond.

Re: DON’T LIVE SO LONG | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:45:35 -0000

Say what you want about DeLong, he is a very good person to be leading the city's budgeting process. Public safety and infrastructure. Let's hope he is able to keep that vision.

Re: DON’T LIVE SO LONG | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:02:59 -0000

I guess it depends on who you talk to. I know lots of people who support the bond. Infrastructure is the number 1 problem for many in LB and it's about time we spend some money to fix it. In conjunction, we need to cut spending on everything that isn't infrastructure or public safety.

Re: DON’T LIVE SO LONG | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:55:57 -0000

I'm well aware of the bad decisions that got us where we are. I already said let's cut the dumb things we spend money on like subsidized housing, daycare, etc.

But we still need our infrastructure fixed. How will that happen in my lifetime without the bond?

Re: DEMOLITION TODAY OF SOME BUILDINGS NEXT TO ACRES OF BOOKS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:09:44 -0000

poodle finkerstein, fortunately I think the homeless will eventually move out of downtown so your scenario won't come true. I'm actually pretty optimistic that the demographic in downtown is changing (driven mostly by these higher end residential developments). It's not as fast as some would like but we are getting there. The next step is better retail to serve the changing demographic.

Re: DEMOLITION TODAY OF SOME BUILDINGS NEXT TO ACRES OF BOOKS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:56:24 -0000

Andy, the Irvine comment is unfair. Just because people want to see downtown classed up a bit does not mean they want Irvine. Irvine sucks and we all agree about that. But higher end condos, retail and the people that go along with it doesn't have to be sterile and boring like Irvine. There are homeless and crappy people in SF but you don't pay as much attention because it's in moderation and there is also a good mix of high end stuff. Yes, true urban environments have some of the problems mentioned above but there is a medium. We've got the crappy stuff. Now let's continue to work in some of the nicer stuff.

And as far as LB not getting mega mansioned, you clearly haven't spent time in Belmont Heights, Naples, or the Peninsula. Plenty of mega mansions going up there.

Re: DEMOLITION TODAY OF SOME BUILDINGS NEXT TO ACRES OF BOOKS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 16:04:49 -0000

You're right. No opportunity or access to anything in America. Free education, free emergency rooms, food stamps. Freedom to start any business you'd like. Absolutely correct. It's a wonder anyone can survive in this country. The reason people struggle has nothing to do with poor choices they've made.

Re: DEMOLITION TODAY OF SOME BUILDINGS NEXT TO ACRES OF BOOKS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:03:56 -0000

We all struggle at times. My objection was to your claim that people have limited opportunity. The fact that one lives in this great country means you have unlimited opportunity.

It's not that hard to stay out of poverty. If you don't do drugs, get a part time job in high school to start building a network, graduate from high school, and refrain from having children until you're married (ideally after age 25), there is an overwhelming liklihood that you won't be struggling in poverty. You may not be wealthy, but you'll get by just fine.

So yes, some are born on third base and some are born on first, but we All have the opportunity to get home if we make relatively easy choices.

Re: THE BIRD CAGE | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:23:39 -0000

You should read the story about the breakwater on lbpost and lbreport. There is some hope. Even Gary DeLong and some Peninsula residents are open to a new approach (reduce 1800 ft to sea level) that may be cheaper and quicker than a full blown reconfiguration.

Re: THE SEVEN NASTY THINGS COMMISSIONER KURT SCHNEITER WROTE TO A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:59:00 -0000

2nd Street success is important to LB. It is important to keep the parking revenue spent in the Shore. And from my outside opinion, the street seems successful. What is it exactly that the commission does that negatively impacts the residents of Belmont Shore? I've read they use the parking revenue to beautify the street, clean up, and hold events that most enjoy. Why are they so evil again?

Re: THE SEVEN NASTY THINGS COMMISSIONER KURT SCHNEITER WROTE TO A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:29:00 -0000

There is enough re-distribution of tax dollars from East LB to the rest of LB. I think we can let Belmont Shore keep the funds. And I don't even live in Belmont Shore...

Re: THE SEVEN NASTY THINGS COMMISSIONER KURT SCHNEITER WROTE TO A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:24:47 -0000

A healthy, nice 2nd Street improves quality of life for residents and is good for the city. It also increases property values for residential properties in the Shore. Taking the parking revenue away does not enable a healthy, nice 2nd Street. Money spent in the Shore should be used in the Shore.

We have enough redistribution of tax dollars from the people who pay it (mostly eastside residents) to the people who don't pay it. As mentioned above, much of it ends up in the redevelopment zone which is total disconnect from those funding the projects.

Re: THE SEVEN NASTY THINGS COMMISSIONER KURT SCHNEITER WROTE TO A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:32:35 -0000

The subsidizing of property has been used on sidewalks, street medians, alleys, and other things that enhance the overall public area and benefit the residents too. Again, money generated in belmont shore should be spent there.

If you want your streets fixed tell your council to stop spending money on daycare, health services, and affordable housing. This isn't Europe. I agree let's fix our infrastructure.

Re: MAYOR FOSTER AND HIS INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:57:45 -0000

I live in Naples and even though because I live in Naples I pay more than my fair share of property taxes compared to people in other areas of the city I would still support this proposal. Infrastructure is the number one problem in this city and so far I haven't heard a single, realistic alternative. Thank you mayor for taking this problem seriously.

Re: COUNCIL APPROVES PUTTING PARCEL TAX ON NOVEMBER BALLOT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:19:10 -0000

This is not about rewarding or punishing our gov't. Voting this down doesn't punish gov't. It just makes it so my street and sidewalk look like crap for another 50 years. (Foster, DeLong, etc. had nothing to do with past councils who got us into this position anyway.)

The facts:
1. Infrastructure is our gov't top priority next to public safety
2. Our infrastructure is awful
3. Waiting to fix our infrastructure will only make fixing it more expensive

There is no other viable way to fix our infrastructure. I am very conservative. I would support cutting everything in our gov't except public safety and infrastructure. The fact remains even if we did that (never would happen with the liberals on the council and many residents) we would not have enough money to pay for what we need. You can talk about pensions, salary increases and all the other rhetoric. The fact remains this is the only viable way to fix our infrastructure in an acceptable timeframe.

Passing this bond will improve resident quality of life, increase property values, and bring more quality residents and businesses to our city.

I support this bond and hope everyone else will help make Long Beach great by passing this bond.

Re: COUNCIL APPROVES PUTTING PARCEL TAX ON NOVEMBER BALLOT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:32:24 -0000

Juan, fixing streets and sidewalks, adding stormdrains to clean beaches, and beautify parks and wetlands absolutely will change the perception of Long Beach. You apparently have some history with the politicians of LB. But you don't live here anymore. You have an axe to grind. We have a city that we live in every day to fix. Our quality of life is important. Yes, past councils made mistakes. Yes, a new tax isn't great. Yes, infrastructure should be paid for as you go with current revenue. But we live in the real world. And the reality this bond is the viable option. For many of us who live here we're willing to shell out 10 bucks a month for a city makeover.

Re: COUNCIL APPROVES PUTTING PARCEL TAX ON NOVEMBER BALLOT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:27:52 -0000

Good Gov't 4 All, even for a crazy liberal that is a lot of conspiracy theories. :)

To dispel one of the the conspiracies, I assure you I am not who you think nor do I know personally any of the people you referenced.

I am just a normal guy with a family. I work hard for a living and want this city to be great. I chose to raise my family here for a number of reasons but I'd like to see the infrastructure substantially improved. I'm not rich, but for 10 bucks a month I think we're getting a lot.

I agree with many of the bond opposers that this is not a perfect plan and we should do all the other cost cutting things mentioned as well. (After all, I am a conservative and generally believe in small gov't.)

However, this bond is a viable way to take care of (in my opinion) Long Beach's number 1 issue in an acceptable timeframe. For that reason, I'm going to act like a liberal for once and support a tax increase.

Re: POLICE PROBE BUS ARREST, CAPTURED ON VIDEO | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 16:11:31 -0000

Let's see, flick off a cop and your surprised at the reaction. It's just like that idiot family that wants to sue because the guy tried to rob an apt and he ended up dying. If these idiots would just act like decent human beings and responsible citizens. But no, it's the police's fault I broke the law and trouble finds me not the other way around...

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:57:55 -0000

The wetlands trust group is not a good barometer for community sentiment. They will oppose any development.

The homeowners in belmont shore, naples, and the peninsula (i.e. the folks most affected by development in the area) almost universally agree something needs to be done with the existing property.

Generally speaking any viable development will have increased traffic. So that isn't the issue. The question is what do we get in return. Will we get high end retail so we don't have to drive to South Coast? Will we get a botique hotel so our visiting family and friends finally have a decent place to stay? Will the developer beautify the gateways into the area? Will the developer mitigate traffic in meaningful ways?

If the answers to the above are yes then I think a lot of people are open to giving a bit on the seadip plan from the 70s. 12 stories probably won't fly but I imagine a compromise can be achieved.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:33:04 -0000

For Juan and those that think high end retail isn't going to happen consider that the median income in 90803 is $104,000. That's for a 50,000 population and doesn't even consider nearby seal beach who's median income is just under 100k. Also, at the Nordstrom in fashion island, 10% of sales is from 90803.

There is plenty of draw for high end retail if there was a place to put it.

Re: PAIN IN THE ASPHALT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:00:14 -0000

2nd St. in Belmont Shore continues to be a popular, successful, district. Much of this is because of the money spent on sidewalk widening, landscaping improvements, etc. This is another effort to improve the asethics and will benefit everyone who visits and lives in the Shore, not just the business owners.

The District is a great opportunity for critically investigating the happenings in Long Beach. But lately the articles and in particular the reader postings have become such a liberal, whine fest of conspiracy theories that it is hard to take it seriously. I really hope The District continues to investigate and report but pull back a little on the bias and belief that everything is a conspiracy driven by "evil rich people" meant to attack the poor working folk.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:57:24 -0000

I'm not doing an entire analysis for you Juan. I was giving you one data point. Consider the 200,000 people in east long beach with an average income of over $70k plus seal and the fact that a good development would draw from even outside lb and seal and it's not too hard to figure it out. There are valid reasons to think this project doesn't make sense but the lack of demographics to bring in high end retail is not one of them.

This is not meant to be flippant, but I really wonder why someone who doesn't live in Long Beach has such a vested interest in issues (infrastructure bond, local developments, belmont shore parking commission, etc.) critical to those living here. You have every right to comment but it's hard to believe you have the right perspective considering you don't benefit or suffer from the actions pursued.

Re: PAIN IN THE ASPHALT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:20:18 -0000

I don't think there is a problem of bringing up the issue (you or Foster). I was more commenting about the characterization of the business owners. There is a tone in the article. It's ok as you have a reader base that it resonates with. I just think it's pushing the envelope. Who cares though it's just one man's opinion...

Re: PAIN IN THE ASPHALT | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:35:56 -0000

Actually as a resident I think I benefit a lot from these improvements.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:46:18 -0000

Juan, there is a difference between value of real estate (your 90802 example) and high incomes (like in 90803). Real estate can't buy things but incomes can.

I didn't say Neiman Marcus. Obviously that is too big for the site. But how about Brooks Brothers or smaller high end boutiques?

And people drive to Cerritos because they can't drive to LB because there is nothing to drive to.

And yes you do have the right to exercise your freedom of speech. I said as much. I guess I just wonder why you don't do it on issues in your own town. Since you don't have to deal with the crappy infrastructure, lack of high end retail, etc. that we all do on a daily basis, it's a bit disingenuous to encourage people to vote against anything that might actually make some positive changes.

Naples Resident has it right. The naysayers never have anything constructive to say. They just try to kill everything and anything.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:02:35 -0000

surfer meg I wasn't drawing a distinction between high end and specialty. fundamentally I think the property would do well with the stores you listed. I don't think high end and specialty have to be mutually exlcusive.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 19:17:40 -0000

Juan, your last post was rational. But basically the theme is "LB has screwed up so many times I don't want to give them another chance." The problem wih that is that you remove any opportunity for bettering our community. Why not let this process play out, demand as residents the amenities, etc. we want, and if we don't get it in the builder's contract, we don't support it and the project never gets built. That is what happened with Lennar. They wouldn't pony up or compromise and they didn't get their project.

At least for this new development team they seem to be listening. It may be a small concession but at least it's heading in the right direction that they have reduced the condo amount from what Lennar proposed by 100 condos. My bet is they don't end up proposing a 12 story building but rather 1 tower with a height of 6. Maybe some can live with that.. The wetlands trust folks can't but they are the minority (I believe). All I'm saying is let the thing progress a little before we say LB could never bring in quality retail, build a nice looking building, etc. Don't defeat the thing before the game is in the first quarter.

Maybe you haven't been here in awhile but East Long Beach has a very strong retail demographic these days without an East Long Beach shopping option. Your contention that the area can't support it is false in my opinion.

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:28:57 -0000

Your facts are outdated. They cut the total living spaces to 325. We'll see what happens with height. Negotiation works better than outright opposition to everything without talking...

Re: 2ND+PCH PROJECT WILL SEEK PERMISSION TO IGNORE ZONING LAWS | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:59:31 -0000

I'm not a developer nor am I affiliated in any way with one. I'm a homeowner in the area who would like to see the area beautified, high end retail, and a boutique hotel in the area. I guess I'm just open to hearing the developer's proposal and seeing if there is promise.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS VS. THE HOSPITALITY ALLIANCE: SOME OF THE NUMBERS

LB Resident — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 20:31:00 -0000

This debate is such a red herring. The issue is these jobs are not meant to be careers where people raise a family of four. They are transitional jobs for people to make a little money while they improve their skills and then go get a better paying job. Unionize or don't unionize, the people who work in these jobs are going to be poor.

I saw one of the women testify at a council meeting a few weeks ago on TV regarding this issue. She complained that she made $10 / hour after 10 years of working at the hotel. She complained in Spanish. Really, if you live in the country for 10 years and don't bother to learn English at a minimum let alone other skills, it's tough to get behind a push for higher wages. Take a little responsibility for yourself.

Also to the article's welfare point, the city shouldn't be bailing people out with "public assistance" either. If we want to be a great city we need to start acting like one. Importing poverty by handing out welfare subsidies is not productive.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS VS. THE HOSPITALITY ALLIANCE: SOME OF THE NUMBERS

LB Resident — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:33:03 -0000

Kelson did you even read what I wrote?

I don't expect an overly articulate testimony. All I asked is after 10 years of being in the country that you learn English.

And I didn't say anything about manufacturing jobs. Any one of these hotel workers could learn English and be a waiter and earn substantially more than $10/hour.

Let them form a union. I don't care. It won't help them in a material way. Great. Maybe they get a poor healthcare plan and a bump to $13/hour. They will still be poor with no upside. The real problem is they don't have skills. We live in America where anyone who tries and doesn't make devestating decisions (like doing drugs, having a bunch of kids, etc.) can have a life above poverty.

Re: MAIN LIBRARY NOT WORTH $10 MILLION IN REPAIRS? WHAT ABOUT $3 MILLION? | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:46:44 -0000

Our library? I wonder how many people use the library? I really don't know. Maybe it's a lot. It does seem that when I've been there it has looked more like a place for the homeless to wash up than a place of thousands of children reading. No sarcasm so please don't blast...

Re: MAIN LIBRARY NOT WORTH $10 MILLION IN REPAIRS? WHAT ABOUT $3 MILLION? | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:57:03 -0000

Theo, I don't think the Main library in its current form and location accomplish what you assert.

I think we should have library services and that they should be accessible to everyone in the city. I'm not sure this requires "main" library though.

Do we need a library downtown? We need the services but I think the existing building is a nice to have considering our budget. If we can save some money by closing Main yet still provide library services to the people downtown I think it is something we should consider.

And I do think Main is poorly located (as is city hall). I'd love to see those buildings moved and the homeless camp eliminated.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS VS. THE HOSPITALITY ALLIANCE: SOME OF THE NUMBERS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:05:57 -0000

Soap Box alert...

To think that many of the hotel workers are illegal aliens is reasonable. To think otherwise seems a bit naive to me. Further, I think in most Americans' opinion there should be priority of services, etc. for citizens vs. illegal aliens.

That all said, the issue here remains that these jobs we're talking about aren't careers. They are transitional jobs that enable people a little income until they improve their skills. At a minimum all that means is learning English.

I worked at a local restaraunt about 15 years ago when I was in college. I knew a guy there (about 16 at the time) who didn't speak very good Enlish. He was a bus boy. A hard job that didn't pay well. Amazingly I saw him bartending at the Queen Mary a couple weeks ago at a wedding. Hadn't seen him in 15 years. We remembered eachother and I asked him how things we're going. He had learned English very well. He said he had been bartending for awhile and that it "sure beat being a bus boy". The guy probably tripled his income by simply learning English. I then walked down one of the hallways in the hotel and asked how to get somewhere to one of the maids. She responded in Spanish that she didn't speak English. I wonder if she'll learn English. I wonder if she will triple her income some day.

I'm not adopting a stance of writing off an entire class of people. I do believe in letting market forces work. That aside, I just think the way to improve lives is to enact an environment that rewards effort. Handing everyone a "living wage" encourages people to be content with a sub-standard life.

All of these handouts like affordable housing subsidies, etc. are not helping. People need to stop having kids they can't afford. People need to do the basics. Graduate from high school. Don't take drugs. These aren't hard things no matter what environment you grow up in. Long Beach needs to stop handing out all these subsidies and stop importing poverty. We need to fix our roads, clean up our parks and beaches. These are the things that make a city great and make people want to move here. Pass the bond! How's that for a soap box...

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:03:50 -0000

Taxes are never fair. For crying out loud our next likely president thinks your reward for making good choices and doing well in life should be higher tax rates. He wants to give a "rebate" to the 35% of Americans that don't pay any taxes at all.

That said, this parcel tax exempts the elderly because many are on fixed income not because they have plenty of money.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:53:57 -0000

No kidding. That's why rebate is in quotes and why Obama's 95% of Americans will get a tax cut claim is false. It's welfare, not tax cuts.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:55:38 -0000

This is not true. Seniors would be exempt. I think what you're referring to is for forming assessment districts which is different than a parcel tax.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:46:01 -0000

Gee Gerrie, I wonder if that has anything to do with your negative attitude toward this and every other proposal. I also wonder if your subset is truly representative.

I credit you for being creative over the past year and your willingness to challenge status quo. We need more of that on the council. But the truth is most of your proposals have been unworkable for different reasons. So now it looks like you win. The bond will likely fail and I'll have crappy streets and sidewalks and poor water quality for the next 20 years.

Nobody said this parcel tax was perfect. And I'm very Republican. I hate taxes especially when the money goes to unneeded social programs. But at the end of the day I want my frickin streets fixed and for 10 (or 30, whatever) bucks a month even if we got half of what is promised it would have been well worth it. It's the only realistic way I've seen to get the infrastructure fixes we need. Now I guess we'll waste 5 years coming up with a "Better" plan. The biggest problem facing our city remains unsolved.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 18:25:02 -0000

If we don't clean up our own pollution we'll never be able to force upstream cities to do so.

Diverting the LA River is a pipe dream. Let's spend time on reconfiguring a portion of the breakwater, cleaning our own pollution, and other more realistic options.

As for the bond, the money is guaranteed to go to infrastructure. It is true the specific projects aren't listed, but assume only half of the projects get completed. We get 75% of our streets and sidewalks fixed a number of water filters/drains upgraded and some enhancements to a few parks. Wouldn't that be worth the relatively small 10 bucks a month?

People that complain about this bond are mostly complaining about the process. There was no "public input". Those are the same people that would have said how dare the mayor bring a half baked idea to the table if he brought the public in from the beginning.

The truth is we have major infrastructure issues and it is hurting our home values. The economy sucks and we could use a facelift. The mayor has proposed a realistic way to solve a large part of the problem in a short time period for a relatively low fee. Vote yes on Measure I.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 21:04:12 -0000

The sidewalk budget is currently $3M and I think streets is even less. So even if they did divert money from the existing general fund budget (which they won't because voters would revolt) it just isn't that much money. There isn't any money in the budget for infrastructure. That's why it is falling apart. A better argument against the measure is that we should be taking the big ticket general fund expenses (employee salaries and pensions) and reducing them and spending the savings on infrastructure. In principle I agree (althought it's the pensions not the salaries I have a problem with specifically). But it's unrealistic to see that happen any time soon and I want stuff fixed now. So realisticlly, if you want short term infrastructure improvements, you have to vote for Measure I.

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 21:11:16 -0000

meant to say $3M per district (there are 9 of about 50k people each by the way)

Re: DEBATE OVER MAYOR’S PARCEL TAX GOES ONLINE

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 22:57:35 -0000

The property was owned by Bixby and they chose to sell it to Tom Dean. It is private property and that is their right and the city nor anyone else could have changed this. (By the way, the rumor was Bixby chose not to sell to the enviro folks because of the way the enviro folks acted throughout the years toward Bixby.)

Anyway, you enviro folks better not yet again cut your nose off to spite your face. So what if Tom Dean makes money if the net result is the city owns the wetlands and they get restored. Stop whining about what's fair and let's work toward the goal of getting the wetlands in the hands of the city and finally not looking like a degraded swamp even if the "hated" Tom Dean makes some money.

Measure I likely results in a purchase of the wetland from Dean (yes he makes some money) and they wetlands likely get restored. The alternative is 25 more years of an oil swamp. But at least things will be fair ...

Re: DID LB CITY COUNCIL KILL DOROTHY GREEN? NO, BUT IT’S EMBARRASSING US TO DEATH

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:38:41 -0000

The name is appropriate depending on where you live. Long Beach actually does offer many aquatic activities. The problem is perspective. If you live in East Long Beach, you enjoy relatively clean waters in Alamitos Bay, Marine Stadium, Mother's Beach, and even the ocean east of the pier down through the Peninsula. (Yes there are spills occasionally but generally many people are able to enjoy those waters.) With those clean waters comes sabots, kayaks, swimming, etc. If you live downtown you have awful water from the LA River pollution and the breakwater effect.

All that said, regardless of where you live, it's a great brand to strive to live up to. Let's reconfigure the breakwater and make all of Long Beach reflect our new title.

Re: FOSTER WON’T DEBATE, BUT EX-RDA BOARD MEMBER JENSEN STILL IN FOR PRESS CLUB’S MEASURE I FORUM

LB Resident — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:43:56 -0000

The parcel tax is not perfect but I believe the following to be true:

The money must be spent on infrastructure projects. A backfill scenario is possible but highly unlikely as it would result in significant backlash against the Mayor and council. Further the amount that could be backfilled is minimal.

The council (particularly DeLong) has worked to streamline gov't spending this year and eliminate waste and return to core services. Is there still room for improvement? Absolutely. Stopping the investment in subsidized low income housing is a particular pet peeve of mine, but they are moving in the right direction.

Both the Mayor and DeLong have said they will work to renegotiate pensions for city employees. This seems to be a significant sticking point for Measure I opponents.

The $10 / month amount will escalate but when inflation is accounted for it is not material. $35 or whatever it will be in 30 years is still not much considering the potential return.

There is no guarantee that all the projects will be completed but even if half of them were completed we would be a much better city, quality of life would drasticlly improve, and property values would rise.

Given the need is so great, and this measure would solve many of the problems now, not in 10 years when detractors are satisfied with pension reform, etc., measure I warrants passing.

Re: FROM LB Post: MAYOR’S ABSENCE AT MEASURE I DEBATE SPEAKS VOLUMES

LB Resident — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:34:22 -0000

I don't think he needs to debate. It's of no value to him or proponents. He makes his case all the time. Opponents make theirs. It's not like both side aren't known.

Re: LONG BEACH POLICE SEEK FOUR MEN IN BRUTAL DOWNTOWN ATTACK

LB Resident — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 16:15:42 -0000

The police need to start focussing on the small crimes (jaywalking, littering, smoking where it isn't permitted, etc.) We need to send a message that the law matters. New York did this and it cleaned up the city.

Additionally there finally needs to be a strategy to deal with the blue line element that gets shipped in. We've got enough home grown element. We don't need to import more.

Of course the liberals of our city will say this is not the way to approach crime downtown and so we'll continue see problems.

I don't live downtown but I sure wish it was a place to visit with my children. Sadly it isn't and it won't be until we get serious about the thugs.

Re: LONG BEACH POLICE SEEK FOUR MEN IN BRUTAL DOWNTOWN ATTACK

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:02:40 -0000

ie the thugs that arrive in our city via the blue line. People who are more focussed on causing trouble than spending money at local establishments. People I'd rather not see when I'm walking to my car after dinner with my wife and child. Now go ahead, accuse of being all sorts of terrible things.

Re: LONG BEACH POLICE SEEK FOUR MEN IN BRUTAL DOWNTOWN ATTACK

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:07:07 -0000

You need both. More officers and Measure I are desperately needed. The better a place looks the less crime. See NYC. Broken windows... YES ON I.

As an aside, I'll bet you a $5 dinner that DeLong gets elected again. He's been very responsive to the 3rd district and I think it's a small vocal minority that doesn't like him. Just my opinion. We'll see I guess.

Re: LOS ANGELES TIMES LOOKS AT MEASURE I

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:17:35 -0000

The detractors are opposed to the process and timing. They sound like children. "I wasn't invited to develop the plan so I'm not going to support it."

Everyone knows this work needs to be done and this a credible way to get it done now, not in 20 years for 5 times the cost.

Yes, the cpi adustment means it will be 25 bucks a month in 20 years instead of 10 bucks. That is how inflation works. Ultimately it is 10 bucks a month in today's dollars (time value of money).

I urge everyone to make long beach great and support Measure I.

Let's fix our streets, clean our water, and raise our property values now, not later. YES ON I

Re: LONG BEACH POLICE SEEK FOUR MEN IN BRUTAL DOWNTOWN ATTACK

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:20:09 -0000

There are plenty of cities without thugs. But keep that perspective and continue to see Pine struggle.

Re: LOS ANGELES TIMES LOOKS AT MEASURE I

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:04:29 -0000

The topic of Measure I has nothing to do with not identifying myself.

I don't agree with your $265M number nor do I agree there is another short term viable alternative. I also don't agree with the way you framed the argument.

Ultimately, passing measure I will result in a better of quality of life and increase property values for us all starting Jan 09. I only hope LB voters can think beyond some of the naysaying out there. I'm doubtful though. Our city has a way of shooting themselves in the foot when an opportunity presents itself.

Re: LONG BEACH POLICE SEEK FOUR MEN IN BRUTAL DOWNTOWN ATTACK

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:00:18 -0000

Get away from the golf course , yacht club, and Chamber? Who do you think is his constituency? There is a pretty strong correlation between 3rd district residents and members of the above orgs.

You may be right though. I could be living in a bubble.

Re: THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SURROUNDING THE MAYOR’S MEASURE-I TOUR

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:15:35 -0000

Crazy thought...could it be that the Mayor's proposal isn't as bad as some of the detractors would have you believe?

Re: THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SURROUNDING THE MAYOR’S MEASURE-I TOUR

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:12:36 -0000

I don't understand your post.

But as far as endorsements many of the groups you probably support (I assume due to previous pro-environmental posts) do support Measure I. They include Surfrider and Sierra.

Other than the Chamber (which DW readers hate) which prominent group or person doesn't support measure I? Even prominent people who have nothing to gain support measure I like former governor Deukmajan.

Detractors are pissed at the process. They didn't get enough say but the actual proposal has merit. It's not perfect but it's unrealistic to think that you could ever come up with somthing to totally satisfy everyone.

And I maintain if Foster came out with a strawman early on and asked for feedback he would have been blasted for bringing a "half baked" plan to the community.

YES ON I

Re: THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SURROUNDING THE MAYOR’S MEASURE-I TOUR

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:24:02 -0000

John, I read your posts a lot. I think you are articulate and well thought out most of the time. But I do disagree on this topic.

I hardly call a 10 year plan to fix infrastructure from streets to sewers to parks a short term band-aid.

Councils could raid existing money in the general fund but we're in the situation we're in now because there is hardly anything in the general fund budgeted for infrastructure. Besides the issue will always be a campaign issue from here out given the publicity of this measure. Hold future councils accountable. And don't punish Foster for sins of the past. He said increase the oil tax and I'll dedicate it to public safety. There was no raid. He kept his word.

You do owe it to your children. I'm probably closer to their age (no jokes) and I want my infrastructure fixed. I want to raise my children in LB but I won't if we don't get this quality of life thing under control. Measure I is a viable solution to make big improvements quick.

If someone had a realistic alternative, I'm all ears. But all I hear is reform pensions, write more language in the bill which will never be enough, and do public outreach. Have you been to a public outreach meeting on anything in this town? 10 people show up.

Be practical. Make Long Beach great now. VOTE YES ON I

Re: THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SURROUNDING THE MAYOR’S MEASURE-I TOUR

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:56:29 -0000

maybe I read a few posts and extrapolated unjustifyably.

Re: THE MAGIC AND MYSTERY SURROUNDING THE MAYOR’S MEASURE-I TOUR

LB Resident — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:54:56 -0000

Those are all projects from fed and state grant money. Residential streets and sidewalks are funded through the city. That's why Measure I is so important.

Potholes may not bother you but there is a directly link to property values, quality of life, etc. and infrastructure.

The tax is fair. Everyone pays the same. That's fair.

Re: IS DELONG TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY MEETING INTO ROHRABACHER CAMPAIGN STOP?

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:29:53 -0000

Gary did kill Lennar due to traffic and density. He will not support the new project either unless they reduce density and resolve traffic issues. I hope they were talking about killing the housing trust fund as well.

Re: IS DELONG TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY MEETING INTO ROHRABACHER CAMPAIGN STOP?

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:24:19 -0000

I don't claim to know much. I asked Gary what happened. He said Lennar couldn't make the traffic plan work and so he didn't support it. That's all I know.

I'm not going to war with anyone. I'm just a guy who lives in the neighborhood who tries to make his community better for his family.

Really, the amount of conspiracy theories you promote on this site are quite humorous.

Re: A TORTOISE, A HANKLA AND AN ICE CREAM MAN, OH MY!

LB Resident — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:51:22 -0000

#3 - If you live in the neighborhoods the Gazette targets (Naples, the Shore, Belmont Heights, the Peninsula, etc)., Long Beach can feel like a small town. Even today. Many like it that way and the Gazette simply reflects that. Actually, Long Beach is a big city but because it is made up of unique, distinct neighborhoods, it retains some small town charm.

#11 - It was either Petco or Best Buy for the Marina Pacifica spot. Petco was willing to pay higher rent than Best Buy. The city paid the difference so the owner of the property would choose Best Buy. The result is the city gets more revenue even after the subsidy. How can you think that was unwise?

Giving a loan to a key business so it could once again drive foot traffic for other shops on 2nd Street is bad why? Are you afraid he won't pay the loan's principle plus interest back?

Measure I will fix what's wrong with this city. It's infrastructure. Yes, money has been spent on unneeded programs but that is hardly DeLong's fault. He has led the charge to return to core services which are public safety and infrastructure. (Hopefully next council meeting he'll continue this effort and squash any attempt to put tax money into a low income housing trust.) I know it's unlikely but I keep hope that this city will VOTE YES ON I.

Let's be clear, the conservatives have failed over the last 8 years because they've spent too much money and acted like drunken liberals. Socialism my friend is taxing folks who work and earn and then giving that money do those who don't pay taxes. Can you say Obama?

I realize the DW is a liberal media outlet and I appreciate its perspective on Long Beach. But let's at least fake a little balance. I try to. I'm a conservative but am voting to tax myself by voting YES on I.

Re: IS DELONG TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY MEETING INTO ROHRABACHER CAMPAIGN STOP?

LB Resident — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:07:17 -0000

Unlikely. The majority of the district is in HB. That's one of the reasons Dana is so unresponsive to the needs of LB.

Re: MEMORIAL TO REDUCE EMERGENCY SERVICES, HOSPITAL BEDS ON DAY OF THE DEAD

LB Resident — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:34:22 -0000

Thank you for providing another perspective to the DW report. Unfortunately the DW on many topics has been all too often not providing the whole story or telling the story with unfair color.

Re: IS DELONG TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY MEETING INTO ROHRABACHER CAMPAIGN STOP?

LB Resident — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 13:24:29 -0000

I think many people are happy with Gary's service and he will win re-election quite easily. In my personal dealings with him he has been more helpful and responsive than other council offices past and present.

Re: DISTRICT WEEKLY PUBLISHER HITS ROAD!

LB Resident — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 18:59:43 -0000

I don't know whether the paper is struggling financially but it wouldn't surprise me. All papers are and this one's target audience is narrowly focussed on only the most liberal part of the city.

Doesn't surprise me that Mr. Swaim is leaving either. He is not Long Beach. He does not live here and is not vested in the city other than this newspaper that I know of. Ironically, this paper depends on controversy within the city and not actually making it great.

The only constructive topic I've seen this paper take on is the breakwater. Everything else seems to be one conspiracy theory after another. A few eat it up but to me It is annoying because the journalists are actually very good at uncovering new topics and stories never coverd in the PT, etc.. That is why I read it. I just wish they could be presented in a less slanted way. This paper actually could be very successful as an alternative to the PT with a bit more unbiased reporting. I get that it is a liberal alternative but for example writing a top 10 list of most hated people is not helpful particularly when much of the data is distorted.

Re: DISTRICT WEEKLY PUBLISHER HITS ROAD!

LB Resident — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:55:10 -0000

A couple of points:

I think your pub makes the city better when you run stories on art, etc. AND when you write about issues nobody else dares take on. You hurt the city when you write those stories with a "point of view" but fail to provide the entire background or push the envelope on what is factual. For example, I think you should have included the perspective on why the council voted to approve the Best Buy subsidy. You positioned it as corporate "socialism" without explaining we would have had less net tax revenue without the subsidy. I don't want to argue the merits of the decision, I am just pointing out I think the story would have been better by at least including the other side. In the end, you wrote a piece that makes it seem like our council simply wants to give tax money away to businesses just for the sake of doing it. That is ridiculous and it hurts our city because it makes an already non-trusting community less trusting.

And to Coastal Advocate (our very own creative writing / conspiracy theorist), I've never contributed to DeLong's campaign much less participated on his campaign. I am not a member and have not been a member of the chamber either. Just because I have a different perspective than you doesn't mean I''m leading a charge against you. I know you think your enviro groups are accomplishing a lot, but if you would lose the chip, stop thinking everyone is out to destroy you and all things nature, and try to work with others and compromise maybe we can actually get some things done around here. LIKE RESTORING THE WETLANDS. How is that working for you? By my count, you've made zero progress.

Re: DISTRICT WEEKLY PUBLISHER HITS ROAD!

LB Resident — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:01:58 -0000

I guess fairness doesn't matter to DW. It does to me. I'll continue to read DW because I like exposure to the unique topics so I guess that you get what you want. More readers.

But I still assert if you at least tried to be a little more fair, your viewpoints would be credible, which would be additional value to your current value of bringing new topics into the spotlight.

The best buy example remains a valid criticism of your lack of fairness.

Re: HOW TO SAVE THE WETLANDS

LB Resident — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:04:42 -0000

Once again Delong is impressive. Hopefully he can pull this off.

And regarding Dean, did it ever occur to you that his purchases were not bad business deals at all and that this sort of thing was always his plan?

Re: HOW TO SAVE THE WETLANDS

LB Resident — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:08:36 -0000

No. The story claims he made bad business deals / decisions. I'm simply suggesting that may not be the case.

Re: HOW TO SAVE THE WETLANDS

LB Resident — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 11:40:31 -0000

I sure hope the enviro groups challenge their historic behavior and focus on positive outcomes not irrelevant distractions like how much money Dean makes. Let's get the wetlands acquired, restored, and finally clean up that embarrassment of a property. If Dean makes some money in the process so be it.

Kudos to delong for what looks like a viable plan.

Re: CITY OFFICIALS OUTLINE PARAMETERS OF PROPOSED PARKLAND-FOR-WETLANDS SWAP

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:48:59 -0000

Lots of short sighted comments. I guess that's why we've been looking at that degraded swamp for years.

I really hope Delong and the better minds prevail and this deal gets done so we can FINALLY improve the quality of life in our neighborhood.

"What's the rush?" My goodness is been over 20 years...

Re: CITY OFFICIALS OUTLINE PARAMETERS OF PROPOSED PARKLAND-FOR-WETLANDS SWAP

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:04:52 -0000

well said

Re: STUDEBAKER LLC APPLIES FOR PERMIT TO BUILD HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER ON EDGE OF WETLANDS–AGAIN

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 12:24:09 -0000

Regardless of your opinion on developing this site, the wetlands acquisition plan still seems promising.

I hope the enviros don't get so riled up about home depot part II that they kill the deal to acquire the wetlands. It would be yet another example of them shooting themselves in the foot.

I sometimes wonder if they really want to acquire and restore the wetlands. If they did, they wouldn't have a cause to fight for anymore. Not sure they could live with that.

Re: STUDEBAKER LLC APPLIES FOR PERMIT TO BUILD HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER ON EDGE OF WETLANDS–AGAIN

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:07:33 -0000

The court spoke to the validity of the EIR, not to the idea of developing the property.

Re: STUDEBAKER LLC APPLIES FOR PERMIT TO BUILD HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER ON EDGE OF WETLANDS–AGAIN

LB Resident — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 13:27:34 -0000

I think the barn is on fire depending on your perspective. There should be a sense of urgency on the part of the city and the citizens of Long Beach to accomplish the follwoing within 1 year:

1. Acquire the wetlands and beautify the perimeter of the entire property ASAP.
2. Begin the process of securing funding to restore the wetlands.
3. Approve whatever development the majority of the community wants (not simply the vocal enviromentalists) for the surrounding properties so that the area can be beautified.

Those of us who live here see the potential to raise property values and improve quality of life for everyone with smart development that is asethically pleasing and sensitive to the environment.

Re: STUDEBAKER LLC APPLIES FOR PERMIT TO BUILD HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER ON EDGE OF WETLANDS–AGAIN

LB Resident — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 12:25:49 -0000

great idea. Let's bargain really hard and have what always happens. Nothing gets done and we're still stuck with the swampy eyesore. Heaven forbid we work toward a compromise that results in improvement.

Re: OPINION: IS ROBERT GARCIA ANOTHER SUJA LOWENTHAL?

LB Resident — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:36:55 -0000

Republican or democrat, the guy seems to be saying the right things. Reconfigure the breakwater, restore a recreational beach, help downtown business / retail grow, and improve quality of life by addressing the homeless and crime issues. Sounds good to me.

Re: OPINION: IS ROBERT GARCIA ANOTHER SUJA LOWENTHAL?

LB Resident — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:11:51 -0000

I like him to begin reversing the damage done to the 1st district by Bonnie regarding low income housing and homeless services. Downtown can be a great place to live with proper leadership.

Re: OPINION: IS ROBERT GARCIA ANOTHER SUJA LOWENTHAL?

LB Resident — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 23:54:46 -0000

Wow. Your issue with Suja is that she doesn't want convicts grouped together in residential areas? If anything the watered down version of that ordinance we ended up with wasn't strong enough.

Re: NEW WETLANDS SWAP HEADED TO COUNCIL TUESDAY

LB Resident — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:19:01 -0000

Too bad we couldn't do the original deal. The sports park will never happen and it would have been great to get the entire wetlands. The vocal minority "wins" again.

Re: NEW WETLANDS SWAP HEADED TO COUNCIL TUESDAY

LB Resident — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:33:24 -0000

I want the wetlands restored because the property is currently a blight to my neighborhood. I'm in a hurry because I'm tired of looking at that disaster.

I don't go to your meetings because your groups are unproductive, naysaying, and take zero-sum approaches to problems that prevent solutions. There have been next to no accomplishments over the years.

I don't know Dean from boo, but I doubt he's worried about money problems.

Re: NEW WETLANDS SWAP HEADED TO COUNCIL TUESDAY

LB Resident — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:34:35 -0000

Good post.

Re: CAL STATE ARTISTS IN ACRES OF BOOKS BUILDING?

LB Resident — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:51:59 -0000

I hope this works out. Getting CSULB more integrated with downtown and the city as a whole is a good thing. And if art is the focus, even better.

Re: QUESTIONS FOR COUNCIL BEFORE APPROVING LAND SWAP WITH DEAN

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:01:00 -0000

Does anyone else think that the wetlands groups are not very helpful in aiding restoration of the wetlands? I do.

Re: NEW WETLANDS SWAP HEADED TO COUNCIL TUESDAY

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:17:46 -0000

You continue to see Delong and Dean as the enemy instead of potential partners. Emotion is prioritzed over logic in your approach. I don't know you but I hope you have relatively little influence over how this proceeds. Win Win negotiating is better than Win Lose.

Re: QUESTIONS FOR COUNCIL BEFORE APPROVING LAND SWAP WITH DEAN

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:54:38 -0000

They've been working for 10+ years and have nothing to show for it. I think it's because they fight with emotion with a win-lose approach. They had nothing to do with creating this opportunity before us now but are trying their best to kill it. I'm all for asking questions but it seems all they care about is making sure Tom Dean doesn't profit. I could care less if he makes a profit so long as we get the wetlands in the public domain within reasonable financial tolerance.

Re: QUESTIONS FOR COUNCIL BEFORE APPROVING LAND SWAP WITH DEAN

LB Resident — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:27:36 -0000

Great post.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:43:57 -0000

Pure propoganda. This is nothing but an attempt to grow unions. If you want to eliminate poverty in LB, do the following:

1. End affordable housing
2. End welfare subsidized services such as healthcare and childcare
3. Educate people that housekeeping jobs at hotels are not "pathways" to the middle class and shouldn't be. They are low wage jobs. If people want to be middle class they need to develop a skill set. Housekeeping jobs should be viewed as jobs to make ends meat until you can develop your skill set.

We can't continue offering up more homeless, welfare, housing services than any other surrounding city and then act surprised when poor people are drawn to the area.

As an aside, I remember watching the council meeting when they were talking about this living wage BS and a woman complained she had been working at a hotel downtown for 10 years and she only made $10/hour. She complained in SPANISH. You've been here 10 years and you haven't learned English and you have the arrogance to complain about your wages. Unbelievable.

Our problems are not because of the tourism we have invested in. They are because our council members are bought and paid for by unions and special interest groups and they make decisions with a socialist style agenda.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:11:15 -0000

The jobs are hard work. That doesn't haven't a correlation with pay. Pay is based on how unique the skill set is and how hard that skill set is to find/hire and how badly and employer needs it.

Doing 1,2,and 3 would at a minimum stop poverty from growing in LB and likely would decrease it. There will always be people who have bad luck, make bad decisions, or some combination. Long Beach is set up to attract those people. Other cities are not.

I don't expect everyone to go to school to get training to be middle class. But I expect anyone who wants to be middle class to make good decisions and prioritize making themselves marketable. Working in a hotel as a maid for 10 years is not nor should it be a path to being middle class. People need to have that expectation and act according to their goals.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:38:40 -0000

Long Beach has more poverty than it should. This is due to the magnets for poverty such as low income housing and social services that our city council has instituted.

I"m not playing the NIMBY game. I don't want this stuff anywhere (but especially my backyard). These are destructive programs that do not motivate people to strive to be their best.

Go ahead, use that yardstic. Kobe Bryant makes more money than Derek Fisher because he has a stronger skill set. Brad Pitt makes more money than other actors because he brings in more money for producers.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:40:28 -0000

English is the language of success in this country. If you live here for 10 years and don't bother to learn it, you can not justifyably complain about your wages.

Programs may be getting cut, but anyone who wants an education can get one. Stop making excuses for people and they'll stop making them for themselves.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:37:08 -0000

Are you implying that someone who was born here and knows English does not have the opportunity to get an education?

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 17:14:43 -0000

That is not the point I made. Nor do I agree with YOUR conclusion.

It is an economic fact that when government sets a minimum/living wage, ultimately the market adjusts and the articial wage does not accomplish what was intended.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:34:46 -0000

my reply was to Dave W. Somehow I mistakenly posted as if it were to you. Actually it seems we agree on many things.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:04:14 -0000

First, that isn't true. Union or no union, Kobe would be making lots of money. He has tons of leverage because he is arguably the best at what he does in the world and has a skillset that is not easily replaceable. The union is irrelevant.

Second, my point is not that unions prevent people from making money. My point is that unions largely result in environments where performance is not rewarded as much as tenure. (Ex. teacher's union. There is no incentive to be a good teacher. As long as you don't steal or moleste a kid you won't get fired and you will make as much money as any other teacher. The teacher's union has created a horrible system that hurts education.)

If you have differentiated skills you will make more money. If you don't you will and should make less. Artificially creating wage floors results in many problems including higher prices, inflation, and reduced incentive to achieve.

Really, I'm just so tired of all the whining. If you want to make more money, improve yourself and do it. Nobody is stopping you unless you're in the teacher's union. Then you can't make more money for being great.

We're not going to agree on this. You think unions are good for the economy and workers. I think they slow the economy and encourage workers to make excuses for failure and accept mediocrity in themselves.

Re: REYES URANGA WILL SEEK WRITE-IN ELECTION TO THIRD TERM IN SEVENTH DISTRICT

LB Resident — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:34:47 -0000

I actually agree with what you just said (except for the anti poor part which I am not). It's a shame though. The residents of the 7th need to educate themselves.

Re: POORISM

LB Resident — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:46:51 -0000

I never said I was better than a poor person. Your comment is insulting.

All I'm saying is if you're poor, and you don't like it, do something about it. Improve your skills and get a better paying job. Don't say, I have this low paying job and I should be paid more just because I feel like I should make more money.

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:26:13 -0000

DEAR GOD! I can't think of many worse situations than Tonia as mayor. That would be a really bad scenario.

And here I was hoping we would get a chance to improve her council district seat only to find out we may get her husband. Oh brother...

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:03:01 -0000

The 7th district is full of poverty and crime. Tonia supports policies that will keep it that way. So go ahead and keep voting her and her husband in. It is bad for all of long beach but it hurts your district the most, not mine.

The fallacy is that Tonia actually supports working people of LB. She doesn't. She supports unions. The unions are not necessarily LB residents. If she cared about hurt district she would reject increases to city employee compensation so the city could fix your sewers that recently got flooded. If she cared about her district, she would fight low income housing and other magnets of poverty in your district. If she cared about her district whe would fight livable wage strategy so that businesses would want to locate in her district.

But in fact she doesn't care about her district, she cares about getting elected to office. And she is bought and paid for by unions. After all, she referred to city employees as her "family" not her constituents.

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:42:31 -0000

Linda,

I am not trying to be flippant. I would like to understand the perspective of people who vote for people like Tonia. Specifically, what has she accomplished for the 7th district that makes you feel like supporting her?

Additionally, Tonia aggressively supports more expensive union contracts. This is a fact. Do you think this is good for our city? Many union workers do not live in LB. However every dollar we spend on them is a dollar we don't have to fix our streets or your flooding district.

Tonia aggressively supports city funded childcare and low income housing. Do you want more low income housing in your city or your district? Do you think your tax money should go to people for watching their children? Or do you think if people are going to have children they should be able to support the children themselves?

It baffles me when people, particularly people in poverty stricken districts, support politicians like Tonia. Tonia hurts the entire city but even moreso the low income districts like the 7th.

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:08:03 -0000

So how about you dare to care, what has she accomplished? Seriously, anything?

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:27:50 -0000

I said nothing that was abusive or biggoted or exclusionary.

And still nobody can name a specific positive accomplishment for Tonia.

Re: ROBERTO URANGA FILES TO SUCCEED HIS WIFE ON COUNCIL IN 2010–WILL SHE RUN FOR MAYOR?

LB Resident — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 10:08:12 -0000

OK. That makes a lot of sense.

Re: WHAT DID THAT $750 MILLION TOURISM MAKEOVER DO TO LONG BEACH?

LB Resident — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:12:26 -0000

I'm sure that this "townhall" will be totally unbiased. No agenda here folks...

Re: L.B.’S TOURISM-INDUSTRY POVERTY FORUM BRINGS THE SAME-OL’ HEARTBREAK

LB Resident — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:21:36 -0000

The officials may have sold the tourism industry in LB as something it isn't or at least yet.

Regardless, Jason is right. Determine how much money you want to make and choose the appropriate career. And certainly do not have children until you have created the lifestyle you want for yourself and your children. Having two kids and working as a hotel maid and then complaining about your quality of life is ridiculous.

Re: L.B.’S TOURISM-INDUSTRY POVERTY FORUM BRINGS THE SAME-OL’ HEARTBREAK

LB Resident — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 15:40:59 -0000

What John Greet said.

Re: L.B.’S TOURISM-INDUSTRY POVERTY FORUM BRINGS THE SAME-OL’ HEARTBREAK

LB Resident — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 15:43:36 -0000

The chamber of commerce doesn't necessarily need or even want LB to be filled with low income workers. In fact it's the opposite since higher incomes help retail and attract businesses that need better skillsets. The chamber likely knows that there is nothing that says the hotel workers need to live in LB. If the downtown area were to continue to grow it's population with people who have dicretionary income, you can still have lower paying hotel / service jobs. The workers just might arrive by the train from other cities a bit further north than Long Beach.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:23:16 -0000

I don't know whether this will work but I know we should ignore Juan Pardell's comments because he is jaded and never has anything constructive to say.

One thing that hurts downtown is it has nothing to get the Eastside LB residents down there except for the Aquarium. I actually think if they can do the ice rink and make it feel family friendly it could be a succesful draw. And if people from the Eastside go down there to ice skate, maybe they'll stay and have lunch and support some restaraunts.

And if they do that, maybe some day there will be some retail available for them to buy some things. (Now I'm talking crazy.)

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:09:01 -0000

Come on Dave, The District has a complaining, negative slant to its articles. By their own admission, they are a "point of view" publication. And more often than not that point of view is one of complaining about how awful things are. And when they do write about something positive they almost always slide some comment in about how LB will probably mess it up.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:14:44 -0000

I'm not sure what you're objecting to. All I'm saying is that Juan Pardell is not constructive and that and ice rink may help bring Eastside residents downtown if done well. Then again, it may be a horrible failure.

I have kids and live in one of the areas of the Eastside that many DW readers like to pick on and if the ice rink had easily available parking and felt family friendly / safe I'd probably take my kids down there. Heck I may even take them down there on the passport.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 11:25:07 -0000

You have consistently stated there is no hope for LB. So you come on these and other boards and say how everything LB has done is awful and all plans are awful. Obviously you have been hurt (maybe financially) in some way enough to continue posting about LB even though you no longer live here and apparently have no interest in seeing the place succeed. I can't ignore you because you constantly comment. I just wish you would post a positive suggestion once in awhile.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:54:07 -0000

I was quoting you. (sorry if it wasn't clear.) Actually read it in one of your posts.

I don't think we're ever in the same place but if for some reason we are I'll introduce myself.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:26:50 -0000

You make the point in every single one of your posts that LB has had failures. Point made.

Next time you feel like posting on a topic about a city 500 miles away from where you live and on a city you seemingly have no ties to, maybe think about whether simply pointing out a past failure will do anything to help going forward. Saying Cityplace sucks does not help in the discussion of an ice rink for example. If you think the ice rink is a bad idea, say so and then maybe even propose a better idea.

I mean really, we don't need you do point out past mistakes. We drive/walk by them every day.

And if you see no hope for LB as you seem to state in your last post, do us all a favor and post in the SF Chronicle instead of here. I am all for different points of view and even some complaining (heck I read this rag all the time) but absence of anything constructive is just not helpful. And you have never posted anything constructive (to my knowledge anyway).

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 16:00:06 -0000

OK. You're right. Long Beach's past mistakes will preclude the city from ever improving in any way. Let's all move to SF and then post complaints about our long not-forgotten city and never try to improve the place.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 16:03:54 -0000

Very well said.

Re: THE ICE RINK COMETH

LB Resident — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 16:40:54 -0000

to Matt that is, very well said

Re: BOSETTI GETS HER POSITIVITY ON WITH THIS VISION FOR DOWNTOWN

LB Resident — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 15:30:28 -0000

Here are 5 things that would show dramatic improvement within a single fiscal year. Not all are realistic because of the current council make up, but if any of them happended you would see improvement in demographics, property value increases, and an overall better atmosphere in the downtown area.

1. Elimination of affordable housing (particularly low income housing).
2. Reconfiguration of the breakwater
3. Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, or similar store lured downtown with a subsidy
4. Elimination of all homeless services
5. 3 fold increase in police presence with emphasis on blue line passengers

1,4, and 5 could be completed within 6 months with council support. Totally in their power to act quickly.

2 could happen with council support within 5 years

3 could happen with council support within 2 years

It's about priorities and what kind of downtown you want. The problem is we have Uranga, B. Lowenthal and the like and they pander to the poor. Their policies keep poor people poor, attract more poor people, and cause the contributing taxpayers to leave.

So Juan, when you say there is no hope for LB, I agree unless the people start voting in the right type of councilmembers. The 1st Distrct can start by electing Rick Berry. I hate to make this political but the reality is it is political. Everything around here is controlled by the council. And we have elected people that pander to the poor as opposed to demanding poor people either accept being poor, take hold of their lives an increase their salaries, or move.

Re: BOSETTI GETS HER POSITIVITY ON WITH THIS VISION FOR DOWNTOWN

LB Resident — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:15:39 -0000

Juan, I concede they are wishful thinking but not because of lack of funds or authority, but rather lack of will.

1. Eliminating all affordable housing is probably impossible. So I exaggerated. But surely we can stop making it worse. Killing the stupid Housing Trust Fund before it causes any harm is certainly possible immediately by this council. Another opportunity is as Gary Delong suggested moving the Boeing Douglas Project funds from the housing trust fund to infrastructure investment. There are many more examples but the point is the council can stop the affordable housing debacle that hurts society's contributors and attracts the people that drain social services.

2. The breakwater is not a problem of money. One year of priorizing the tidelands fund would reconfigure the breakwater. It's a question again of will. And I live in the area you refer to and I believe many people are open to reconfiguration. This was not true even 5 years ago. I think there has been a shift starting with the removal of two big opponents (peninsual residents Oneil and Colonna) from city gov't.

3. There is a business case to be made for Nordstrom. We just need someone to make it. 15% of South Coast's Nordstrom receipts come from 90803. Those shoppers would love to shop downtown if it's perceived as safe and the stores are there. A subsidy from the city could do it.

4. Homeless services cost money. Even if it's grants you have to staff someone to apply for them. We should stop. Spend the money on infrastructure and police.

5. Stop spending money on social services. Stop spending money translating public documents. Stop the waste and you can fund the police. Again, we have councilmembers that think job counseling and AIDS prevention educaton are core services. We need to vote those people out. We have the money to fund police. Also, a simple check of tickets and a little more attention to folks on the blue line will make it undesirable for them to come to LB.

Our problems in downtown can all be solved with political will. Our problem is we have councilmen who are owned by unions and pander to the poor. Uranga for example is either completely economically illiterate or she just doesn't care about the things that make a city prosper. Either way, like Bonnie, it will be great to see her go.

Re: BOSETTI GETS HER POSITIVITY ON WITH THIS VISION FOR DOWNTOWN

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:39:05 -0000

I went to a meeting for a proposed development in east long beach. It was mentioned by the development team.

It makes sense. If you have some money and live in Naples, the Shore, El Dorado, Park Estates, etc. where do you shop? You have to drive south and it's a shame.

I really believe one of the keys to making downtown great is getting East LB to go there. It would support the goal of "one city" as well.

Re: BOSETTI GETS HER POSITIVITY ON WITH THIS VISION FOR DOWNTOWN

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:57:21 -0000

First, I never thought any DW writer would ever agree with anything I say. Those this is good.

Second, this is not Beck's fault. He is a red herring.

This is a council issue. Again everything we're talking about can be addressed very quickly with the correct council makeup.

The reason you have low income housing, homeless people walking around everywhere, the controversial Walmart, and money diverted from infrastructure into social services is because of the council.

In recent years B.Lowenthal and Tonia Uranga have desimated their districts.

B.Lowenthal is gone and there is an opportunity to improve. Her boyfriend (Evan Bruade) will continue the awful policies. Unfortunately he'll probably win. Hopefully Rick Berry or even Robert Garcia will win but they don't pander to the poor so I doubt it.

Tonia will be termed out soon and hopefully the 7th will improve.

Honestly, what is terrible about all of this is that the policies of Uranga and Lowenthal and the like hurt their own districts more than mine. I live in the 3rd. It hurts my city, which I detest, but it hurts the poorer districts the most. But they do it to themselves by voting in people with political career aspirations instead of helping residents and businesses.

Re: BOSETTI GETS HER POSITIVITY ON WITH THIS VISION FOR DOWNTOWN

LB Resident — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:12:44 -0000

We should be thinking Kohl's AND Bloomingdales.

Re: BACK DOOR MEN?

LB Resident — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:41:12 -0000

Dean does not own any land that is either nice or with nice foliage.

Re: NEW WETLANDS PARCEL OWNER SAYS CITY GAVE HIM THE ASPHALT TO SPREAD YESTERDAY

LB Resident — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 17:05:50 -0000

He also says he plans to turn it into a grass park. Many will like this plan. Wetland crazies won't since they think this property is wetlands even though it appears by record it is not and a park would look nice there.

Most people don't talk about purchase prices. Do you go around telling people how much you pay for stuff like your house?

Re: NEW WETLANDS PARCEL OWNER SAYS CITY GAVE HIM THE ASPHALT TO SPREAD YESTERDAY

LB Resident — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 17:06:08 -0000

agreed

Re: SCHIPSKE CALLS ON MAYOR AND COUNCIL TO REVISIT WETLANDS DEAL

LB Resident — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:09:20 -0000

While I usually think your posts are totally off base, this one does have an important claim. If doing this deal does not result in a substantially better looking property (ie oil wells remain and restoration is not completed), then this plan is not advantageous.

Things that matter:
1) Removing the oil wells and restoring the wetlands

Things that do no matter:
1) How much money Tom Dean makes.
2) Recalling Gary DeLong

Your posse has their heart in the right place (I think) but too often you guys let emotion cloud your ability to positively affect outcomes. It is not appropriate to claim that opposing the home depot for example is a "win". The only thing that matters is improving the wetland properties and to date the closest anyone has come to making that a reality is the city gov't. with this proposal. And if you're correct then they are not even that close and nobody has made any progress ever.

Re: TALKING POINTS

LB Resident — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:25:49 -0000

He is the worst possible choice. Owned by unions. He may even be worse than Uranga.

Re: TALKING POINTS

LB Resident — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:55:12 -0000

It means whether a union policy is good for the city or not, he will support it. When the next ridiculous pension/pay increase request is on the table, he will vote for it and the city will continue to suffer from lack of money to do the things we really need to do like fix streets, install storm drain filters, etc.

The city employees, hospitality workers, and truckers are going to quickly see mass layoffs in their field and severely slowing economy (you think this one is bad) if they don't learn a lesson in economics and stop voting as if high pay is a right not a reward.

Re: TALKING POINTS

LB Resident — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 13:57:18 -0000

The problem is the majority of people in the first district are not educated enough to know that the pandering from the leftist candidates only hurts Long Beach residents in the long run. Braude will likely win this thing because he is the biggest panderer of them all and the 1st district and all of Long Beach will have lost out on a great opportunity to upgrade council representation.

Re: LOOKY WHAT I SAW IN THE WETLANDS!

LB Resident — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 13:54:43 -0000

my goodness...

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 12:05:48 -0000

Just remember Robert, homeowners first. Residents who contribute more than they consume second. Businesses third. Unions, gangs, homeless, and other special interests shouldn't be part of the discussion.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:18:34 -0000

Homeowners have made a significant financial investment in the community and deserve to have their interests prioritized over people who have not.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:20:43 -0000

should have said financial investment AND committment to the community.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:45:56 -0000

Stop offering homeless services and the homeless will move on. Look at the cities with homeless problems. Santa Monica, Long Beach, Laguna Beach, etc. What is the common denominator? They all offer more homeless services than other cities and as a result are a magnet for that population. Many homeless actually ride the blue line from LA to LB for the services.

And before you say I'm not solving the homeless problem I'm just pushing it to another city, let me say you're right. There will always be homeless people and I'd rather not have them overly concentrated in my backyard. Let's "spread the wealth" as our "genious" leader would say.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:49:42 -0000

Hopefully the results will be a strong supporter of negotiations against unions to significantly reduce the penison burden for tax payers. Also, the elimination of non-core services. The elimination of the health program that subsidized substance abuse classes was a good start. We need more of those reductions. Finally, an increase in spending for city funded beach cleanups and street/sidewalk repairs.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:04:48 -0000

at the city gov't level that is debatable in many places.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:07:06 -0000

I agree with you. If you don't want republicans, libertarians, homeowners, or any other groups that generally contribute to the tax base that is your choice. My preference is to keep them and minimize the number of homeless people.

If we do it your way, who will pay for all the handouts?

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:08:06 -0000

Interest will always compete. Some will always be given priority. I'm hoping those who have given so much to the community will be rewarded once in awhile.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:22:49 -0000

Never claimed they were less citizens. Who'putting words in the mouth of others now?

There will come a time for tradeoffs. Do we fix a street or do we offer a shelter for homeless? Do we put a storm filter in or do we subsidize daycare? You know my vote. I know yours. We'll see where Robert's is in due time.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:44:09 -0000

we should charge as much as we can for oil revenue. good point.

we should offer deals to developers only if it ultimately benefits the community in terms of sales or other tax revenue, better quality of life, and contributions to infrastructure funds.

so I agree with your above. But I doubt you agree we should also pull the plug on subsidized daycare, homeless services, subsidized healthcare, etc which are services that ultimately don't help those who consume those services and merely add to the list of people draining resources from the few contributors we have left in this city.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:45:33 -0000

I don't expect him to be. but I expect him to be better than any of the other candidates that ran save Berry.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:19:45 -0000

Denying them benefits??? Nobody is denying anyone anything.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:25:46 -0000

Usually it's a match from the city and always city staff has to apply and manage the grant.

The bigger cost is you get the service, then you attract the person to the city that wants/needs the service. That person isn't contributing more tax dollars than he consumes in most cases.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:34:59 -0000

i don't think anyone is measuring the validity of concerns. But we don't live in a world where everyone's desires correlate nicely. Someone isn't going to get what they want. I believe homeowners are the most vested in the community and should be prioritized. Obviously you don't.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:46:28 -0000

It's not a match in every case. I'm getting info anecdotally from the council agendas when they apply for grants. You do need to apply for the grant so that is staff time, overhead, etc. Plus if staff is working on social service grants they aren't working on core services grants.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:49:48 -0000

we may just be arguing about semantics. I want the city to spend money on infrastructure and public safety. others want the city to spend money on social services. The city has to choose. They can't do it all. Since I'm paying for the city services and homeless people aren't I think I should get a higher priority. If you disagree with that logic, then we will have to agree to disagree.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:51:04 -0000

I guess we disagree on what benefits are. Homeless services in my mind is charity. The gov't shouldn't be telling people how much charity to give and who to give it to.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:44:58 -0000

private groups can do whatever they want (within the law of course). I would prefer to not have an overconcentration of churches providing homeless services right near my house.

I do not believe gov't should provide social services. That is what charity is for. Yes I believe everyone should be charitable. Yes, I am.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:46:53 -0000

That is not my assertion.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:56:16 -0000

I didn't say they were. But I would argue until the city provides the adequate core services of infrastructure and public safety, every dollar they spend on homeless services is prioritizing a niche/special interest population and one that does not contribute to the tax base.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:59:35 -0000

At the end of the day, all I'm saying is the city's responsibility is to provide the core services of infrastructure and public safety. The city does not currently do this. Until they do, they should not be spending money on other services.

I have a lot of other political perspectives (some of which I've touched on) but it's just noise with the majority of the district readers so I'll just leave it at the above point.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:19:47 -0000

overly agressive comment on my part. I take it back.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:34:24 -0000

Mike,

I see you talk at council meetings and read about you in the paper and I do appreciate your civic involvement. I've even been to a few of the BSRA meetings even though I don't live there. I do think for whatever reason you and Delong are at a point where rationality has been left behind. Mr. Delong has been very responsive in a number of ways to his constituents. I have personal experience with this. That doesn't mean he can't improve or that your experience has been less than ideal with him. I hope you'll continue to challenge status quo but I hope you'll also find a way to work with delong because we'll all be better off that way. I think if you give him the benefit of the doubt once in awhile it might help the relationship. (If I were betting, I'd bet he helps you out with the motorcycle parking issue if you let him.)

All that said, delong is pro-business and pro-homeowner. I like this. If you don't maybe he just never will be a partner in your eyes.

As far as the environment, he gets a bad rap. Do I believe he genuinely, personally cares if the wetlands are restored? Not really. But he does work toward that goal because his constituents care. Voting yes on Home Depot and wanting to see Seaport re-developed does not make him anti wetlands. Neither of those properties are on wetlands. I think a scenario where the home depot property and seaport property is redeveloped along with a restored wetlands is a great outcome. And MANY people in the community agree. delong is working toward what the MAJORITY of his constituents want. Only the enviro-crazies are so against all development.

And ask this question. Which councilman over the years has come remotely close to getting the wetlands in public hands? It's gary. We can argue about overpaying, building heights of surrounding properties, etc. but at the end of the day, he's working toward acquiring the property. Nobody else has come close.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:47:48 -0000

Many infrastructure and public safety issues. Any time I've brought an issue to him, I've brought a recommendation. He has either executed or proposed an alternative that has been equally effective.

Additionally, delong has emphasized water quality by directing tidelands funds to storm drain filters along bluff park and the los cerritos channel.

He has also worked tirelessly to keep city funds directed at core services and away from social services.

There are more but these are a few of the reasons I am happy with him.

The one area I disagree with delong is I strongly support reconfiguring the breakwater. He's luke warm at best but at least keeping an open mind to partial reconfiguration i think.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:08:00 -0000

He is. But similar to the other thread there will be competing priorities. some are going to be unhappy. but I've listened to Mike enough to feel that he and delong probably agree on a lot of things. what is killing the relationship is the pissing match between mike and the BSBA. gary is caught in the middle. what is most annoying is 85% of what is good for the BSBA is also good for the BSRA. I think it's a problem of personalities not goals.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:34:41 -0000

so did you come away feeling delong is guilty of every crime imaginable as some on this site would have you believe?

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:38:57 -0000

I don't have bad information.

There is ideology. My view is gov't shouldn't be involved in charity.

There is duty. The gov't duty is to provide adequate infrastructure and public safety. LB does neither and therefore shouldn't spend 1 cent on social services.

There is subjective. I believe a large homeless population hurts quality of life in a number of ways. And yes, I think Santa Monica suffers from their homeless population.

Finally, to argue that homeless services somehow helps the economy is absolutely ridiculous. You probably argue increased illegal immigration helps the economy too. Whether money comes from outside the city or not (and we agree some comes from the city) when you offer the welcome mat to people who want social services, guess what, they show up. And that increases the strain on the existing programs. then gov't says we need to raise taxes to pay for the basic needs. Hello measure I. it is a horrible trade off. I'll put the wealthy new resident up against the homeless person any day. if the person truly is wealthy they contribute a ton in sales tax. And since they are "new" as you put it, they are likely paying a high amount of property tax unless they moved here after age 55 and had lived in their previous residence since before the real estate boom.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:42:08 -0000

He has determined he cannot work with you Mike. I'm not saying I agree or think it's right. But you're not helping by constantly fighting. In fact your approach is a disservice to the residents of belmont shore because they are indirectly receiving little council support (or at least that is your perspective). I realize you were voted in but the reality is most people just don't pay attention to this stuff so you're able to be elected by a very small percentage of people in the shore. It would be great if you and gary could find a way to work together.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:43:08 -0000

who pays for the administrator and coordination of funds?

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 20:32:25 -0000

we just have different ideas on what is good for the city.

I would point out fed/state dollars are tax payer dollars too. Gov't isn't supposed to be a charity in my opinion.

Ultimately I would argue that the benefit of worker salaries,etc. contributing to the economy is not a good trade off for the quality of life problems we go through as a result of increased homeless populations concetrated in our city. And remember 500k of those salaries if funded by the state/fed are only possible because money was confiscated in the form of higher taxes from someone else. No actual value was created. the gov't can't create value.

by the way it's not just homeless issues that create the problem. There are many wasteful programs including this dumb idea of a housing trust fund. Hopefully we'll kill that too during this budgeting process.

Re: GARCIA WINS FIRST DISTRICT COUNCIL SEAT

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 20:35:09 -0000

josh, i respect your opinion too even if we disagree. just want to make that clear.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:25:17 -0000

I really can't wait to see what happens when the election comes next year. My perspective is there is a small but very vocal group of people who can't stand gary. But I think there is a very large group that thinks he's the best rep the third district has had in some time. The votes won't lie. I am curious to see if my perception is correct.

Re: DELONG TIME NO SEE! RECLUSIVE COUNCILMAN MEETS PUBLIC TODAY AT 11:45 A.M.

LB Resident — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 13:00:34 -0000

I don't know if delong said ignore you. but I'm not saying anyone should ignore you.

I am saying I think belmont shore would be better if you and delong could partner. I am saying I think both of you are responsible for lack of partnering. I am saying I do not know what will happen in the next council election but I do think delong will be re-elected by a wide margin. It's very possible I will be very wrong.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:09:42 -0000

Why don't you do a story on how 80% or so of the general fund goes to city salaries and pensions and that city employees only contribute something like 2% to their fund while tax payers pick up the rest. Or how about a story on the mis-alignment of city employees and tax paying residents because most city employees don't live in LB. Or how about a story on how much money could be spent on infrastructure and beach/water quality issues if we didn't spend money on staff or direct funds for social services. Include the opportunity cost of missed grants, etc. for infrastructure. How about a story on the negative effects of low income housing in the 1st and 7th districts and how it actually hurts the poor living in that district more than the rest of the city. How about a story on the worst council person ever Tonia Uranga and how she is so completely owned by unions that she votes against the benefit of her district yet complains that the city can't afford to fix a sewer line in her district.

You guys are always looking for a controversey. And that is good. The PT sure doesn't keep anyone in check. I just wish even though you're all liberal socialists you would throw a bone to some of us moderate, tax paying, homeowners who care about the quality of life in this community. At some point you're going to be cnn and the moderate will stop paying attention to you. Maybe that's what you want. I get you have a bias, that's why I read your site. I like to hear the other side. But c'mon...

Cue the attacks ...

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:22:12 -0000

I appreciate the sarcasm.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:25:19 -0000

It's not just that they export the income. It's that they have no vested interest in quality of life. They don't care as long as they keep getting a paycheck. They would gladly trade fixing sidewalks, trimming trees, storm drain filters, for a 3% raise and a pension paid by yours truly.

and I do like to rant.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 18:00:26 -0000

they are allowed to live in the park because the police and city mgmt all live outside of long beach. it doesn't affect them. And they don't care what the public thinks because their main customers are the unions that represent the employees.

you're right, you can't legislate where people live. but it would be great if the public knew how everytime they elect a democrat/union owned council person they are choosing salaries and pensions and social services over streets, sidewalks, and clean beaches.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 18:20:33 -0000

I don't care if they are or are not republican. I just want them to prioritize infrastructure over city employee unions and social services. I've yet to see a democrat do that. Do you know of any?

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 18:53:58 -0000

that's not what I said. it depends on the republican. but most would put taxpayers ahead of unions and social services. the current republican on the council certainly does.

good to hear you agree there are no democrats that represent tax payers.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 22:24:57 -0000

real republicans haven't been in charge the last 8 years. or at a minimum they have not behaved as such.

i have no money and delong has his faults but would take delongs votes and actions over any of the other clowns on the council.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 11:33:31 -0000

I do have a sense of charity. Let me explain something to you. Charity is not to be mandated and allocated through government. This is America. Charity is a voluntary act of choice. And I bet I give a lot more than you do.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:16:09 -0000

Oh I get it now, you were born with wealth so you have liberal guilt. Makes perfect sense. I was not. I worked and am able to support a family with some comfort. So I still believe in choosing where and how to spend the money I worked for.

I don't need to defend my charitable givings whether it's time or money to you. Stop accusing me of things. You don't know me. You clearly believe that the gov't and you know what is best for everyone else. I believe the opposite. Go in peace socialist.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:00:37 -0000

thank you

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 14:27:01 -0000

I find you arrogant, intolerant, close minded, a bit slow, and possibly crazy. But we need all types in this world I guess.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 14:28:36 -0000

sorry. I shouldn't have resorted to name calling.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:29:38 -0000

"The Homeless Services Division is responsible for coordinating homeless services and addressing the impacts of homelessness citywide. It has a staff of 29 FTE’s and an annual budget of $8.9 million."

Can you provide more detail on what this $8.9M accomplishes? Also what is the "Transit Enforcement Detail" and how much does it cost Long Beach?

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:50:29 -0000

Doesn't the city pay for the LB Transit services?

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:01:33 -0000

actually it's probably the transit fees.

Re: COUNCILMAN-ELECT GARCIA PICKS HIS STAFFERS

LB Resident — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:51:59 -0000

I don't know the people he picked personally. But after reading for the last year what Daniel had to say on the post he is far from a chamber guy. Daniel appeared very liberal to me. And that is worrisome because of all the districts the first does not need yet more liberal policies continuing to drag the district down.

Re: COUNCILMAN-ELECT GARCIA PICKS HIS STAFFERS

LB Resident — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:47:40 -0000

who is this gang of 5/6? The only right of center council person is delong and maybe lerch. Everyone else is quite liberal.

Re: RACE RELATIONS

LB Resident — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:12:09 -0000

Right. Because federal funds don't come from tax payers and are never used for infrastructure.

Re: COALITION TO HOTELIERS: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR WORKERS

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:32:35 -0000

I cannot wait until Tonia is gone. Simply the worst.

Re: COALITION TO HOTELIERS: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR WORKERS

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:18:00 -0000

we can only hope the 7th realizes what a disaster she has been and votes for someone else.

Re: COALITION TO HOTELIERS: TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR WORKERS

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:54:07 -0000

Very good post.

Re: COUNCIL MAJORITY LEANS TOWARD RELEASING WETLANDS E-MAILS

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:21:43 -0000

I could argue all of your claims against delong in this post but I won't. I will say, regarding the beach playground plans, that was started by Colonna and was being driven by the marine bureau by the time delong came into office. You should actually give him credit for listening and changing the plan. And actually, many people on the Peninsula supported the relocation plan. Obviously some in the shore didn't. I was at your meeting when people objected and most were against the plan but it's hard to make the case that group of 30 people or so represent the sentiment of the entire 3rd district or even all of the Shore for that matter.

Seriously, your hatred of Delong is not helping the Shore. I think you're well intentioned but I'm not sure you're effective.

That said, I enjoyed watching you read the donations to the council. That was funny and clearly made the mayor uncomfortable.

Re: JUST GOT LUCKY?

LB Resident — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:11:30 -0000

come on guys. let's not try to turn every single story into a negative one. It would be really great for Long Beach to have the studio or the tesla deal. Would be even better if somehow both could go through. It's a big site so maybe we can have a movie studio and an electric car plant.

Re: ARLEN SPECTER’S A DEMOCRAT!

LB Resident — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:37:24 -0000

I wouldn't call him a moderate republican. He's going to fit in much better with the dems. What a power hungry guy. He knows he can't win the republican primary coming up so he changes parties.

Re: ARLEN SPECTER’S A DEMOCRAT!

LB Resident — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:27:52 -0000

I don't really care that much that either did. Though Leiberman switched to independent I think, not the other party so it's a bit different. and his support for mccain was personal support for the man not the party. I think apples to oranges.

honestly, it is isn't good to lose members to another party so it's not great for republicans that specter switched. But the guy never could be counted on to do the right thing anyway. hopefully a real repub can win the seat in 2010.

Re: ARLEN SPECTER’S A DEMOCRAT!

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:03:39 -0000

the GOP is neither anti-environment nor anti- open government.

Re: ARLEN SPECTER’S A DEMOCRAT!

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:58:45 -0000

no, that is what most liberals think. and that is what the liberal media pushes. That said, the GOP messaging does suck.

Re: ARLEN SPECTER’S A DEMOCRAT!

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:32:48 -0000

the country is primarily center right. the obama socialism movement is but a blip enabled by fake republicans such as w. and the fools in congress. Give it a few years and we'll be back to a era more closely related to Reagan. We just need to see the negative effects of obama's policies take place first. Here comes inflation, etc.

as far as the environment, most of us GOP types support efforts to clean it.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Thu, 07 May 2009 18:42:51 -0000

We have to find a way to align our employees with the taxpayers. The fact is most employees don't live in LB. This means they don't care if the city is weak, blighted, full of crime, lacking in infrastructure or park programs, dirty beach, etc. All they care about is that we have enough money to pay their ever increasing salaries and pensions.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Thu, 07 May 2009 23:44:06 -0000

If this is true, we should do it. Of course we won't because every council memeber save delong is owned by the unions.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:14:03 -0000

what do you think about incentive pay for employees who live in Long Beach? One idea could be a bonus program for down payments on houses if the house is in Long Beach.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 16:41:29 -0000

I do. How can we get the majority of police officers to care about the quality of life in LB? I know a few lb police and none live in lb. Their primary motivation is high salaries and benefits even if it hurts lb as whole. How do we change that?

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 17:56:04 -0000

All I can say is wow. http://www.lbreport.com/news/may09/dofdon.htm

800 LB officers are sueing LB for not being paid overtime for putting on their clothes. I'm sure every waiter out there gets paid OT to put on their Claim Jumper uniform. Outrageous.

This is why we need to align our employees with the quality of life in the city. This so ridiculous but it shows that our "family" (as idiot Uranga said) really cares about their pay and nothing else.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 20:32:41 -0000

clearly this could be a populous issue if we are representative of others is lb. Those who read these boards know I'm very conservative. The same is obviously not true of howard. Might be a populous issue. I'll be conversing with my counicl member about this.

as an aside, my bet is the police union does not find this suit helpful with pressure to reduce costs going into this fall's labor negotiation.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 22:58:03 -0000

maybe the police officers should take responsiblity for their union leadership and change it or tell it they don't want the sole purpose of the union as one who gets very liberal, awful people into office so long as they secure high wages and pensions.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Fri, 08 May 2009 23:07:39 -0000

well maybe you could ask them if they would up their pension contribution to 8% which is still way better than any private sector job. For doing this, we might be able to fix a street around here or maybe even put a storm drain filter in along the la river. don't get me wrong, I love police. We need them more than anything. I greatly appreciate that they risk their lives to protect me and make life better. I wish they had more authority to rid our streets of scum and didn't have the negative pressures of the crazy ACLU and liberal politicians who make their job more difficult. As a very conservative person police are one of the few things I believe we should tax ourselves for. But at the end of the day, we have gone way overboard with overpaying for all city employees and that includes police and fire.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Sat, 09 May 2009 12:20:35 -0000

you've clearly never put on a suit. putting on a suit, cuff links, tie, etc can take easily 15 minutes.

It's a ridiculous argument the police are making and it doesn't sit well with any rationale person. You just don't get OT for getting dressed to go to work.

They'd be better off picking another battle.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Sat, 09 May 2009 13:00:30 -0000

City employees pay is a problem. More evidence from the PT.

Former city attorney, police chief top Long Beach pensions
By Paul Eakins on May 8, 2009 5:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

An interesting new Web site dedicated to reforming California's pension system, created by the California Foundation for Fiscal Responsibility and appropriately called www.californiapensionreform.com, sheds light on which former government employees have the highest pensions (more than $100,000 a year) around the state. While no former Long Beach employees made the Top 10 list, more than 100 former city of Long Beach and Cal State Long Beach employees still made the cut. The Web site allows users to search for costly pensions by name or by employer.

At the top of Long Beach's list is former City Attorney John Calhoun, who the Web site says earns $194,319.60 annually, followed by former Police Chief Jerome Lance at $177,315.72. Two former city managers, Henry Taboada and James Hankla Jr., are close behind at $174,751.32 and $166,056.36, respectively.

The unveiling of the site this week may be timely for many government agencies, including Long Beach. The city is battling massive budget deficits, and more than a few critics have placed blame on the fat pensions given to employees.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Sat, 09 May 2009 14:09:44 -0000

I can't believe you're really trying to make this argument. I think it's analagous to the execs of the car companies. Yes private jets probably save money in the long run. But you still don't fly them to DC and ask for billions of dollars. Yes, it probably takes longer to put on police gear than a suit or claim jumper uniform. But you still don't ask for OT pay to get dressed.

Re: WHERE THE (BROKEN) SIDEWALK ENDS

LB Resident — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:32:36 -0000

the city spends too much money on social service and employee wages and benefits. that's why they don't do it themselves.

That said, I like this program. should have been started a long time ago.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:57:30 -0000

Whether LB police are on par with median salaries of "like cities" is irrelevant in my opinion. all cities are overpaying but regardless LB can't afford the current structure. It needs to change. If that means some officers seek employment elsewhere, good luck to them.

regarding pension benefits instead of raises: I don't buy it. the average officer makes close to 100k/year. that is enough. Because of the hazzard pay issue, I'm willing to pay for a part of a pension even though virtually no private worker gets the same. But I am unwilling to pick up 98% of it. Police need to contribute more to their pensions.

again, I love the police. But they have been getting greedy for a number of years and I'm tired of them threatening mass destruction and killings in the street if we don't cave to their every desire. further, it's salt in the wound when I find out almost none of them live in my city and thus could care less whether the streets are fixed or the beach is clean.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:28:40 -0000

If we were really doing this the right way, police would be paid more based on performance not tenure. Then we could truly have a fair system. As such, like all unions, the police strongly object to this. so we do stupid things like compare average salaries to other cities and then all the politicians who are bought by the unions compete to see who can give the highest raises the fastest. then they can all point to each other and scream we're not at median. It's a joke. So we find ourselves in a place that means cuts for all police or layoffs. it's stupid but that is how your union wants it. Fine. Then we need to cut everyone because we don't have enough police as is. I don't want to cut salaries because that is harder on most than cutting pension contributions. So my strong preference as said earlier is to require police to contribute more to their pensions. Then we keep cops on the street, maintain salaries, and give the tax payer a much deserve break.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:33:01 -0000

they will and it's a pathetic. I'm so tired of being blackmailed. We can change this. Stop voting for people like tonia uranga and bonnie lowenthal.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Tue, 12 May 2009 10:55:15 -0000

Yes. you are going to have compensation that isn't as high overall. sorry. everyone in the country is going through that now.

regarding pay for performance, yours is the same stuff we hear from teachers. im not a cop. it isn't up to me to solve. but I bet if I asked who are the best and worst cops you know, you could tell me. so obviously there is a way to pay for performance. my guess is give the managers some subjective authority like every other industry to evaluate their people.

Re: WHAT OUR TOP COPS SAID ABOUT FURLOUGHS

LB Resident — Tue, 12 May 2009 12:47:42 -0000

I think salaries should remain the same. Pension contributions should go up. That's what I said. Technically I'm not cutting salaries. But I am in effect indirectly lowering take home income. If that means I have to admit I was wrong. OK. I'm wrong.

Regarding merit pay. You want a suggestion. Give authority to the managers to rank their employees. It's up to the management to come up with the ranking system. It can be and should be at least in part subjective.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Tue, 12 May 2009 23:04:55 -0000

totally agree.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:26:29 -0000

No John. Sorry. Police deserve pensions even though most people don't get them because they put their lives in danger to protect us. But the police need to contribute more to them. And I don't care what other cities are paying. Police make decent livings. If they want to be paid more, they can implement pay for performance and reward the best officers at the expense of the slackers. And yes, even the police have slackers. Every group does. I love you guys but you need to step forward and be a part of the solution. The contracts have gotten out of control and tired bankrupting my city for people who don't even live in Long Beach for the most part.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 13:27:40 -0000

If you've read any of my posts, you'll know I STRONGLY favor eliminating ALL spending on social services including homeless services, daycare, affordable housing, etc. and only keeping programs related to infrastructure, water quality and public safety. So yes, I agree with you. But cutting pension costs IS part of the solution.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 14:35:16 -0000

in general I agree but let's not get too carried away. the fireman gave back 1.9% of going forward pay. we still have a huge pension problem that has not been addressed. we need to see them agree to reform there.

Also, all of these proposed "givebacks" only get us to status quo which is not very good. We need enough cuts in extras including social services cuts so we can actually INCREASE budgets in infrastructure, water quaility, etc.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 14:58:30 -0000

stop voting for people with high union donations and liberal democrats who believe that providing more social services is the way to solve poverty. I really don't want to make this partisan issue but it's the reality. And I know the chamber endorses republicans and there are problems with them too. But long beach's problems are overwhelmingly driven by high union contracts and social services that act as a magnet for more poor and an obstacle to spending money on infrastructure which is necessary for any city to thrive.

names you should be afraid of uranga and lowenthal.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:47:16 -0000

delong is beholden to busisness. you know i'm biased and don't think that is nearly as bad as being beholden to other special interests.

but OK, something to do before the next vote. Write your council person and tell him/her you want pension reform and a pause on all social service spending until this city can adequately provide fixed streets/sidewalks, a clean beach, and clean parks. My bet is you'll get support from DeLong and maybe Lerch. Good luck with the rest. They are owned by the special interests that don't care about our quality of life only the quality of pay for their union members who don't live in Long Beach and handouts for the homeless and poor.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:18:57 -0000

I'v already stated I want police to have pensions. I just want them to contribute to them. They cannot be 98% taxpayer funded. If we have to look at outsourcing, so be it. I'd prefer to keep them though.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:22:10 -0000

what policy do you want changed that is driven by a delong special interest? (maybe I want the same, let's find out)

Policies I'd like changed driven by liberal special interests include: subsidization of housing, daycare, and health. near 100% taxpayer funded pensions;

do you agree with the policies I want changed?

I'm not saying my special interests are ok to be partisan. I just can't think of too many business special interests that I have a huge problem with. Maybe I am missing something. Enlighten me.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:24:52 -0000

I think obama is doing lots of damage.

I already said, even though virtually every other industry does not provide pensions, I'm happy to pay for police to get one because they risk their life for me. But I want them to contribute to it too. Even if they do, that is very generous of us taxpayers as we have to save for our retirements.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:56:29 -0000

We spend more than Josh asserts. Hiring a staff person alone is enough to fix a street. The bigger problem is not the money the city spends directly, it's the money the city spends indirectly to compensate for all the problems caused and quality of life issues driven by creating a magnet for more and more people to show up in LB with a hand out.

I agree with you on the wetlands. This whole thing seems fishy.

Is that it? I hope there is more. I'll take a wetlands debacle over the other stuff any day. Worst case scenario with the wetlands is we overpay for fixing a blight. Worst case for the other stuff...well you know. we're living it.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:17:56 -0000

my street is cracked and full of potholes. the curbs are crumbling in my neighborhood. there is no money to filter the la river; our sewer system fails all the time and spills into my beach;

there are many problems that are basic duties of government.

yes we disagree on the impact and drawing card of the poor to long beach; we disagree on how to solve the problem

glad we agree on the pension issue. write your council person. if it's not delong, my guess is you'll get nowhere.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:45:13 -0000

I think we both agree he is beholden to business and developers much more than any group of unions.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:47:08 -0000

neither. I think the council will throw the taxpayers under the bus by cutting services even further and our roads, beaches, and sidewalks will get worse.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 18:33:16 -0000

good point. don't know why he did that. I'm going to ask him though.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 18:41:07 -0000

now that I think about it, furloughs for fire and police doesn't make sense as it hurts public safety. however reforming pensions and salary freezes does not take police or fire off the streets and are therefore in my opinion better approachs for these groups

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 23:43:45 -0000

Belmont Shore has a college/LBSU party contingent living there but for the most part it is overwhelmingly a great family neighborhood. This stuff is jerks from outside the neighborhood visiting the bars and needs to be nipped right now or we are going to be ghetto thug huntington beach in no time.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Wed, 13 May 2009 23:44:41 -0000

by the way, I don't mean to imply the lbsu students are the problem. I don't believe they are. Again I think it is an outside element from what I can tell.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 12:21:17 -0000

There does have to be a happy medium. I don't want to stop the bars from serving drinks. I remember when I was at LBSU and a few years after I would have a good time on 2nd. The problem is not bars serving drinks. But the bars have to take responsibility for their patrons. If they need to hire security to watch the street from 11 pm to 3 am, so be it. Cost of doing business. Making sure patrons leave the Shore area in an orderly fashion after a night out should be something the bars take responsibility for.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 12:24:07 -0000

This is a good idea. It is totally unnacceptable if what Mike is saying is true about not showing up right away. These police really aren't winning any friends right now. Generous pensions payed by taxpayers, they don't live in Long Beach, they are suing the citizens for OT to get dressed, and now we find out it is policy not to show up to break up fights. Wow.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 14:44:36 -0000

now who's being partisan. "republicans don't want to pay their fare share" republican or not taxes are paid overwhelmingly by the top 5% of earners in this country. 40% don't pay any federal income tax. Is that fair?

Regardless, I'm happy to pay my taxes. In return, I expect them to be spent efficiently and on core services.

obama loves to liken himself to Lincoln. So let's see what he has to say about taxes:

You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence.
You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves.

.....Abraham Lincoln

How dare you say anything about "fair share."

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:04:02 -0000

ah, the crux of our disconnect. You think people who earn higher salaries were either lucky or inherited it. I think the vast majority of them worked hard and made good choices.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:22:46 -0000

they already pay more. Much more. I explained the percentages already. And you implied that it wasn't fair that some people made significantly less money. Of course they make less money not because it's fair or unfair but most likely becasue they made poor choices in life. Regardless, they pay nothing in fed taxes. Others pay a lot. Now apparently you don't think that's good enough because you want to raise taxes on the higher wage earners even more. When is enough enough already. Altas Shrugged. It can happen.

Re: STRUCTURAL BUDGET DEFICIT WORSENS; FIREFIGHTERS TO RETURN COMPENSATION

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:24:50 -0000

define superwealthy.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Thu, 14 May 2009 18:16:52 -0000

I agree with a lot of what you say. That said, anyone fighting and/or disturbing the peace in the neighborhood should be sent to jail for an evening. And the cops should show up pronto to arrest them, not when they feel like it.

go get drunk. just don't be an a-hole.

Re: MORRY’S OF NAPLES MAY BECOME JUST MORRY’S

LB Resident — Fri, 15 May 2009 11:59:37 -0000

a plus for downtown but sad to see Morry's leave Naples if that is the case.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Sat, 16 May 2009 14:21:13 -0000

i get your point but bad example. uranga is a hypocrite. she complains about not having money for infrastructure repairs yet is the worst offender of wasting money on non-essential services. she's never seen a social service she doesn't like.

that said, delong like ALL of the council has their mind made up well before public testimony. if you think that isnt true you're kidding yourself. delong just doesn't play the games the others do and pretend he's be influenced by some last minute testimony. the council gets a lot of input before the meeting and that is what drives their decisons for the most part.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Sat, 16 May 2009 16:51:42 -0000

somewhat off topic, i agree. but I was referring to his comment about the west long beach residents talking about flooding which is uranga

Re: THE EARTH MOVES

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 13:29:13 -0000

if we're gonna have earthquakes can't they at least destroy the breakwater!

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:58:32 -0000

Suzanne Browne needs to go away a ruin someone else's city. I really hope we miraculously fail to get this submitted in time so we don't get the 1c funding. Enough with the low income housing. People in the 1st and 2nd districts should be especially concerned. Hopefully our new councilman in Robert Garcia will take a stand and do what's right for us. Resist the pressure to add more low income housing in Long Beach.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 16:24:03 -0000

You are correct. Many people including myself would like increase the demographics of our city to that of higher disposable income. There are a number of benefits if that were to happen.

Additionally, aside from the fact that I don't believe the government should be subsidizing housing, an overconcentration of low income housing leads to many problems including a fleeing of the existing tax base, higher crime and demand for more police resources, and higher demand for social services which dilutes the resources that we actually do have available. For proof simply look at the districts with material amounts of low income housing. Which way are their crime rates heading? Which direction is their tax base heading? Have things gotten worse in terms of quality of life since the low income housing arrived?

Residents of districts 1, 2, 6, and 7 should be concerned. If we're going to be one city, we all should be.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 16:30:43 -0000

You know you and I typically don't agree. In fact only the pension issue have we found common ground. But usually I think you're pretty rationale. However, your comment about racism could possibly be the stupidest thing I've ever read on this board. Nothing I said was racist and if you knew my background you'd feel pretty stupid. Regardless, I don't care what color someone is. I don't want to pay for their housing. Call me an elitist. I'm not. But at least you could make that argument without sounding like a fool.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 17:12:19 -0000

I don't think it's healthy for our city to have such a large portion of its population living off of other people's money. Every vibrant city should have diversity. But too much of any group is not good. Newport has a balance of almost exclusively wealthy people and it makes their city incredibly boring and stale. We have too many people that can't carry their own weight. We need to get to a balance particularly around downtown and adding low income housing and more social services is not helpful.

Call it whatever you want.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 20:27:15 -0000

is this question to me? because no I don't. I don't think this is a race issue at all. I think it is totally offensive that race was brought into this discussion. As usual, when people don't have a good basis for their argument, they resort to outlandishly accusing the other side of things like racism.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 20:28:51 -0000

write your council person. because 20 homeless advocates (many who don't reside in LB) are going to put on a show at the counil meeting tomorrow. You watch. Dave, I think you're in the second so write suja an email and let her know how you feel.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 20:58:13 -0000

You have an argument (albeit a crappy one) if you equate poor with minority races. I don't. I guess you're the racist.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:58:07 -0000

let me be more specific, I want people regardless of race with more disposable income to make up a greater percentage of our population in the city, particularly downtown. they can be all black, all white, all mexican, a mix, I really don't care. but I want them to be able to be able to pay for their own lives and not look to others for their housing, healthcare, and other social services. there will always be a percentage of people that need help in every city and that's why we have charity. I recommend you look into one. but when we have overconcentrations of people who can't take care of themselves like we are finding in LB these days, you start to risk losing the city. Tell me one prospering great city where half the people need government assistance to make it. You can't. Because they don't exist.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 13:19:11 -0000

Did someone bring up police and racial profiling or telling people they don't belong?

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 13:38:20 -0000

Is the consolitdation of the two places so that they can say a certain percentage of the sales are from food as opposed to liquor? I think this is a requirement for certain types of alcohol permits.

Re: CITY RACES THE CLOCK TO QUALIFY FOR HOUSING FUNDS

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:49:54 -0000

I see what you're saying but calling for higher wage earners should not be interpreted as calling for white people.

There are plenty of non-white people who earn higher wages. I for one would love to see them move to long beach and would love to see some of the lower wage earners (regardless of race) move to another city. I really think bringing race into this is just a way for some to try to silence a perfectly valid perspective.

Re: PARKING IS JOB ONE FOR ROBERT GARCIA

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 15:43:39 -0000

It's a good first project Robert. Everyone would support this initiative with little controversy I would assume.

However, I hope you don't wait long to dip your toe in less calm waters and tackle the real issues. You can start tonight by fighting against more low income housing in the city. Over the next couple of weeks you can push to get the breakwater study finished and into the next phase. And finally I hope you're lobbying hard for stimulus funding (or other funding) to filter debris before it gets into the LA River via the storm drains.

You campaigned hard on cleaning our beaches and improving quality of life. I know you'll keep those promises.

Re: PARKING IS JOB ONE FOR ROBERT GARCIA

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 18:08:18 -0000

don't know, but I beat it.

Re: OOOOF: BELMONT SHORE FIGHT CAPTURED ON YOUTUBE

LB Resident — Tue, 19 May 2009 18:38:36 -0000

I saw a council meeting on tv one time and it was a restriction place on a place applying for some sort of permit.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:33:21 -0000

police and fire need to contribute 15% to their pensions and they don't get a raise until the economy starts growing again. it's that simple. If they won't, we contract out.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Thu, 21 May 2009 10:18:43 -0000

tidelands are limited to the coastal region. It's a red herring anyway. give or take a little, we have the money to be a prospering city with the funds already in the general fund. we just need to stop bending over for unions.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:53:58 -0000

Very good idea. It will help going forward. But we still need to reform the existing pension contracts.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Fri, 22 May 2009 11:30:20 -0000

Interesting article in the LA times today. The LA police union is suing the SD Tribune to fire the editorial wriites because they don't like the position the writers take on pensions. These unions never cease to amaze me in how outrageous they can be.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-union22...
L.A. police union wants San Diego Union-Tribune editorial writers fired
Considering itself a partial owner of the newspaper, the union says those who 'run the editorial pages should be replaced' or provide more 'even-handed' coverage of labor issues.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Fri, 22 May 2009 15:28:39 -0000

More BS from the unions. When will it end...

lbreport.com

Union Rep'ing Non-Public-Safety City Employees (IAM) Will File Complaint w/ State Agency Seeking Injunction Against City Mgm't Advised, Council Majority Approved Furloughs

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Fri, 22 May 2009 18:13:45 -0000

I don't know John. Ultimately, I think we pay the majority of our public employees too much. Not necessarily in salary, but in generous pensions. Yes, we're inefficent, we're redundant, we have stupid services we shouldn't offer and all that needs to change too. But that doesn't change the fact that we can't afford to pay public employees so much more than private workers.

All of these lawsuits (police, machinists, whoever else is yet to come) really are shooting themselves in the foot. Do you think the employees know how much bad will they are creating with taxpayers? At some point even liberal Long Beach is going to vote some councilmembers in who will fix this. I think we're there and next election will be telling. Foster had 600k and couldn't even pass Measure I. Union money can only buy so much. And the "like city" argument for higher pay is bunk. All "like cities" are bought by unions. it's a little game the policians play where the bend over for the union and give the big contract so the next city has to do the same or fear being "under median". They are all overpaid!

You portray yourself as a Long Beach resident, supporter, etc who wants what is best for the city. Tell me the truth, yes or no, would you vote to reform your police contract so that everything stays the same except your pension contribution goes to 15%? If not, then it's hard for me to believe you're in this as a Long Beach resident.

Re: THE GREAT RECESSION

LB Resident — Sat, 23 May 2009 11:57:12 -0000

based on this post, it's likely we don't agree on anything. makes life interesting I guess.

Re: THE LEGEND OF BELMONT SHORE BAR PROBLEMS GROWS

LB Resident — Thu, 28 May 2009 19:19:35 -0000

I agree. It's weird. People complain about lack of police. then they do something about a knucklehead and people are angry.

Re: THE LEGEND OF BELMONT SHORE BAR PROBLEMS GROWS

LB Resident — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:28:38 -0000

I love Long Beach and I love Belmont Shore. The shore is a lot of fun, safe, and family friendly. It also has a good contingent of LBSU students which is a good thing. It adds energy. There certainly are a few bars that attract folks from outside the area. The kid who got shot by the officer was from Orange County for example. I hope this incident shines a light on the problem of out of town folks partying too hard and causing problems in an otherwise peaceful neighborhood. Then I will love Belmont Shore even more.

I really do think this is easily solvable. Put some police in the area from 12 to 3. That is it. The area is very quiet outside of this one timeframe. And you don't even need tons of police. It's not that big of an area we're talking about.

From the other postings it appears Delong is going to finally adress this issue. I hope there is a shift in police presence and we can finally put this issue to rest and get back to complaining about potholes.

As an aside, I know someone from HB and this is the exact problem that Huntington Beach has faced. Out of town folks were getting in fights, etc and the police supposedly cracked down on it. It seems to have improved over the last few months.

Re: THE LEGEND OF BELMONT SHORE BAR PROBLEMS GROWS

LB Resident — Fri, 29 May 2009 13:16:57 -0000

agreed. I don't get what the problem is. The excuse that they are needed in North LB is bull. Belmont Shore consumes very little yet contributes a lot. A couple of cops for 3 hours two nights a week is really not that much to ask.

Re: THE LEGEND OF BELMONT SHORE BAR PROBLEMS GROWS

LB Resident — Fri, 29 May 2009 13:18:15 -0000

I agree. A little perspective is due. Belmont Shore is one of the safest, nicest places in socal. This reaction is because the incidents are out of the norm and we need to as you say nip this now.

Re: THE LEGEND OF BELMONT SHORE BAR PROBLEMS GROWS

LB Resident — Fri, 29 May 2009 13:46:14 -0000

I am not at all upset he shot him. I want more police in the area at closing time. If that means people who take batons from officers get shot, so be it.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sat, 30 May 2009 14:20:56 -0000

The west part of the city gets more than their fair share of police presence (and other city services). I think we can justify a few police in the shore.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sat, 30 May 2009 15:42:13 -0000

if we don't keep order in the shore, and the terrible wealthy residents (who clearly don't deserve anything from the city in their neighborhood) decide it is no longer appropriate to live there, where will the west side get the tax revenue for all of the police and social services they currently consume more than any other part of the city?

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sat, 30 May 2009 15:45:04 -0000

the money from the parking revenue helps the shore businesses and residents. I for one am proud at the way 2nd street looks and how it reflects on the the residential neighborhood.

It is crumbs anyway. Gotta give something back to the tax base. If you put it into the general fund it will just be more east side subsidizing services for the west side. i say leave the parking meter money alone and keep it in the shore.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sat, 30 May 2009 23:26:36 -0000

the district is more liberal than the PT is conservative.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 00:01:43 -0000

so from what i've read, there has been an increase in police presence on 2nd st. the last couple of nights. This may or may not be a permanent change. and one officer at least will permanently have his hours adjusted to cover during bar closing time. If I'm correct then it appears things are going in the right direction. Yes I know it's early and we need to see consistency but I think recognizing a positive change has occurred and looking forward is more productive than all of us continuing to hash the wrongs of the past.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 10:03:00 -0000

I didn't do that. I was responding to the person who did.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 12:22:59 -0000

How do you know how profitable a private business is? Not trying to be argumentative. legends may be very profitable, but unless you see the books making the assumption is just that, an assumption.

Also, there is no reason for the city to help the "poorer" parts of town exclusively. We already overly subsidize said parts of town with more police and social services. If our gov't is going to get involved in private industry (and I am opposed regardless of where that may be) it seems only fair that once in awhile we do something for the tax generating part of the city.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 13:08:43 -0000

simple understanding of owning a business would help you answer your question. hypothetically assume business A generates positve cash flow and profit but at small margins thus the owner's take home is relatively modest and there is little ability to expand. Now the owner gets a loan, and buys business B. Adding business B with the exact financials as business A would again be relatively modest take home on its own but would double what business A does by itself. Without the loan he can't buy business B and has only 50% of the take home with business B. In a small margin business volume is important and theoretically he can't get volume without the loan.

Now, he may be making millions for all I know. But the restaraunt business is one of low margins so my guess is he is not. But you nor I really know.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 14:08:18 -0000

I don't think the public money should be given to anyone. Public money is for police, fire, roads, and other infrastructure. The problem is we start the slippery slope of social services and then business breaks and we end up with all kinds of gov't encroachment. Let's get gov't out of the private sector all together. We can start by ending low income housing and homeless services. Then you and I can partner to help others in need with charity as it should be.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 16:30:42 -0000

you have clearly no clue what caused the economic crisis.

but you may be right that legends makes a lot of money. I don't know.

by the way, businesses don't pay taxes. when you understand that, you might understand a small bit about economics. baby steps...

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 17:12:53 -0000

gov't raises taxes (or closes "loophole") on business. business raises prices. consumer pays for new tax.

businesses don't pay taxes. It's not a policy, good or bad. Its a fact.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 18:33:27 -0000

what protections are you referring to?

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 19:31:20 -0000

A lawsuit is ridiculous. You can't pull a baton from a cop and have any credibility regardless of the outcome.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Sun, 31 May 2009 19:58:40 -0000

I'm not he hasn't, I don't know. But when or where has delong said he wants to shift retail to bars to form an entertainment district on 2nd?

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:15:46 -0000

I agree with your proposed tactics, but comparing Irvine to Long Beach is apples to oranges. Irvine isn't even half the size and is nothing but cookie cutter tract homes. They have no real downtown (yes I know they have some tall buildings that are grouped together), no urban areas, and no entertainment districts outside of the spectrum which is a glorified shopping mall.

better comparisons would be cities like seattle or atlanta in my opinion. much more in common.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:32:11 -0000

I agree with your assertion that proper planning, leadership, and partnership are important to preventing and reducing crime. I believe that our LB gov't has not excelled in this area regarding belmont shore. That said, partnership takes two parties and it's still unclear to me whether the BSRA is excelling on their end.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:43:33 -0000

Mike Rhuele, you stated that delong has publicly said he wants to turn 2nd Street into a entertainment district and mimimize retail. I asked when / where because I have never heard him say this. You then said you heard it from others, not directly. I personally believe posting hearsay is inappropriate. When you post something people generally believe it is first hand info unless stated otherwise. I think this is an example of why some think your statements aren't always credible.

I'm not trying to pick a fight with you. I do think it is important for you to hear this perspective however. Anyway, you said you would get the people who heard directly to post or comment on this. I would love to see that information.

On another note, lbreport posted the criminal's name. Ernest Raymond Rodriguez. Is his father "somebody" as you posted earlier? I do not know but I guess we'll find out shortly.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:40:28 -0000

I have no desire or power to retaliate about anything to anyone.

Your quote was "This also makes it more difficult for Councilman DeLong to accomplish his frequently spoken about goal of turning Belmont Shore into an ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT for his commercial property owner friends who can charge twice as much rent for a bar/restaurant than they can get for a retail store."

I missed the part about you saying "i have been told".

I don't want to argue about it. I'm not even disputign whether it's true or not. I'm just saying there is a difference between hearsay and you explaining what you have heard directly. it would be nice to know what type of info we're getting.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:03:21 -0000

Here's the deal Mike, whether it was delongs fault or your fault, you personally no longer have an opportunity to work with delong. He has made that clear. You both have proven you cannot work together.

so if you want to run for office, go for it. Until then, for the benefit and good of shore residents I think you need to find a way to foster a relationship with the bsra and the council office. If that means letting someone else take the leadership role, so be it. It may not be fair, but it's selfish to continue fighting this battle with delong. because right now you're getting nowhere, the Shore is getting nowhere, AND THERE ARE SOME VERY VALID CONCERNS THAT NEED BE ADDRESSED.

he has the power because the residents voted him in. The problems may be 100% delongs fault. And if enough people think delong is the problem, then you'll be the new councilman in a year.

The thought of going another year with this he said / she said crap is really frustrating. It's annoying and worse nothing gets solved in the shore.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:14:55 -0000

I may agree but right now it doesn't matter. Mike can't get anything done. So someone else needs to be the face of the BSRA and then they can vote out delong next year. otherwise it will be another year of accomplishing nothing which hurts all shore residents.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:22:13 -0000

why don't you let someone else take these suggestions to delong and see what he says? (Personally, I think some seem workable and some don't.) It doesn't matter if you have already done so because as we've agreed, delong won't talk to you. And yes, he should listen to you, but he won't. so rather than stay your current course which isn't helping you or the residents you say you serve, why not try a different approach and maybe something will actually get done around here.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:43:57 -0000

what I think (based on these posts and the emails mike has shown from delong) is that mike's presence (right or wrong) with delong is a non-starter.

I think it is imperative that shore residents continue to push delong to make some adjustments, but doing so with Mike as the face gives delong the excuse to ignore the feedback.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:52:47 -0000

because delong won't change and he won't be gone until next year at the earlies. trying to be pragmatic and get something done around here.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:53:33 -0000

give them to larry jordan and have him present them at the meeting and report back on what delong says at that specific meeting.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:32:41 -0000

I have. He said he won't talk to mike. So thus my suggestion. take away delong's excuse to consider and act on the feedback.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:25:36 -0000

the last thing I want is the 500k taken from the belmont shore area and put in the public coffers where the council can spend it on healthcare, daycare, and low income housing subsidies.

I would like residents to have more input on how the 500k gets spent in the shore however.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:35:37 -0000

That was funny and I respect your sarcasm even though you hate me.

Re: BELMONT SHORE BAR SCENE FINALLY DRAWS A CROWD OF COPS

LB Resident — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:40:59 -0000

I'm not going to push a rock uphill for a year. delong will be judged soon enough.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:58:28 -0000

Would you mind sharing some of the suggestions that have been presented and ignored by Kojan? I have heard this complaint before but never had any insight to what people want that he won't do.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:48:55 -0000

I don't live downtown. Have never dealt with the guy. Don't know much about any of this other than what I've read in the paper. That is why I asked the question. I didn't say anything positive or negative about him because I don't know anything about it. Sheesh.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:23:38 -0000

can you or anyone else share a couple of the rejected ideas?

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:21:27 -0000

whatever. I just wanted to know the ideas because I thought they may be good. forget I mentioned it.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 10:53:32 -0000

The reasons the roads are falling apart is not because of parking meter revenue losses. The tax paying citizens send their money to the general fund and it is used for social services, low income housing, and other non-core services. Mostly it is used for overly generous pension funds for our public employees. This is why the roads are falling apart.

I am very happy that parking meter revenue generated in belmont shore and downtown for the matter stays in those areas. If it didn't it would just be wasted on crap in other parts of the city where very little tax money is generated.

You certainly could argue the parking meter money revenue could be allocated better (marketing vs. infrastructure vs. police, etc). That is another discussion.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:42:51 -0000

I know the rant Mike. I've heard it before and agree with some of it.

That said, I want that money to stay in the shore. some of it is spent on resident quality of life. I argue nice looking shops, medians, and clean sidewalks, trash pickup, etc on 2nd are benefits to local residents.

Again, we could look at spending some of that money on security, etc. in the shore. But don't bite your nose off and lose that money to the general fund where it will truly be wasted on non-shore expenditures.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:25:21 -0000

whether it's 10% 20% or 80% it is more than if it goes to the gen fund.

vote for a council member who will be open to reallocation of parking meter funds. All I'm saying is putting that money into the general fund is the worst of all possible outcomes.

Keep the money in the shore!

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:32:33 -0000

"Parking meter money is now spent on buying existing private business parking lots, public art, pressure washing sidewalks, landscaping, a drinking fountain, trash collection, concrete work so that commercial properties can rent out the sidewalk to businesses (why doesn’t the rent go to the city?), design work for an out of scale "Belmont Shore" signs to hang advertising on and other nonessential items."

some of these are good things. I'm glad they pressure wash the sidewalks and do landscaping. I wish they would do more.

again you should fight to get more control over the projects that are funded. you should absolutely not fight to have this money go to the general fund where it will be wasted and wasted outside the shore.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:18:30 -0000

again, I agree with you on the allocation of the money. It should be spent on roads, infrastructure, police, landscaping, alley work, etc.

I don't agree it should go to the general fund. It should stay in the shore.

it really isn't that complicated. Instead of looking for ways to say gotcha why don't actually listen to what I'm saying. we're not that far apart on this.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:20:34 -0000

vote for a councilmember who will support more resident input on how the parking meter revenue is spent

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 17:20:59 -0000

I consider pressure washing sidewalks and landscaping medians part of infrastructure. I'm happy they do that on 2nd st and wish they did it on all main thoroughfares. I especially find it a benefit to residents. I enjoy the above average asthetics of the 2nd street infrastructure including the nice median and clean sidewalks.

I couldn't be happier that taxes generated in the shore are spent on that in the shore. I do agree that they should also use the money for more police in the shore.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 19:40:34 -0000

very good point

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 10:13:03 -0000

don't care. I believe city employees are overpaid related to private employees. most private employees dont even get pensions. regardless,doesnt matter. the current pension system is not sustainable and needs to change.

Re: DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES PETITION DLBA TO FIRE KOJIAN

LB Resident — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 23:06:17 -0000

i feel totally safe in the shore. one shooting was because an idiot tried to steal a baton from a cop. I don't do that. another was a targeted shooting between two people that knew eachother at 3 am in a non-residential area.

I agree the shore could be improved. but it remains a very safe place. we need to nip these problems in the bud but lets not get overly dramatic.

Re: ON THE FAST TRACK

LB Resident — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:59:08 -0000

This article seems to imply that Foster is pushing this ordinance to win support from local residents. Isn't that what he is supposed to do? Don't we elect people to put policies in place that we like? I'm not sure what the controversey is.

On another note, Uranga is the worst councilmember in the history of long beach. her positions are the most bankrupt and detrimental to long beach of any including bonnie lowenthal.

Re: FLAT TIRED

LB Resident — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:28:02 -0000

you are too much.

Re: FLAT TIRED

LB Resident — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:12:45 -0000

I figured. Nice one!

Re: “IT’S ABOUT TIME THEY START BUILDING UP THE SIXTH DISTRICT”

LB Resident — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:18:11 -0000

While Larry can be a crazy person... It's hard to argue against his point. Snoop at worst is a convicted felon. No? He does say some things in his songs that make it difficult to endorse him as a role model. No?

I hope this project gets completed. It will provide a glimmer of hope. But just a glimmer. No matter how many of these investments we make I just don't see how the opportuntiy for inner city children improves until we see a material decline in unwed mothers, teen pregnancy, etc. and a material shift in views toward education which again requires a strong family unit.

When folks realize that if you finish high school, don't do drugs, get a part time job in high school to start building a network, don't have children until married and don't get married until mid 20s you will absolutely not be poor. You may not be rich. But you will be self sufficient and have the opportunity to be a productive citizen.

Seems so simple. But this is where Larry has a point. Is Snoop encouraging this recipie or leading children down the wrong path?

Re: “IT’S ABOUT TIME THEY START BUILDING UP THE SIXTH DISTRICT”

LB Resident — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:45:37 -0000

OK, then I misunderstood Larry's point.

Regarding atonement, I'd prefer snoop to donate hard cash but more importantly come out and say to young people "I made mistakes. I participated in and glamorized a lifestyle that I should not have. If you want to be successful, start with lbresident's prescription above as there is very little chance any of you will end up being rapers, yet you all have a great opportunity to being productive, self sufficient citizens."

Re: WHY WON’T DLBA COMMENT ON ‘FIRE KOJIAN’ PETITIONS? IT STILL HASN’T RECEIVED THEM

LB Resident — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:26:33 -0000

What should have been built specifically instead of cityplace and the pike?

Re: WHY WON’T DLBA COMMENT ON ‘FIRE KOJIAN’ PETITIONS? IT STILL HASN’T RECEIVED THEM

LB Resident — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:27:22 -0000

I think walmart was a bad decision too. but that doesn't answer my question. Everyone always gripes about what is there. But should have been built there?

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:44:17 -0000

We did vote down Measure I. But we approved the school bond.

Chris S. already took a voluntary paycut. It's time for the teachers union for once in their life to do something for students instead of themselves. Take a paycut.

Teachers fight pay for performance, they fight vouchers, they fight anything that makes it easier to fire bad teachers. They fight anything that would actually help students. Maybe they could stop being selfish this one time.

If you want to know why LBUSD is so much better than LA unified, one reason is our school board isn't bought and paid for by the teachers union. Of course the one clown who is voted against this resolution. What a surprise.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:47:34 -0000

Maybe he should take another 10%. I don't know.

Regardless, he is not the problem. The teachers union is the one who opposes every single solution to making schools more efficient/better. The only thing they care about is more pay and benefits. And it's a self fullfilling structure. When it makes no difference if you're a great teacher or a terrible teacher in terms of pay and it takes an act of God to fire a teacher, you're asking for a broken system.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:21:18 -0000

Good point. They shouldn't be approving these retreats.

The teachers are guilty too as I imagine "staff" refers to teachers. and my guess is the union would scream if these retreats went away. If they are teachers going on these retreats then the teachers are hypocrites again.

shouldn't approve them anyway whether it's teachers or other.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:52:24 -0000

These are the same things the teacher union always says.

The education industry is no different than any other. The board should be governing the district and that is where their authority should stop. Pricipals should be in control of schools. Teachers should be in control of classrooms. Measuring teachers is somewhat subjective just like every single other profession. Teachers should be free to leave schools and work for other principals and principals should be free to fire teachers if they feel appropriate. There will be some politics but again this is no different than any other industry. It works because when you have competition and freedom, people are motivated and results matter. As it stands, results are meaningless.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:42:08 -0000

uranga is horrible. I don't know the details of her idea but I know enough about her to know I wouldn't support it.

I think the answer is simple. Remove beauracracy. Put principals in charge of schools and teachers. Put teachers in charge of classrooms. Results are tied to pay for everyone. No more tenure, etc. You'll never get the teachers union to go along though.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:54:02 -0000

The other union backed board member is mike ellis. He doesn't go to board meetings anymore from what I've read. He apparently broke some laws awhile back and almost got kicked off the board. I don't remember the specifics but he was a big controversy.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:51:56 -0000

the teachers union can't control the structure of pay, their public opposition to vouchers, and the criteria for firing bad teachers?

interesting, i didn't know that.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:56:53 -0000

unlike you, I'll keep the name calling out of this.

I don't hate unions. They serve a good purpose in some cases. However, I do think they have become increasingly detrimental to job creation, growing the economy, and in many cases their own members with their policies against accountability, results, performance, etc.

One only need to look at the industries that are dominated by unions to see their effects. Auto, airlines, government. All in the crapper. All totally run by unions.

Study up my friend. Don't let facts get in the way of your love for the liberal agenda.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:43:32 -0000

you need to read the posts again. I didn't just bring that up. It was the central piece of my comments.

And yes the union has the opportunity to bargain. they have been successful in their bargaining. Their policies have been enacted and consequently there have been negative effects on schools. The union does a good job of benefitting teachers. Unfortunately they harm children in the process.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:46:39 -0000

specific policies that hurt children and schools that the teacher union support:

1. The teachers union violently opposes any pay for performance structure.

2. The teachers union opposes vouchers.

3. The teachers union opposes charter schools.

Now go do some homework or at a minimum read my posts so you know something before you start getting all emotional with your hatred of ceo's, companies, and other folks who pay the bills.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:15:10 -0000

Rather than solely blame lack of regulation, I think government intervention played a big role in the banking systems problems. Fundamentally the problem started because the governement wanted to give out loans to people who shouldn't be eligible. By the way both democrats and republicans encouraged this lest you think i'm being partisan.

But yes, you are correct. the banking industry took a crap without the help of unions. My point is still valid that unions have pushed and secured structures in many industries that has been devistating. Pointing out one industry the crapped without unions is meaningless. You can even find evidence within an industry. Look at the airlines dominated by unions and the ones that aren't. who's doing better?

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:54:16 -0000

You don't know much. The reason is you don't actually internalize what I have written or think deeply about these issues. You simply spout of irrelevant criticisms about talk radio. It's much more fun to have these discussions with howardx. I disagree with him too but at least he is informed and seems smart.

Yes, many teachers care about children. Teachers can have a great, positive impact on children. However, the policies their union support have a negative impact. I named three. Go do some research so you're informed and see if you agree after studying the policies.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 09:16:51 -0000

Teachers can be evaluated by principals based on annual objectives (not necessarily tests) like every other job in the world.

Vouchers enable competition which is the key ingredient for successful orgs in any industry.

Charter schools work because they are free to make decisions based on results. They are not beholden to tons of union and admin beuracracy.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 13:35:22 -0000

dude just because others have similar thoughts doesn't make them wrong.

Re: TOUGH TIMES AHEAD FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES?

LB Resident — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:05:14 -0000

John, I am critizing the teachers union and their policies. Different than criticizing teachers although teachers are typically brainwashed to support those policies from very early on in their careers.

Your experience reading at schools is noble but doesn't give you better experience in evalutating the teachers UNION policy.

Your obsession with talk radio is interesting. I may have some similar views as some talk show hosts but I assure you they are my own thoughts as I don't listen to rush limbaugh as you have suggested. There really is no debating that lack of competion, socialistic pay structures, and tenure are policies that generally hurt our schools and thus children. The only time thing the union cares about is pay for teachers and protecting teachers. the only time they really fight/strike is when pay is at stake. When is the last time teachers went on strike to demand anything other than pay. They made hide it under the cause of smaller classes but all that is to prevent layoffs. That is their job and they do it well. But they have convinced many that they care about the "children" as they always say but their policies would say otherwise.

So go read to students. It doesn't change the facts and it obviously hasn't provided you with a perspective that would help you see the light.

Re: ‘FURLOUGH FRIDAY’ FOR CITY EMPLOYEES THIS WEEK

LB Resident — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:16:50 -0000

4 days to get city services is plenty. I bet not many people even notice.

And if the employees don't like it, they can call the POA and tell them they want pension reform.

Re: ‘FURLOUGH FRIDAY’ FOR CITY EMPLOYEES THIS WEEK

LB Resident — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:09:24 -0000

public employees of course don't see it that way. why should they have to participate in the economy as the private sector.

Re: ‘FURLOUGH FRIDAY’ FOR CITY EMPLOYEES THIS WEEK

LB Resident — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:18:16 -0000

Does the council have the will to tell the unions "no"?

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:34:39 -0000

Horrible idea. If you want more money, reform pensions. Don't turn our parks into a booz fest! I don't care if it's only for special events. The only motive is money and we don't need to sacrafice for more money. Our greedy employee unions do.

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:17:15 -0000

It's a disingenuous choice. We don't need to sell alchohol to keep parks open. We need to reform pensions and cut out the wasted spending on non-core services.

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:27:05 -0000

I am a broken record. I am also correct.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:46:15 -0000

that was funny

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:27:27 -0000

I would hope not.

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:17:11 -0000

Damn that was well said!

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:33:34 -0000

Or, keep your home because Long Beach is a great place to live and we simply need to be diligent and improve a few things. Not to cheerlead, but I love Long Beach. It's a great mix of coastal, suburban, and urban neighborhoods. It has wonderful homes that don't all look exactly alike. There are walkable neighborhoods. And at least in my neighborhood and the neighborhoods around me it feels like a very close knit community. Yes there are some issues but there are issues everywhere. Where would I go? Some cookie cutter housing tract in oc? No thanks.

Re: CITY MULLS ALCOHOL SALES IN PARKS

LB Resident — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:37:13 -0000

I'm family oriented and love long beach. i think it's a great place to live. It's a tight community with lots to offer. The only way to avoid some of the issues you mention is to leave California. I'd rather not and I don't think that makes me dumb. The positives outweigh the negatives and I have lived in a number places across the US.

Re: BOEING’S SEA LAUNCH FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:45:25 -0000

The satellite industry is tough. The demand never came to fruition as there really are only a few uses that favor satellites over terrestial communication. The consolidation of the early 2000s helped but ultimately there is still too much capacity.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:49:02 -0000

I post there too and sometimes it take 15 minutes sometimes it takes longer than a day. I bet it's simply a bandwidth issue for staffing and nothing sinister.

Also, when they say approve, i bet they are screening for profanity, etc. not opinions.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:25:31 -0000

You need to knock it off. Report the facts if you want but leave behind the inuendo.

I typically agree with your complaints about legends and the other bars and that something needs to be done to limit the number of alcohol selling establishments, moving closing time closer to midnight, and increasing police presence. All very good objectives Mike!

But you are now acting irresponsible. Rapes happen in every single area like the shore. In a one year period there were 4 rapes according to you in the shore. In a one year period here is what the count is for "like areas" (where there is nightlife in upscale coastal areas):

Manhattan Beach - 2 rapes
Newport Beach - 4 rapes
Hermosa Beach - 12 rapes
Huntington Beach - 29 rapes

It is irresponsible to suggest that the shore is unsafe or on the onset of a serial rapist.

Yes. There are problems. Drunks are loud and inconsiderate and sometimes there are fights. You list the problems on every message board regardless of topic. I appreciate the effort you are putting toward improving 2nd Street but you lose credibility when you paint the place as a war zone full of murderers, rapists, and destruction.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:26:27 -0000

by the way, 1 rape is too many.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:50:43 -0000

I was reacting to the insinuation that belmont shore is unsafe and facing another serial rapist.

As far as the disclosure of the rape, I don't have an opinion yet. Part of me agrees with you that it would be nice to know immediately. Part of me thinks that rapes are isolated incidents and it's better to wait until all the facts are in before disclosure.

and the commander does work well with every neighborhood group but yours. You are the anomoly. don't take that as I am blaming you. there is a problem with delong and your relationship. i'm not sure how to fix it. you both need to give. neither of you seem open to that.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:21:40 -0000

No it wouldn't. The only area that is somewhat of an outlier is Huntington but it also has over 7 times as many rapes. I purposely chose those areas because they are all very similar.

It doesn't matter. My point is that you are painting a false picture of safety in the shore. You can make your case for reforming the bars without making it seem like you take your life into your own hands if you dare visit second street at night.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:24:31 -0000

I don't know whether there is collusion but I do know given the current facts he shouldn't be suggesting we may have a serial rapist on our hands. It's irresponsible.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:34:17 -0000

I believe in the last 3 years there has been a single murder. I believe it was determined to be between people who knew eachother (not a random act of violence) over a girl.

Regarding rapes, I don't believe there is a material difference from year to year. I don't know this for a fact but based on the pieces of information I've read it appears to be consistent year over year and consistent other upscale areas with nightlife zones.

That leaves robbery as the variable in the spike over the period in question. Could it have anything to do with the faltering economy? That seems more likely than blaming it on Legends.

All of that said Mike, Legends is responsible for the loud drunkards, puking on lawns, etc. You don't need to go down the road you're going to make your point that we need some adjustments to 2nd street regarding certain bars. Again, you're not doing any of us a favor by falsely making the place out to be something it isn't. But you are hurting your credibility and I wish you wouldn't because I support your goals for reform.

Re: BEHIND THE MUSIC

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:04:02 -0000

just so you know, I'm the real lbresident. And I didn't make that comment to howardx.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:42:10 -0000

Just to back up my claim that the shore is consistent with other like areas below are the populations which are all very similar. (I didn't do huntington because it would take too much time to segment it.)

Shore/Heights - population 23,000
Hermosa Beach - population 18,000
Manhattan Beach (west of sepulvada)- population 25,000
Newport Beach (92663 ie where the bars are and where the rapes occured) - 22,000

Ultimately, 1 rape is too many. But lets focus on goals of reform on 2nd street without mischaracterizing the place as an unsafe have for violence.

Re: BEHIND THE MUSIC

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:43:26 -0000

touche!

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:09:31 -0000

this article seems to show the correct perspective. There were two rapes in the area in 2008. there have been 2 in 2009. Seems like there really hasn't been an uptick but again we should all have the goal of zero.

http://www.presstelegram.com/breakingnews/ci_12...

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:05:03 -0000

so if we don't have any more rapes in 2009 we'll be flat and you'll stop complaining? No, you won't. Because the rape statistics basically show no change. The real problem is the drunks, puking, pissing, etc. and that will still be here without some reform. Keep your eye on the ball is all I'm asking.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:10:35 -0000

violent crime has not increased dramatically.

I am not afraid of you quoting stats. But I am afraid of you painting my town unfairly. If there is a problem, fine. Let's acknoledge and fix it. But we don't need to create a perception of problem where one doesn't exist.

I think you want the bars closed earlier or maybe completely. (I actually agree with earlier closings.) But I also think you are trying create the perception that the shore is unsafe and violent and the bars are at fault to push this agenda. I don't think you need to do that. There are enough true problems like drunks pissing, puking, etc in people lawns and occasionally bar fights that spill outside. Stick to those issues and we'll ultimately get some reform. When you branch out and try to make the case that the problems are about murder and rape anyone who knows the facts knows you're wrong and it looks like you're distorting to push the agenda.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:13:34 -0000

there are 8400 people in the shore. There are another 10,000 in the heights. These are facts. No need to tweak.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:16:44 -0000

and I estimated the fringe area to get to 23k but even without that 18k still puts the population in the same range as the other areas I quoted.

There is no conspiracy here Mike. I just think you need to focus your efforts and stop trying to create the illusion that we all live in hell.

Re: MORE “BE CAREFUL”

LB Resident — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:29:49 -0000

Worse than the national enquirer.

Re: MORE “BE CAREFUL”

LB Resident — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:47:25 -0000

While related but admittedly not apples to apples, this is an example of outstanding reporting.

http://www.lbreport.com/news/jun09/bsrabys.htm

But I know, you guys do "opinion journalism".

Re: MORE “BE CAREFUL”

LB Resident — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:52:30 -0000

my bad..."point of view" journalism.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 23:56:29 -0000

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:07:16 -0000

there are 2 groups that don't like delong.

UPE "leadership"- due to home depot. though many residents in UPE supported home depot.

Shore "leadership" - due to bar realted issues; again some residents support delong

the other problem he has is the breakwater. generally everyone in his district wants to reconfigure it except some old people on the peninsula

other than that delong gets pretty high marks from his district; my bet is he gets re-elected pretty easily unless there is a delong clone that supports reconfig of breakwater. that guy would beat him. we'll see.

Re: POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN SECOND STREET RAPE

LB Resident — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:30:16 -0000

My guess is those who live in the shore, naples, etc are going are going to love the sharrows. The people who work downtown and go home via 2nd St. to other cities will hate them. Too bad!

Re: MORE “BE CAREFUL”

LB Resident — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:40:02 -0000

belmont shore is not dangerous. it's ridiculous to say that. there are of course crimes just as there are everywhere. but relative to other places, even safe places, belmont shore is safe. I'm tired of people with agendas trying to use the few crimes that happen in the shore to paint a negative picture.

and no, it's not the girl's fault in any way.

Re: CATCHING UP WITH SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS

LB Resident — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:36:44 -0000

It would be funny if it weren't so infuriating. the teacher's union blesses us again with their infinite wisdom.

Re: CATCHING UP WITH SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS

LB Resident — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:37:11 -0000

ok, it was funny anyway...

Re: CATCHING UP WITH SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS

LB Resident — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:37:45 -0000

it is. I think I read there was a vote by the other board members to remove him but it was a 2-2 vote. Obviously the 2 union owned board members voted to keep him. If I'm wrong, someone can correct me but I'm pretty sure that is what went down.

It's frustrating because even with the union presence relative to other school board's LB has a pretty good one save this clown.

Re: FOUND: SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS!

LB Resident — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:50:57 -0000

"It depends on what the meaning of the word 'is' is."

Re: FOUND: SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS!

LB Resident — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:21:11 -0000

I think politicians get so wrapped up in their jobs and egos that they forget to keep a relationship with their wives. Amazing how many times this happens.

Re: FOUND: SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL SHANE ELLIS!

LB Resident — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:48:45 -0000

I'll throw you a bone. You know how conservative I am. Well I think the republicans are worse on this because they typically make an issue of morals, etc. They are much more hypocritical.

I think the way back for the repubs is to focus on the big umbrella of liberty. Domestically, you are free to make money, free to keep your money, free to put whatever lights you want in your house, free to be free. Overseas, we spread the word freedom and stop supporting dictatorships. Obviously the devil is in the details but I think those should be the tenants. It's fine to be a social conservative. I am myself in many ways but emphasizing freedom should be our core.

Re: MOBILE HOMELESS GRADUATE

LB Resident — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:22:01 -0000

I'm not sure what point of this story is. There must be a point since TDW is a self proclaimed "point of view" magazine. Hopefully I'm not supposed to feel sorry for this kid. His future(like his present situation) depends on his choices and nothing else. That is why America is the greatest country in the world.

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:20:26 -0000

just another example of how little the police care about long beach. they don't live here. they just get paid here. this council better stand up for long beach taxpayers starting with this lawsuit and more importantly this coming budget. the unions need to be taught they can't have ridiculous pensions and wages in exchange for ruining our city.

Re: MOBILE HOMELESS GRADUATE

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:53:30 -0000

If her point was that people are accountable for themselves and when they fail it is almost exclusively entirely their fault, I agree. If her point was that there is something false about the American Dream and the various opportunties we all have, I disagree. Or maybe she is just asking the question. But that wouldn't be very District Weekly of her now would it...

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:22:55 -0000

I would love if our local journalists would get the list and find our the home cities of each of the officers. I'll be shocked if more than 25% live in Long Beach.

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:37:58 -0000

why can't this publication do some of that research? I appreciate it goes against their political slant but it would be nice gesture toward the tax paying public.

they don't have to name names. simply list the percentage of police employees who live outside the city limit. My bet is it would be a powerful statement to union owned city council.

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:07:05 -0000

I think the district has a liberal bias. This would include union support.

If they can get the names, a people search would get the addresses.

Re: MOBILE HOMELESS GRADUATE

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:09:00 -0000

Very professional.

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:18:06 -0000

one who doesn't live in LB probably doesn't care too much whether the roads are paved, the parks are kept, the beaches are clean. Just pointing out that our officers high pension compensation is directly in conflict with our quality of life.

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:31:30 -0000

Is it a coincidence that John lives here?

Re: CITY ATTORNEY SEEKS FUNDS TO KEEP FIGHTING LBPD OFFICER LAWSUITS

LB Resident — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:57:54 -0000

when you take into account the purchasing of politicians, pressuring to overpay in pensions, and general disregard of our quality of life from carpetbagging police, it's tough to get real excited about jumping to their defense so they can get paid overtime to get dressed. Mix in an economy where everyone in the private sector is getting laid off or taking pay cuts, the police look pretty bad right now demanding a 13% raise for next year's budget when the city is $40 million in the hole.

I love the police. I really do think they have a noble profession and appreciate that they risk their life for me. But all public employee unions have gotten way out of hand and the police save maybe the teachers have taking the lead role.

Re: THE $43 MILLION QUESTION

LB Resident — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:51:55 -0000

the net is the police and fire need to come to the table.

by the way, I don't think the $23M is really a "pay cut" for employees. Rather, I think it represents forgoing raises.

we can't reform pensions fast enough...

Re: THE $43 MILLION QUESTION

LB Resident — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:57:55 -0000

I really don't like Arnold but darn if he (or his staff) didn't write a great piece in the LA Times today. The situation in Sacraemento is very similar to the one in our city (and probably many others). He talks about fruad and waste in calworks and other welfare programs but the part that really rings home:

"By simply taking another 60 seconds to return pension formulas for new hires to their pre-1999 rates, we would see a savings of nearly $95 billion in reduced pensions by 2040, with more billions to be saved beyond that."

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/...

Re: THE $43 MILLION QUESTION

LB Resident — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:34:48 -0000

that is frustrating. not that this will make you feel any better but on the way to work this morning driving through huntington it was a disaster. people are just irresponsible. I would love to see the police go on a targeted ticketing campaign for littering.

Re: THE $43 MILLION QUESTION

LB Resident — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:36:55 -0000

driving down pch from warner to 17th along the road wasn't pretty. probably picked up the trash on the beach by then but the roadside didn't look like it had been yet.

Re: NEW OWNERS FOR DOWNTOWN’S VAULT 350 NIGHTCLUB

LB Resident — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:53:38 -0000

I believe the key to downtown success is making it a place that all of Long Beach wants to be. Only then will folks outside LB want to be there.

This means East Long Beach residents must prefer downtown to other options. You need soccer moms from El Dorado Park, yuppies from Belmont Shore, and students from CSULB to go downtown and spend money.

This means higher end retail is required as everyone knows. It means the perception of safety has to change.

This club could be a positive influence. Playing rap all the time (if in fact that is the plan) will hurt. I'm sure this comment doesn't sit well with some and I will be accused of all sorts of ridiculous things. I don't care.

While there have been improvements in the downtown demographics, the majority wealth still resides in East Long Beach. All great downtowns draw folks from their own suburbs. We need to do that as well. That is why I actually thought the ice rink was a decent idea. I have small children. If it seemed family friendly I would take my kids there (as I do the aquarium). I might even stay for lunch. Before you know someone opens up a toy store and so on and so on and it becomes a place to spend the day.

We need to stop catering to the poor otherwise we'll always be a downtown with a Walmart and nightclubs.

Re: NEW OWNERS FOR DOWNTOWN’S VAULT 350 NIGHTCLUB

LB Resident — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:44:07 -0000

Black Flag.

But it's not really a race issue. It's a money issue. Monied visitors are required regardless of race. Where do you find those in LB? Right now, East Long Beach. They are predominantly white but that is not the drawing card. It's their credit card we want.

Do you disagree that existing rap and latin clubs bring in an undesirable element? You'd know better than me as I haven't found much to lure me to downtown to observe first hand.

Re: NEW OWNERS FOR DOWNTOWN’S VAULT 350 NIGHTCLUB

LB Resident — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:37:17 -0000

Maybe the other poster made it a race issue but I didn't say those things. I don't think it is or should be about race. I indicated I think downtown would benefit from visitors with more disposable income. There is large opportunity in East Long Beach if downtown would cater to them. I don't imagine rap clubs accomplish that.

I'm sure I'll get blasted for this. Instead of blasting I would appreciate if you would assume I mean no harm, don't consider myself racist, and maybe just take the opportunity to enlighten me.

My perspective is a viable downtown requires young singles, retired empty nesters, and DINKs. It's preferable for them to have moderate to high incomes. It is also required to have a family friendly environment for suburban folks to visit. I used to think the existence of homeless hurt downtowns. I've since started to think as long as homeless aren't catered too and they are not permitted to harass people that cities can overcome a homeless population. An example is SF or Seattle.

However, what I still believe is a deal breaker for downtown viability is lack of perceived safety and lack of disposable income. Thug looking people are a deal breaker. The few times I've been downtown I have felt uncomfortable with the number of loitering thug looking people. Yes, they were black and latino. I do not want to push a stroller down pine and get stared at by a bunch of thug looking people. I don't think my comments are racial. Race may correlate but it is not the driver of the issue. The issues are money and safety. There are plenty of black and latino people who do not embrace a thug look and have disposable income. We need to set up shops for them. Do rap clubs help do this? Does affordable housing help do this? Or does good infrastructure? Clean beaches? Safe environments? A good mix of retail? Whether you're black, white, or latino, my guess is your income and careers drives your desires more than your race.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:31:15 -0000

I don't care who's study is used. Just reconfigure that thing and let's get going. There really is amazing support for this. There is a small and dwindling vocal minority on the peninsula and port interests opposed. The vast majority of LB is behind this and we need to be heard. Anecdotally, I live in the supposed "danger zone" and most of my neighbors support reconfiguration.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:39:24 -0000

Ridiculous.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:49:40 -0000

Dave I agree with you. But the worst solution is to do nothing. Unfortunately there are some old folks who live on the peninsula who want the breakwater untouched. I also think the port (powerful lobby) wants the breakwater untouched. And then there are the crazies worried about global warming. I think removing the whole thing is a political non-starter. But reconfiguration whether it be holes in certain places or Bud's plan is a real possibility. It may not be perfect but it would be 100 times better than the current situation. I would hate to see us get nothing in search of perfection.

Re: GARCIA’S ORDINANCE: WHAT PART OF ‘EQUAL’ DON’T PEOPLE UNDERSTAND?

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:54:56 -0000

What I find most interesting is that Robert campaigned on clean beaches, litter removal, better infrastructure, and better fiscal management.

Since he's been in office he's focussed on parades for latinos and gay rights.

Not necessarily bad things but certainly not top priorities considering his campaign promises and the current $40+ million budget deficit.

Bait and switch...

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:58:14 -0000

I think water quality is a must and waves are strongly desired. Getting nothing is not acceptable.

Re: GARCIA’S ORDINANCE: WHAT PART OF ‘EQUAL’ DON’T PEOPLE UNDERSTAND?

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 17:45:44 -0000

thank you for the response. However, I have heard nothing on the following from Robert:

Prioritizing funds for catch basins along the LA River and throughout the city in the coming budget

Prioritizing funds for fixing more streets and sidewalks in the coming budget

Commenting on the need to reform employee pensions so they are defined benefit not defined contribution and so that employees contribute more to their pensions

Prioritizing funds for litter removal along our beaches and main corridors throughout the city

Sorry, but I get his press releases / read the papers and I've seen one on a parade and now this gay rights issue. I appreciate the work he is doing for Pacific Ave which is longer term but the above topics are all issues he can comment on and act on right now.

If he has and I missed it, please send the link.

Re: GARCIA’S ORDINANCE: WHAT PART OF ‘EQUAL’ DON’T PEOPLE UNDERSTAND?

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:10:20 -0000

That's what I thought. Hopefully we'll see better focus from Robert going forward. All politicians have their pet projects so I don't hold this against him but we need to see him deliver on the key city issues as well.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:10:43 -0000

cover blown. arguments are so far from credible. you are either part of the port or the small, old folk contingency on the peninsula. Come on, LB is better off because people don't want to go there? Right...

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:33:42 -0000

I didn't say it was easy. I just said global warming concerns is an absolutely ridiculous reason to object.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:37:07 -0000

If someone with pro pension reform, pro infrastructure, and anti low income housing/other non-core services positions ran against gary and vowed to take a leadership position for reconfiguring the breakwater, I vote for him/her. That person has yet to surface. gary at least at face value says he is open to bud's and similar ideas.

Re: THE $43 MILLION QUESTION

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:32 -0000

Interesting data:

Currently, the total contribution for a miscellaneous employee making $100K a year is 20% of his/her payroll or $20,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,000 and the taxpayers contribute $18,000. For public safety employees making $100K a year, the total contribution is 25% of his/her payroll or $25,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,500/yr., and the taxpayers contribute $22,500/yr. Pensions now account for $80Million of the General Fund and will continue to compound yearly. These figures were for 2008; we don't know what they are for 2009 or will be for 2010. We only know they will be much higher.

Pension costs are the reason Long Beach continues to have a Structural Deficit. It took Scharzenegger too long to confront the issue with the California Legislature; we can only hope some common sense will jump start a discussion on pension reform in Long Beach.

Governor Scharzenegger threatens to hold back signature on any new legislation until the structural deficit is fixed in California, and that means reform, including pensions. If Mayor Foster is truly honest about his statement in his interview with Art Levine, telling Mr. Levine that the employees know the pensions are not sustainable; what is holding the Mayor back in doing anything meaningful to fix Long Beach's structural deficit by reforming pensions?

Re: GARCIA’S ORDINANCE: WHAT PART OF ‘EQUAL’ DON’T PEOPLE UNDERSTAND?

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:01:36 -0000

Where does robert stand on this:

Currently, the total contribution for a miscellaneous employee making $100K a year is 20% of his/her payroll or $20,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,000 and the taxpayers contribute $18,000. For public safety employees making $100K a year, the total contribution is 25% of his/her payroll or $25,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,500/yr., and the taxpayers contribute $22,500/yr. Pensions now account for $80Million of the General Fund and will continue to compound yearly. These figures were for 2008; we don't know what they are for 2009 or will be for 2010. We only know they will be much higher.

Pension costs are the reason Long Beach continues to have a Structural Deficit. It took Scharzenegger too long to confront the issue with the California Legislature; we can only hope some common sense will jump start a discussion on pension reform in Long Beach.

Governor Scharzenegger threatens to hold back signature on any new legislation until the structural deficit is fixed in California, and that means reform, including pensions. If Mayor Foster is truly honest about his statement in his interview with Art Levine, telling Mr. Levine that the employees know the pensions are not sustainable; what is holding the Mayor back in doing anything meaningful to fix Long Beach's structural deficit by reforming pensions?

Re: VOTE ON LINE TO LOWER THE BREAKWATER

LB Resident — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:49:39 -0000

Yes. This is most important.

Re: FROM LBREPORT.COM: WHAT ICEBERG?

LB Resident — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:17:46 -0000

We need to reform pensions.

Currently, the total contribution for a miscellaneous employee making $100K a year is 20% of his/her payroll or $20,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,000 and the taxpayers contribute $18,000. For public safety employees making $100K a year, the total contribution is 25% of his/her payroll or $25,000/yr., of which the employee contributes $2,500/yr., and the taxpayers contribute $22,500/yr. Pensions now account for $80Million of the General Fund and will continue to compound yearly. These figures were for 2008; we don't know what they are for 2009 or will be for 2010. We only know they will be much higher.

Pension costs are the reason Long Beach continues to have a Structural Deficit. It took Scharzenegger too long to confront the issue with the California Legislature; we can only hope some common sense will jump start a discussion on pension reform in Long Beach.

Governor Scharzenegger threatens to hold back signing any new legislation until the structural deficit is fixed in California, and that means reform, including pensions. If Mayor Foster is truly honest about his statement in his interview with Art Levine, telling Mr. Levine that the employees know the pensions are not sustainable; what is holding the Mayor back in doing anything meaningful to fix Long Beach's structural deficit by reforming pensions?

http://longbeachtaxpayers.org/tools/blog.dwp?ta...

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:39:18 -0000

It's a concern. Hopefully it doesn't end that way.

Re: DIED-AND-GONE-TO-HEAVEN GOSPEL FEST TODAY

LB Resident — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 14:04:07 -0000

Awfully tolerant aren't you.

Re: DIED-AND-GONE-TO-HEAVEN GOSPEL FEST TODAY

LB Resident — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 21:40:30 -0000

you hope so

Re: SLEEPLESS IN NORTH LONG BEACH: BRAD SHORE A CANDIDATE FOR 9TH DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:24:25 -0000

Pass.

"I’m a ... APFA Union member"

My goodness has this city not learned anything. Any notion of union support should be an immediate disqualifier. Anything dominated by a union fails.

Airlines? check
Auto? check
State and Local Governments? check

Pressburg or Lerch are the choices as of now.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:12:42 -0000

again, this is not a surf issue. It's a water quality issue. And Bud's plan seems to make substantial improvements to water quality for about $10M. That is doable. If we get small waves, that is icing on the cake.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:53:52 -0000

Flushing it out to sea is not the end game. The river must be cleaned as well. But reconfiguring the breakwater and cleaning the river should be both be done and failure to do one should not hold back the other. Do both as soon as possible.

I think I'll wait to see the study rather than take your analysis as to what would happen in Bud's plan.

Re: SLEEPLESS IN NORTH LONG BEACH: BRAD SHORE A CANDIDATE FOR 9TH DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:32:07 -0000

I personally wouldn't disqualify someone just because they are in a union. Many professions have virtually no choice.

But I will not vote for someone who I believe will advocate for unions in policy decisions. So union endorsement is a red flag for me.

I'm assuming because this person lists that he is a union member he thinks that is good thing and supports union policies. I could be wrong. Hopefully he'll come on here and correct me if I am. I went to his site and couldn't find much specifics.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:32:01 -0000

given that moffat and nichol counts the port as a big customer you're probably right.

Re: SLEEPLESS IN NORTH LONG BEACH: BRAD SHORE A CANDIDATE FOR 9TH DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:19:34 -0000

It's sad what unions have become. They used to serve a purpose and help people like your father.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:21:30 -0000

What? I think opening or lowering part of the breakwater will increase circulation and improve water quality.

The Moffat report says that isn't true?

Re: GARCIA WILL GO WITH THE SLOW

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:25:44 -0000

What is the parking structures for the poor project?

Re: GARCIA WILL GO WITH THE SLOW

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:31:00 -0000

The question is why doesn't Councilman Garcia feel the same sense of urgency for pension reform, prioritizing infrastructure over non-core services, and cleaning our beaches.

I understand he's only been in office a short time. But I think it sends the wrong message when his impatience is centered around social engineering projects and not solving the problems government is supposed to solve.

I still believe in Robert. But he's testing his credibility. I really hope he doesn't become just another uranga or lowenthal.

Re: GARCIA WILL GO WITH THE SLOW

LB Resident — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:07:58 -0000

I'm not going to slag the guy for trying to improve the parking situation.

Re: FISHING POLL

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:44:03 -0000

Watch the entire tax base disappear if God forbid uranga ever became mayor. Holy crap that is a scary thing to contemplate. Even Long Beach can't be that stupid I don't think.

Re: FISHING POLL

LB Resident — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:48:00 -0000

There is another site that is asking for bold ideas regarding LB's future. I posted these ideas that could be implemented with a simple council vote. Where is the mayoral candidate who will buck special interests and lead us on the following:

Improve Reputation of the City
1. Reconfigure the breakwater and to be a credible 'Aquatic Capital of the World'

Improve downtown demographics to reduce burden on social services and attract higher quality retail
2. Use all RDA funding to tear down cracker box apartments and replace them with grass
3. Eliminate the Housing Authority. Offering subsidies for low income housing ensures you'll attract more low income people.

Cut Non-Core Services and Spend Wiser
4. Eliminate the health department and contract to the county as virtually every other city does.
5. Reform pensions so that employees pay a minimum of 50% of the pension contribution (this year that would save about $20M)
6. Contract services out as much as possible and stop subsidizing daycare, healthcare, and affordable housing.

Improve Quality of Life
7. Prioritize spending on infrastructure (streets, sidewalks, and alleys)
8. Clean the LA River (catch basins, storm drain screens, etc.) 9. Beautify main artery streets by landscaping medians
10. Restore the Los Cerritos Wetlands

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 22:40:30 -0000

I would love to see the project developed under the following principles:

1 tower of 6 stories allowed; the rest are 2 and 3 stories
a botique hotel is the key component
all traffic mitigated
no more than 100 residential condos (gotta give the developers something)
if there is room for retail fine if not that is fine too
I want a whole host of entitlements (nice new fencing along the los cerritos channel, landscaped medians from the freeway all along studebaker and on to 2nd through the end of naples. landscape all the pch medians from seal to bellflower)
I want burms with greenery built up along studebaker to hide the home depot/power plant site

in the end, this is a prime piece of property, taki sun is going to make a ton of money and we shouldn't let them get off without doing a great local community serving project.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:16:38 -0000

I agree. This type of project (lots of retail, etc.) belongs across the street at Marketplace. The seaport should be a botique hotel. Marketplace will be redone soon and that is where we can put the upscale retail many in the community desire.

Also, I saw that on the website about open space counted as the balconies. What a joke.

I actually met with the developers early on and had high optimism they would do the right things. Clearly proposing a 12 story building is a slap in the face and destroyed their credibility. There are differing views on need for condos, hotels, retail, etc but unanimously I have never heard a person or community group support anything close to 12 stories. It's insulting to even propose it.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:10:04 -0000

I agree.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 12:38:37 -0000

for those that weren't there, can you proved the highlights at that meeting?

Re: A LITTLE ‘Q’ AND A WHOLE LOTTA ‘A’ WITH POSSIBLE COUNCIL/MAYORAL CANDIDATE TERRY JENSEN

LB Resident — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 17:41:02 -0000

does he favor reconfiguring the breakwater?

Re: A LITTLE ‘Q’ AND A WHOLE LOTTA ‘A’ WITH POSSIBLE COUNCIL/MAYORAL CANDIDATE TERRY JENSEN

LB Resident — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 17:48:08 -0000

I just had a really scary thought. Terry and Bob split votes giving the election to ...Tonia. God help us. Might as well pack up and leave if that happens.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:49:44 -0000

retail should be in marketplace. But the reason marketplace doesn't do as well as it should is not because of lack of customer base. There is plenty of money to spend in 90803,90815,etc. The problem is marketplace needs to be reconfigure. Most people including myself don't even know what is in there becasue it is inward situated. And the parking lot is a madhouse. Fix those two things and marketplace will do just fine.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:19:29 -0000

The developers want condos. That is how they make money.

The community and Coastal Commission want a hotel. That is why it is there. The hotel is the least attractive part for the developers.

Many in the community said they wanted high end retail. That is why it is in the project. The developers would rather have condos than retail. More money for them.

Nobody wants the height except the developers. There are lots of opinions on the mix of retail, residential, hotel, etc. But one thing is unanimous, nobody wants the height. These developers started out saying the right things but ultimately they ended up slapping us in the face with this 12 story proposal.

Re: GET READY TO VOTE ON ANOTHER PARCEL TAX

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:53:20 -0000

This is tough. So much waste in the school system. Teacher union policies ruining education. And then they want more money from us. If we give it to them, they keep up the crappy behavior. If we don't our kids suffer. What a pickle.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:58:38 -0000

Personally, I want a little high end retail but in Marketplace. I don't think we need more housing. I vote for a hotel with a signature building up to 5 stories on the south end and the rest 3 or lower. Maybe like you said a couple restaurants for the hotel.

Re: A LITTLE ‘Q’ AND A WHOLE LOTTA ‘A’ WITH POSSIBLE COUNCIL/MAYORAL CANDIDATE TERRY JENSEN

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:26:36 -0000

I don't understand the slam on "anti-tax" folks. People who work and contribute to society should not be punished for doing so. Anyone who looks at budget situations across the country knows we have more than enough revenue and have taxed our producers enough. It's time to cut back spending and waste. I don't think that makes anyone anti-tax. It just means people understand economics and at this point more taxes are not helpful or the answer.

Re: 2ND+PCH TRAFFIC GOING FROM BAD TO CURSE?

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:55:05 -0000

You realize that if you add the areas you talked about it comes to about 200k people. That is bigger by about 5x most surrounding cities. Also, the Nordstrom receipts in South Coast are 15% from 90803. The money is here. The right location is not. Marketplace could be it (especially with SB right next door) but it needs to be reconfigured.

Re: A LITTLE ‘Q’ AND A WHOLE LOTTA ‘A’ WITH POSSIBLE COUNCIL/MAYORAL CANDIDATE TERRY JENSEN

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 -0000

I don't agree with a lot of what you said. I'm not going to argue with you though. Neither of us are going to change our perspective or conclusions.

Re: EXCLUSIVE: TOM DEAN SELLING MINERAL RIGHTS TO LOS CERRITOS WETLANDS ON OPEN MARKET

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:12:08 -0000

I'm all for a swap. I even can to some extent support "overpaying" as I don't care if Tom Dean benefits or not. But what I never could reconcile was not getting the oil rights. If we're going to do something we should actually do a deal that restores the wetlands! Oil wells all over the place is an incomplete solution from my perspective.

Re: EXCLUSIVE: TOM DEAN SELLING MINERAL RIGHTS TO LOS CERRITOS WETLANDS ON OPEN MARKET

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:33:25 -0000

The seal beach portion was much smaller and grant funded in better economic times. I doubt we get that chance for the LB portion any time soon. Thus a land swap makes the not feasible a bit more feasible. But I maintain if we're going to do it we need to solve the problem. Buying a swamp with no opportunity to get rid of the wells is not solving the problem. Agree with Gerrie on this one.

Re: EXCLUSIVE: TOM DEAN SELLING MINERAL RIGHTS TO LOS CERRITOS WETLANDS ON OPEN MARKET

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:59:07 -0000

Although this will be unpopular let me speak to timing. I want the wetlands restored. But everday I drive by that dump, developing it looks more and more appealing. I know others feel the same way. So let's restore the wetlands. But let's get on it. It's looked like crap for 30 years and many are sick of it.

Re: EXCLUSIVE: TOM DEAN SELLING MINERAL RIGHTS TO LOS CERRITOS WETLANDS ON OPEN MARKET

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:24:33 -0000

do the swap, but include the oil rights. use the oil rev and enviro grants and port mitigation to restore the property.

If it's not realistic then lets just turn it into a park. Leaving the property as is for another 25 years is not an option from my perspective.

Re: GET READY TO VOTE ON ANOTHER PARCEL TAX

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:44:14 -0000

did you ask your friend why her union opposes many of things necessary to cut waste like merit pay and making it realistic to fire bad teachers? Did you ask her why her union opposes vouchers? did you ask her if she thought teachers were overpaid given they start around 50k, work only 3/4 of the year, and retire at an early age with a pension they don't contribute much to?

Look there is a ton of waste in the administration, but teachers are part of the problem too.

Re: A LITTLE ‘Q’ AND A WHOLE LOTTA ‘A’ WITH POSSIBLE COUNCIL/MAYORAL CANDIDATE TERRY JENSEN

LB Resident — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:30:57 -0000

I do not agree with your analysis of what happens and does not happen as it results to tax policy.

Re: GET READY TO VOTE ON ANOTHER PARCEL TAX

LB Resident — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:27:20 -0000

Nobody said teachers created the economic mess. That is a red herring. What we said was that teacher union policies are destructive to efficiently educating students. You made a lot of irrelevant points but did not address the on topic concerns many have over teacher union opposition to merit pay, making it easier to fire bad teachers, and vouchers.

And goodness Ms. Schipske, are you really going to defend teacher pensions by saying other public employee pensions are worse? Don't even get me started on the greed in the police union.

Please start focussing on how you and your colleagues are going reform pensions and cut social services so as a city we can focus on core services and make our city better.

And stop blaming the economy. The spending strategies executed over the last 15 years are a problem with or without a down economy.

Re: BAD NEWS FROM SACRAMENTO

LB Resident — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 12:50:31 -0000

I don't object to any of the cuts in the proposed state budget. There actually should be more cuts and pension reform. That would enable us to fix the longer term problem as opposed to including accounting tricks and city/county borrowing as was done in this year's proposal.

Re: BAD NEWS FROM SACRAMENTO

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:02:00 -0000

Juan, you are absolutely correct. But Gerrie (and most other council members) are complete slaves to the unions. So don't bet on pension reform.

Until we as a city start electing officials who are not running for office with the support of union money, we will continue to hear excuses of a bad economy, not of enough tax revenue, prop 13 is the problem, etc.

It's frustrating with Gerrie in particular. On one hand she can be such a great homeowner/resident advocate but on the most important budget issue (pension reform) she is unwilling to advocate for reform.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:05:42 -0000

Agree. Love him or hate him Gary has the political skills to do just about anything he wants. He needs to start leading the charge on breakwater reconfiguration.

Re: SURF’S UP!

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:37:25 -0000

That is a positive perspective. I hope you're right. I was thinking they had a lot to lose as the Port would be a big customer of theirs and likely opposes doing anything since we'll look to the Port to pay for reconfiguration.

Re: BIG WAVES COMING TO U.S. OPEN OF SURFING THIS WEEKEND

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:29:40 -0000

the study is up...

Re: BIG WAVES COMING TO U.S. OPEN OF SURFING THIS WEEKEND

LB Resident — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 22:40:16 -0000

I think the only option that should not be on the table is the do nothing option. It's time.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:29:04 -0000

The breakwater study confirmed we can reconfigure the breakwater and protect coastal properties, the port, and oil islands, etc. It also confirms there would be financial benefits to the city and dramtic increase in quality of life.

We must vote for city officials that will take a leadership position in advocating with the federal government to move forward on reconfiguration. These officials must also take a leadership position in securing funds to do the work whether it be tidelands, the port, the private sector, grants, or some combination.

It's time to become the Aquatic Capital of the World as our council says we are.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:03:09 -0000

Unfortunately if you read Schipske's blog, she is now no longer interested.

I appreciate her candor, but I took away the same thing as you Dave. It can be done. You can protect the homes, port, etc. It will improve the situation. And the Feds would be interested due to eco restoration.

The big hurdle is money and lobbying the Fed. The mayor and council need to lobby the fed. And the money can be solved in a number of ways and one option may even be a bond and new tax dedicated to this. Everyone knows I hate liberal taxation but at least this tax would change the face of Long Beach for the much better.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:36:06 -0000

She believes there is no federal interest and no money. I believe federal interest is determined by actual people and people can be lobbied. I also believe money could come from the port who caused the mess and even if need be a bond similar to measure I in structure but not in process. This only happens if we have a mayor and full council lobbying and making it a priority. It will determine how I vote from here on out.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:55:05 -0000

The money will come (port, new tax, grants, private sector, etc). We need the mayor and council to lobby the fed to agree to this. It's that simple. And again, the Fed are real people. People can be lobbied. We spend money, even more than this, on all kinds of things.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:22:51 -0000

Gerrie just sent out a great email asking for support. I'll send to TDW and hope they post.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:43:52 -0000

harbor commissioners are appointed and removed by the mayor. get a mayor that support this. you get a port that supports this.

Plus, if the port wants to grow, they need to clean up the mess they've caused.

The money will come. It takes leadership, not excuses.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:07:21 -0000

The port has caused the lack of wave circulation. They need to correct that or be sued and prevented from further expansion.

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:28:06 -0000

the bud johnson study claimed the port cut the tidal flow down but the breakwater reconfig would fix it. the port should pay if that is true. agree the la river needs to be cleaned up too.

Re: BAD NEWS FROM SACRAMENTO

LB Resident — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 17:46:35 -0000

Gerrie, you know that anything can be negotiated. The mayor opened up the contract to give the police a raise a few years ago (which I believe you supported). If he can open it up for that, he can open in up to require employees to split the pension cost. But he and the council need to be prepared to outsource and layoff employees if the unions don't comply otherwise the unions will call your bluff.

And I support the new tier for new employees. But I don't even see that being talked about seriously. All we hear is it has to come from sacramento so it's state wide or LB won't be competitive. That's crazy. Even gov't employees need work these days.

Re: BAD NEWS FROM SACRAMENTO

LB Resident — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 16:22:43 -0000

If the unions thought half their workforce might be layed off would they not be open to negotiating. And we can contract out most functions as a whole. Prop L doesn't preclude that.

Re: WETLANDS LAND SWAP TERMS CHANGE AGAIN

LB Resident — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:08:42 -0000

The more I think about this the more I don't like it. I don't care if Tom Dean makes money. I don't care if we "overpay" for the land as I fall in line with the "it's hard to quantify the value" camp. But I do care that we solve the problem. And without aquiring the oil rights I fear we'll get this land in city hands but it will look exactly the same for 30 more years. In my mind, if we can't restore it and get rid of the oil wells, we haven't accomplished anything.

Re: NOT THE COLUMN WE’D MOST LIKE JOHN GREET TO WRITE

LB Resident — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:41:03 -0000

That pretty much says it.

Re: GOING TO BED WITH A PRICE ON HIS HEAD

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:12:31 -0000

Once again, fantastic job teacher's union. (sarcasm alert)

Re: BREAKWATER 101

LB Resident — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:24:07 -0000

Fascinating audio on how to move forward and why the Port should pay for the work.

http://www.lbreport.com/news/jul09/bkwat3.htm

Re: HUELL WHORE-SER?

LB Resident — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 17:25:43 -0000

Most people don't like the RDA because they don't like the types of projects they do architecturally, etc. I don't like the RDA because I oppose affordable housing on many levels and without the RDA more money would be available for core government services (Streets, sidewalks, etc.)

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:48:08 -0000

I think the gang of six talk is non-sense. I think all of the council looks for ways to move their agenda and that means negotiating for votes from other council members. This is standard (right or wrong) and happens at all levels of gov't including Congress. While certain councilmembers may vote similarly a lot of the time and I'm sure there is horsetrading, I think it mostly has to do with common philosophy, agendas, etc.

I can think of important issues that rebuke the gang of six theory starting with the breakwater.

Re: FLASH–MICHAEL ELLIS TO RESIGN SCHOOL BOARD

LB Resident — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:14:08 -0000

Let this be a lesson for those of you that live in this district. Please do not vote for another teacher union supported candidate.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 16:23:07 -0000

You just lost any amount of credibility you may have ever had with the Tonia comment. She is the worst. End of discussion.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 22:32:00 -0000

This city does not need more low income housing, subsidized daycare, or subsidized healthcare. LB also needs to fix the pension problem. Tonia would be an absolute disaster on all of those issues.

I am all for protecting our coast. I support strongly reconfiguring the breakwater. But just because somebody was on the coastal commission does not mean they are remotely qualified to be Mayor.

So far the only person you've mentioned that may be better than Foster is Terry Jensen. I'd like to hear his position on the breakwater and how he plans to improve our infrastructure.

Re: THINKING ABOUT LEARNING ABOUT TESLA MOTORS

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:09:50 -0000

Usually it's pretty clear why councilmembers vote a certain way. Politics as usual. For the life of me, I can't figure out why Suja voted no on this.

Re: THINKING ABOUT LEARNING ABOUT TESLA MOTORS

LB Resident — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:30:34 -0000

In Gerrie's defense, it's not like city management openly shares information. Gerrie mentioned she asked about her fire station and Pat West said it wasn't on the block. Then Gerrie finds out otherwise in public. She has a right to be skeptical.

Re: THINKING ABOUT LEARNING ABOUT TESLA MOTORS

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:01:51 -0000

Gerrie, as I said above, I support you looking into this. I read your blog. If the city is close to securing the movie studio and talking to Tesla would put this in jeapordy, then the lack of effort on Tesla makes sense. But again, simply a little communication from city management would go a long way.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:40:38 -0000

Yours is the logic of someone who has no idea about how the economy works, how business runs, or what our founders intended for our government to provide.

Gov't is to provide infrastructure, a military, and public safety.

Charity is to provide social welfare services.

To confuse the two is to end up with the liberal disaster of a state we call California.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:54:16 -0000

I'm an expert in everything. Don't you know that is why I post on a message board.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:55:16 -0000

agreed.

Re: TRUE TO HISTORICAL FORM, COUNCIL APPROVES LAND SWAP WITH CONNECTED DEVELOPER, 5-4

LB Resident — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 23:31:33 -0000

I realize the wetlands is important to you. It is to me. But there are more important issues. And Tonia is the biggest sellout of them all on those issues. She is 100% owned by labor and homeless/poor interest groups to the demise of Long Beach.

Re: “CURRENT PENSION LEVELS ARE UNSUSTAINABLE”

LB Resident — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:39:19 -0000

And people wonder why we have a huge budget deficit. It's not the bad economy which the council likes to blame. It is because our union owned council agreed to this stuff.

Great we're finally talking about it. It does not go far enough but it is a start.

Not surprised at all that Uranga could care less about taxpayers and focusses her concerns on employees and their union.

Imagine how many streets we could fix, beaches we could clean, parks and library budget increases we could make if we took the small step and simply required employees to contribute to their pensions equally with taxpayers. My goodness, the private sector doesn't even offer pensions anymore.

Re: “CURRENT PENSION LEVELS ARE UNSUSTAINABLE”

LB Resident — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 18:45:32 -0000

Don't overplay Mike. Of all the councilmembers Delong is the closest on this topic.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 18:52:14 -0000

Clearly these people want some status but it is sort of ridiculous. Island Village is located in a not so attractive, semi-industrial area. It's isolated and regardless of its city, it isn't going to be viewed as upper crust as stated. Long Beach or Seal Beach doesn't matter. Naples, Peninsula, Belmont Shore for example have more status than Island Village regardless of the county. Heck I'd argue Naples and the Peninsula have more status than Seal Beach.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:30:37 -0000

I wonder if the services required from Island Village cost more than 300k annually.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:03:38 -0000

All it takes is a couple fire/police calls each year and there goes the $300k.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:05:01 -0000

Joie DE Vivre is the proposed hotel. The developer is Ratkovich and Malmuth.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:11:23 -0000

I agree. We shouldn't be adding 300 condos to that site.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:08:06 -0000

I shouldn't have said that. I apologize. The problem is not Island Village. It is the surrounding area. I (as I suppose you do) would love to see the surrounding area cleaned up. A few burms and strategically planted trees would go a long way.

Re: ‘ENOUGH IS ENOUGH’–3 COUNCILMEMBERS ASK TO STEP UP BUDGET

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:18:30 -0000

Delong said he supported holding more budget meetings.

Re: ‘ENOUGH IS ENOUGH’–3 COUNCILMEMBERS ASK TO STEP UP BUDGET

LB Resident — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:20:30 -0000

I think Uranga behaves totally contradictory to my quality of life. She supports low income housing, homeless services, and subsidized daycare and healthcare. I believe all of these things detract from my quality of life for a number of reasons not the least of which is sacraficing budget on public safety and infrastructure.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 11:01:46 -0000

Suzanne Browne should go focus on ruining the city she lives in and leave Long Beach alone. We do not need more low income housing in this city. We have done more than enough. Time for other cities to share the burden.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 12:43:42 -0000

do not hate or fear them; dumb comment

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:24:40 -0000

I check in every day. I hope your appreciation is sincere.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:44:26 -0000

By the way, I posted a couple times over the last 2 days and the posts did not show up. Technical problem? (note: I am not accusing you of censoring. I think either your server had a problem or I must have something weird going on at my end.)

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 16:55:37 -0000

There are so many problems with affordable housing and you touched on one. It is not sustainable for LB to continue importing poverty.

The truth is we should not even have a LB Housing Authority. If we leveraged LA County's Housing Authority instead of having our own, we would not see the oversaturation of low income housing in LB as it would be spread more evenly throughout LA County. And we do this by choice. There is no requirement for LB to have its own Housing Authority.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 18:11:02 -0000

those cities really support low income housing.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 19:32:14 -0000

Let's get rid of the redevelopment agency. We do not need more low income housing in LB and I would love to keep the prop tax rev in the gen fund for core services instead. And your publication and followers are always complaining about how the redev agency kills all the character in the city. So let us just get rid of the Redevelopment Agency and the Housing Authority and get government back in the business of fixing streets, cleaning beaches, and paying for adequate public safety.

Re: A CHILLING RDA EDITORIAL

LB Resident — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:54:53 -0000

Thanks Theo. Could you find out how much money LB would get directly contributed to the general fund if there was no RDA? You have listed the contributions/benefits of the RDA. I wonder what we lose in terms of available money for core services.

Re: A DIFFERENT KIND OF ENGLISH CLASS

LB Resident — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:16:07 -0000

Great story. Regarless about how we feel about illegal immigration, this is a story (at least what I know of it) of people voluteering through the private sector and people trying to make their lives better without asking for a handout. Props all around.

Re: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

LB Resident — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:50:09 -0000

To be fair, SB has budget problems too. And up until 2 years ago every street outside of the Old Town streets were a mess in SB. They must have passed a bond or something because 2 years ago they re-did a bunch of streets.

but point taken, SB is nice. If I were IV, I would feel pretty good. You get to be in 90803 or SB. I would probably stay in LB because the thing that could improve IV the most is a connection to Marketplace and beyond. They need a sidewalk and to landscape the medians along 2nd from IV to PCH to provide a nice walking/bike path to 2nd and PCH corner. Only LB would agree to fund that. It might come if and when something ever gets developed at Seaport.

Re: RDA WILL BE ASKED TO DELAY USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:22:12 -0000

Got to look at the definition. Affordable housing to them is new housing that has its price artificially lowered through taxpayer subsidies so people who don't make enough money to buy at market prices can afford it. It is a horrible policy on many levels.

Re: A CHILLING RDA EDITORIAL

LB Resident — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:51:30 -0000

I don't think so. I could be wrong but I think the money the state sets aside actually comes from property taxes. If we didn't have an RDA, a portion of the prop tax would go to the LB Gen fund as is the case with non redev areas in lb. Having an RDA area allows more of the prop tax money to be kept so long as it is used for rda purposes. I'm trying to find out how much that increment that would go into the gen fund would be.

Re: A CHILLING RDA EDITORIAL

LB Resident — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:38:39 -0000

Thanks Dave. Very helpful. Isn't it also true that without a redev agency part of the prop tax on that original $1000 assessed value would go to LB's gen fund which pays for infrastructure and public safety? If yes, by having a redev agency, LB benefits by keeping the "Tax Increment" that must go toward specific projects in the redev area but the non-redev areas of the city lose a contribution to the general fund, correct?

Re: RDA UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES USING HOUSING FUND TO PAY STATE

LB Resident — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:56:19 -0000

If we didn't have the RDA wouldn't that mean more money to the gen fund for which to hire a police officer or two?

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:26:51 -0000

I don't care what is "intended". The reality is this will be a disaster. I'm continuously amazed at the level of idiocy some of our councilmembers exhibit. It's like they won't be happy until we become a third world.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:39:34 -0000

Actually LB's other alternative is to tell people to take charge of their own lives, make good decisions, priortize, or turn to charity.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:44:55 -0000

And if they parked in front of my house I would call the police and the person would have to leave. I'm not looking to make the police's job easier. While that is nice, neighborhood quality of life is the most important. We heard the same stupid argument for housing sex offenders in the same apartment complex. "It makes it easier to keep track of them." Enough is enough. Dee Andrews and the rest of the liberal council need to stop looking for ways to give more hand outs and make life easier for people who make bad decisions. Rather, they should be looking for ways to encourage people to take some responsibility and change their living situation for the better if that is what they so desire. They can start by creating an environment that supports job growth and improves quality of life for tax revenue generating residents.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:59:21 -0000

Don't judge. That is Jesus's job I think.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:59:49 -0000

I am comfortable with my karma.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:13:59 -0000

Yep. You pegged me.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:39:10 -0000

I have read enough of your posts to know that while I don't agree with your perspective on most things, you're not an idiot. You're actually likely very smart. But your need to sterotype me (incorrectly I add) is hypocritical.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:09:54 -0000

government and charity are not the same

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:20:56 -0000

Dave, I give you a lot of credit for writing this. I know a lot of your readers will be unhappy.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:22:11 -0000

charity>gov't. see katrina

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:24:54 -0000

And someone please send this to susanne brown.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 18:54:29 -0000

If the $20M is accurate, then Long Beach taxpayers spend $8M in an effort to import poverty to the city and that doesn't include the other non-housing subsidies.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:00:22 -0000

Jack says " If the first Long Beach applicant doesn’t qualify, go to the next one. If eventually you have to take someone from Lakewood, that’s OK.”

But actually, if the point is to build affordable housing because because there is existing need then you should never take someone from Lakewood. At that point you will have solved the problem and you can stop building low income housing.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:25:50 -0000

Well Dave, if you and I were in charge, yes, we could. But we keep electing yahoos who think Long Beach's single purpose is to pay for housing, healthcare, daycare and every other social service for every person in the country.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:34:31 -0000

I'm glad you stand behind electing bonnie, tonia, etc. Maybe my comments about you being smart were premature.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:49:02 -0000

I'd hardly say that is accurate. I bet if you looked citywide you'd find more votes in total for the conservatives on the council than the liberals. Heck I bet Gary and Gerrie alone got more votes than the rest of the council combined. LB's problem is a leftist crazy can get elected in some of our district's with 500 votes yet they have equal say in how the council votes.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 20:58:44 -0000

Look it up yourself.

Gary says he's a moderate republican.

Gerrie says she is a moderate democrat. I'd argue she is fiscally very conservative.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 21:10:07 -0000

couldn't resist. Gary and Gerrie combined for over 14,000 votes. Robert garcia got 1,007 and Dee Andrews got less than 1,000. Rae got 1,060. That's as far as I went but basically I'm right, and you're wrong.

Re: A HOME FOR A NIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:06:58 -0000

It is not true that there is nothing they can do. In fact I have personally called and watched police arrive to do something. Even though you don't believe in Delong maybe you could get someone to bring it up with him. If the police are saying that then they need a talking to.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:15:53 -0000

I already did the work for you. Instead of being difficult just to be difficult just say thanks. If you don't trust me that's fine google it yourself. My hunch was correct. No big deal.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:48:31 -0000

in this case, yes, that is correct.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:37:24 -0000

maybe it's happening in every city, I don't know, but the median income has been rising year over year in just about every LB zip code.

ultimately I think some of us on this board care a lot about the city and fixate on a lot of the negative things. but lb is a great place to live for a diverse set of people. I think a lot of people justifyably like living here.

Re: THE NEVER-ENDING EQUATION

LB Resident — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:42:39 -0000

It would take a few hours preferrably over a few drinks to have this conversation. My hypothesis is we could find some common goals to agree on but would struggle to find agreement on very many approaches to reaching those goals.

Re: DISTRICT MAY CALL SPECIAL ELECTION TO REPLACE EX-SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER ELLIS

LB Resident — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:58:50 -0000

barton and ellis were both elected with teacher union money. I'm just saying...

And since you love links I remembered to get one for you this time.

http://www.goarticles.com/cgi-bin/showa.cgi?C=1...

Re: A CHILLING RDA EDITORIAL

LB Resident — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:53:29 -0000

Thanks Gerrie. Do you support looking at eliminating the RDA and Housing Authority? I believe the LB Housing Authority can be eliminated with a council vote and we can start being part of the LA County Housing Authority in short time. Not sure how we end that. Council vote as well?

Re: A CHILLING RDA EDITORIAL

LB Resident — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 23:30:27 -0000

Dennis Thys indicated that if LB chose not to have its own housing authority then much of the money spent on section 8, etc housing would be spent across LA county as opposed to in LB. I personally think that is good because I think LB spends too much on section 8 and other low income housing and it serves as a drawing card for people from other cities who drain services rather than contribute to the pot. I also think housing subsidies cause a number of other problems and do little to solve anything. So why should I as a LB resident care if the power is ceded to LA county?

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:59:04 -0000

This article is filled with invalid assumptions.

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:45:46 -0000

Which parks and streets are you referring to?

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:06:07 -0000

Did the red cross, church groups, etc or the gov't respond more efficiently during the Katrina disaster?

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:23:24 -0000

Right. Democratic controlled gov't is efficient and Republican gov't isn't? Seriously, you have to do better than that. That is plainly absurd. Gov't is inefficient regardless of who is in control.

However you are correct about one thing. I object to many of the proposals you support because of my ideology and more importantly because I don't think they work.

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:43:47 -0000

Hmm. I disagree. I think it was pure gov't incompetence. Had nothing to do with idealogy in my opinion.

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:54:28 -0000

I don't defend bush. it is ultimately his fault.

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:05:48 -0000

that isn't how we usually do it. plus if I agree to do that we would be agreeing on something. let's keep going.

Re: LIVING LIKE AN ECONOMIC REFUGEE

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:32:14 -0000

nice

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:34:51 -0000

Should have been no raise given the budget, economic climate, and private sector situation. But still, we continue to focus on salaries when the discussion needs to be about pensions. The police could have meaningful raises if they like all city employees would finally agree to fairly contribute to their pensions. The current situation is not sustainable. In all of this one the worst parts though not surprising was uranga's continue commentary and support for employees while never caring even one ounce about the tax paying residents she represents. She is just awful. And while I like Ms. Shipske for a number of reasons she better get religion on pensions pretty quickly or I think she will have trouble getting re-elected.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:39:45 -0000

It would be even more ridiculous than when he originally said it.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 20:16:36 -0000

You have a pet peeve and it is distracting from the issue that needs solving.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 10:31:56 -0000

I think it is great that Belmont Shore has a little bit of money that must be spent in Belmont Shore. We can argue about the projects but the last thing I would want is to lose that money to the general fund to subsidize some worthless program. The $1M or so dollars is irrelvent to the cop issue. The only way to make a big enough impact on the budget for more police and better infrastructure is to reform pensions.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 12:32:11 -0000

Yes. I want sidewalk carvings, signs, landscaped medians and a whole bunch of other infrastructure and beautification projects in the shore. And I make no apologies for it. In addition I want adequate police coverage across the city. And guess what, if we reform pensions in a reasonable way, both are possible.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:04:48 -0000

I'm all for using the fund for more police in the shore. Maybe I misunderstood you but I thought you were arguing for abolishing the parking meter, etc funds and having the money go to the general fund. That is a horrible idea in my opinion.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:36:28 -0000

You don't always have to be so confrontational. If you meant keep the funds in the shore through the assessment districts and parking meter funds but just allocate some of the money toward police in the shore then we agree.

Re: SOMEHOW, CITY MAKES BUDGET-SOFTENING DEAL WITH LBPD

LB Resident — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:54:10 -0000

I apologize. I misinterpreted what you said.

Re: SHORE’S 9TH DISTRICT CANDIDACY GETS TWO QUITE DIFFERENT ENDORSEMENTS

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:33:16 -0000

I don't know a lot about these people but from what I do know as of now it sounds like Pressburg is the best. Will need to see more specifics about their plans going forward.

Re: SHORE’S 9TH DISTRICT CANDIDACY GETS TWO QUITE DIFFERENT ENDORSEMENTS

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:47:26 -0000

Now if we could get you to put your feelings (mine too at times) about Foster's recommendation and support James Johnson. He may not be perfect but to date he is the only one in the 7th that is not a supporter of more low income housing, welfare services, and union accomodations.

Re: SHORE’S 9TH DISTRICT CANDIDACY GETS TWO QUITE DIFFERENT ENDORSEMENTS

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:47:34 -0000

Re: SHORE’S 9TH DISTRICT CANDIDACY GETS TWO QUITE DIFFERENT ENDORSEMENTS

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:28:45 -0000

The city can't afford another uranga type debacle. We need someone who will represent taxpayers not unions and folks who drain the city of money through welfare services. Other than Johnson, who do you see that we could turn to?

Re: SHORE’S 9TH DISTRICT CANDIDACY GETS TWO QUITE DIFFERENT ENDORSEMENTS

LB Resident — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:30:12 -0000

Pressburg is running in the 9th. Johnson is running in the 7th. We need someone in the 7th to represent taxpayers. I can't make a strong case for JJ but I can make a strong case against all of his competitors. Call it the lesser of evils but I think Johnson so far looks to be the best for the 7th.

Re: LIGHTS OUT

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 19:08:26 -0000

Bummer. Hope it is back next year.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:10:57 -0000

Actually, Kathy, your endorsement would go a long way with me.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:33:21 -0000

don't you have an acorn meeting to run to.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:08:54 -0000

Do you really disagree with him on everything? I bet not. I read your comments and I bet you agree with him on the following current budget initiatives he sponsored:

Increased sidewalk funding
Restore Rescue boat 3
Restore money to parks and rec
Cutting public works vacant positions but rather than transferring the money to the general fund, keeping it in PW for additional capital improvement projects.

It's easy to get worked up by the enviro crazies and the belmont shore issues, but the guy does consistently stick to core services and efficiency from a budget perspective.

Re: Studebaker and 7th Street Improvement ProjectÃ�â��Implement significant landscaping improvements and traffic calming measures for the heavy traffic volumes entering/exiting State Route...

LB Resident — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 11:51:21 -0000

Absolutely clean up this area!

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:23:15 -0000

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:12:20 -0000

for one, the court idea was colonna's, not delong. who cares. You dont thing he is good for us. I see good and some stuff that bothers me. But so far, I havent see anyone that would be better. Maybe that will change.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:21:11 -0000

they probably are the vocal minority. I know many who supported moving the courts. he didnt do a full survey because the funding was lost making the survey not relevant.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:51:07 -0000

Mike, I am not going to get into a back and forth with you. I agree with you on many things. But you also lose credibility sometimes. I am intimately familiar with both the courts and the park issue, and your comments are not fair. It is your opinion. There is another view on both of these which you may not agree with but your portrayal is just not balanced.

We get it. You dont like Delong. He is going to get re-elected though so it would help all of us if you would try to work toward positive improvement rather than simply badmouthing the guy. he doesnt care and it is not going to improve anything.

Re: CITY HALL’S WETLANDS SUBTERFUGE CONTINUES

LB Resident — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:30:42 -0000

It would be great if you could put some teeth to the eastern gateway beautification plans. What are you going to actually do/pay for? Or are you just leading the vision?

Re: CITY HALL’S WETLANDS SUBTERFUGE CONTINUES

LB Resident — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 22:23:08 -0000

I don't think this is true. Which roads? For a long time there has been the shopkeeper proposal but that was way before 2nd and PCH came along. And I don't support this project by the way so I'm not defending their plan. I'm just pointing out I don't think there are any proposed roads through the wetlands.

Re: A RARE, TIMELY AND WELCOME MOMENT OF CITY COUNCIL CONSENSUS

LB Resident — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:12:52 -0000

You are the definition of "vocal minority".

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:04:32 -0000

It's about time one of our councilmembers stand up to the unions and bring pension reform into the spotlight. Regardless of what you may think of Gary, we as taxpayers should all thank him for this vote and commentary. Hopefully this will start to make pension reform and election issue this spring and those running for office will either get religion quickly or be voted out.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:53:53 -0000

I agree. I hope he will speak on the matter. Though from my perspective he is starting behind in the count based on his chosen area of focus historically.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:05:31 -0000

My assessment of Delong:

Positives: Prioritizes infrastructure spending; tries to eliminate harmful non-core services such as welfare, housing subsidies, etc.; Responsive to neighborhood issues; Is at least talking about pension reform

Negatives: Doesn't support reconfiguring the breakwater; Has yet to be able to broker harmony between the BSBA and BSRA

Re: SEEKING FAIRNESS IN CONTRACT CONCESSIONS, CITY EMPLOYEES PLAN MARCH ON CITY HALL TUESDAY

LB Resident — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 10:18:08 -0000

What would give you any idea that public employees believe they live in the real world.

Re: DELONG ‘THE EPITOMY OF THE DYSFUNCTION’

LB Resident — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:25:40 -0000

congratulations.

Re: FORMER 49ER BALLER CALLS OUT JORDAN

LB Resident — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:56:45 -0000

I loved watching B-Russ and Sweet Lou at the Beach back in the Gold Mine.

Jordan pushed off. If it were anyone other than Jordan it would have been an offensive foul.

Re: FORMER 49ER BALLER CALLS OUT JORDAN

LB Resident — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:57:50 -0000

We finally agree on something. And Atkinson is a great call. Have not thought about that big man in awhile.

Re: FORMER 49ER BALLER CALLS OUT JORDAN

LB Resident — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:00:11 -0000

Chris Tower, Bobby Sears, Camper, Joe McNull. And I was at opening night of the pyramid. That place can get loud too. It just takes some winning teams so there is something to get excited about. Looks like maybe the current coach might have em going in the right direction.

Re: FORMER 49ER BALLER CALLS OUT JORDAN

LB Resident — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:39:46 -0000

Rasul could get up. I saw many ridiculous dunks from that guy.

I did my undergrad at LBSU and when I was there I witnessed 2 big west championships (when the BW was good), 2 NCAA tourney plus an NIT. The BW championship victory against UNLV was great. The entire Long Beach arena was taunting JR Rider. Loved it.

I'm hoping Monson can bring some of that fun back. there's a PT article today that says he signed the #25 shooting guard and this year's team looks good. Though the schedule is nasty.

Re: FORMER 49ER BALLER CALLS OUT JORDAN

LB Resident — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:41:00 -0000

Jordan was great, no doubt. But he really benefitted from an early Magic Johnson retirement and nobody to challenge him throughout his run.

Re: TOUGH LOVE

LB Resident — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:51:41 -0000

You guys make your opinion very clear in your articles...much more than other publications. Not saying it is bad, just saying it's true.

Re: TOUGH LOVE

LB Resident — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:19:56 -0000

they have a point a view. it isn't as explicit.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 11:57:57 -0000

Jack Smith so far looks like a homeless, low income housing advocate. If that is what you want, vote for him.

Personally, I think the 7th would improve dramatically with a councilperson that values business, job creation, and infrastructure. So far the only person that comes close is James Johnson. Is he a Foster guy? Is he friends with some of the wetlands property owners? Probably. I still think he is the best of the bunch so far.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 15:04:29 -0000

if the choice is between low income housing and business subsidies, its an easy choice for me. I have an opinion on which is less harmful for the city.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 19:15:20 -0000

I think there are a host of things we could do to lower the investment in low income housing, homeless services, etc. But that really isn't my point. My point is I want councilmembers who value public safety and infrastructure above all else. I want councilmembers who think more government social services are not the way to make the city better and stronger. Jack could have volunteered his time on anything in the world yet he chose to volunteer his time with the group who advocates for more investment in low income housing and social services. He may be recommending reforms that make those programs less horrible, and that is good, but he still obviously wouldn't be my first choice. So I hope he continues the reforms but I hope we get a councilperson that wants to invest in sidewalks, stormdrains, and streets.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:55:10 -0000

Not apply to be a Housing Authority and not apply for grants that pay for staff and services.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:52:07 -0000

I totally reject that republicans don't want to pay their fair share and that Kathy advocates for not paying a fair share. I pay far more than my fair share. Almost half the country pays no fed income tax. Is that fair?

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:32:11 -0000

Figures you would find that funny.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:42:49 -0000

to your last post. It's true that life isn't fair. That's different than your claim repubs don't want to pay their fair share.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:43:53 -0000

Everyone makes enough to pay taxes.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:22:34 -0000

For howardx, the tax code doesn't agree. and that is the problem and what is unfair. If everyone paid taxes, we'd have a lot less folks demanding services from our government (ie other taxpayers).

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:28:53 -0000

corporations dont pay taxes, ever. Consumers pay taxes. to argue otherwise is to not understand how business works.

I am outraged by folks dodging taxes. That is illegal and they should be prosecuted. And by the way dodging taxes is not a wealthy issue. Plenty of non-wealthy people dodge taxes too.

we have been through this before, if I want to help others that is my choice. the govt should be taxing me to pay for basic govt services, not confiscating money I earn and deciding how they want to social engineer the country. its not about saving a few bucks. we just want two different countries. I want one of accountability, rewarding hard work, etc. You want one of assuming if your rich you got lucky, if youre poor its not your fault, and the govt should try to even it out.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:09:34 -0000

be my guest, go off, should be fun. You know as well as I do, whatever tax you place on business only gets paid ultimately by you and me, the consumer.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:22:53 -0000

People that dont pay taxes have every incentive to ask for more services since they know they wont have to pay for them. It isnt their income that will face additional taxes so keep the services coming.

I dont think you want more services necessarily Mike, I think your argument/desires are a question of how we allocate the tax revenue.

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:51:14 -0000

agreed

Re: CANALIS ON CANDIDATE JACK SMITH

LB Resident — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:17:00 -0000

disappointed. I was hoping you were going to go off.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:12:53 -0000

for mike rhuele, now that loftin has droppoed out, delong is running without competition. What are you going to do?

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:11:09 -0000

If the city auditor and Schipske said he voted against it in closed session, my bet is he did. Those two are pretty credible and schipske in particular doesnt seem to support reforming pensions so I dont think she is motivated to say what she did.

at the end of the day, grandstanding or not, delong got the issue even more publicity which is good. this problem needs to get solved yesterday.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:55:21 -0000

You are always spouting off conspiracies. my guess is delong wins easily.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:28:26 -0000

Correct me if I'm wrong, but we can require existing employees to contribute more to pensions via the negotiation process.

I'm glad to hear you support increasing the employee contribution to pensions. Based on previous exchanges with you I inferred otherwise. I guess I inferred incorrectly. Thank you for correcting me.

By the way, don't get worked up. I don't have anything to do with city hall. I am just one resident (not in your district by the way) that has one vote.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:15:38 -0000

One more thing, none of my posts are "innaccurate". I may express some opinions that you don't agree with but that doesn't make them innacurate. If I stated something as fact when it is not, please let me know. Otherwise, I look forward to your apology.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:32:37 -0000

Can't wait.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:04:30 -0000

OK. To be fair, I did not say I knew your position. I said "schipske doesn't SEEM...". As I said I inferred this from exchanges you and I have had previously. I'm glad I inferred incorrectly.

I don't use my real name because frankly while I think the dialogue is important, interesting (and fun) I don't want to be a public figure.

Thanks for your response.

Re: YOUR TAX DOLLARS NOT AT WORK

LB Resident — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 12:28:14 -0000

Reform pensions.

Re: YOUR TAX DOLLARS NOT AT WORK

LB Resident — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 22:53:14 -0000

does the mythical challenger support reconfiguring the breakwater?

Re: ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING

LB Resident — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:55:07 -0000

Either I misunderstood or I think you have a typo, it is called Long Beach Studios, not Hollywood.

Also, what are you saying ..."without its charms"?

Re: ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING

LB Resident — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:18:46 -0000

Gotcha.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:15:07 -0000

other parts of lb that already offer services most likely.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:17:02 -0000

Is it ever ok to say NIMBY?

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:40:27 -0000

still, why can't a guy be a nimby? You put your life savings into a neighborhood to raise your family and you're a bad guy because you don't want a mental health center to move in?

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:18:40 -0000

You are arguing with yourself. Nobody is trying to take away a right or treat anyone as less than human.

If you don't put a center near a residential neighborhood, homeless/mentally ill people very likely won't walk around the neighborhood. end of story.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:45:52 -0000

answer: Nothing. But your question is irrelevant. Nobody is saying they can't walk through a neighborhood. I'm saying if the center isn't there, they won't be there to walk through the neighborhood.

You may be right about the area being industrial. I am not that familiar with it. But it is ridiculous to say a guy is bad for not wanting the center next to his neigbhorhood.

Do you have children?

Re: YOUR TAX DOLLARS NOT AT WORK

LB Resident — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 12:18:00 -0000

i don't have a strong opinion on this but i think LB city girl makes a valid point. there is a distinction between posting opinions (as she does) and what the poster with 1,000 names does. That poster often (at least to me) appears to anonomously post supposedly factual information without proof.

Anyway, point taken on the legality issue.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:05:47 -0000

Nobody is denying anyone access to anything. Do you think that it is taking away the rights of people who attend strip clubs if neighbors don't want a strip club near their home?

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:45:27 -0000

the strip club comparison is totally valid.

with your perspective, we shouldn't have zoning laws.

Re: YEP, POVERTY’S UP

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:48:09 -0000

offtopic a but here is another delong idea you will likely support: http://www.insidesocal.com/presscorps/2009/09/g...

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:06:54 -0000

the residenst said they don't want a strip club in the neighborhood even though zoning allows it because they don't want strip club clientele in the neighborhood even though they have a right to be there.

Re: UNDER THE ‘GRANDSTANDING’

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:23:27 -0000

fine pick a casino, or a home depot...

Re: YEP, POVERTY’S UP

LB Resident — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:11:27 -0000

agreed. but I think you would agree it would be nice to import a little less poverty if possible. as the article states, we have enough of that in our city already.

Re: YEP, POVERTY’S UP

LB Resident — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:05:03 -0000

chill out Mike. You are correct. I guess it was Jack who identified the problem. But delong/garcia get credit for addressing it at the council level.

the day after election day is really going to be hard for you.

Re: YEP, POVERTY’S UP

LB Resident — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:52:27 -0000

I said I was wrong. I probably do need to chill out at times. Still you do too. Keep fighting the good fight.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:04:16 -0000

actually I think non-union hotels treat the jobs as they are intended...hourly, transitional jobs for people to make ends meat until they can improve their skills, get a career, etc.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:47:17 -0000

No. I don't actually. But I sincerely believe the unions' two major complaints are lower hourly wages than they want and lack of health benefits. I don't think either of those complaints are valid if you consider as I do the jobs transitional.

Re: IT’S . . . SUPERFAN

LB Resident — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:53:24 -0000

tonia uranga says hi.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:13:47 -0000

Spam

Re: 2! 4! 6! 8! WHY THERE’S NO FOOTBALL AT LONG BEACH STATE! | The District Weekly

LB Resident — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:26:12 -0000

Alexander should impose a student fee regardless of bringing back football or not. It would help all sports.

Title IX is horrible and has done more harm than good.

I hope football comes back via a $20M donation from alum Steven Speilberg. (sp?)

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:45:24 -0000

Even though I highly suspect I am responding to a crazy person...I don't support Dana R. He doesn't fight to reconfigure the breakwater and he could care less about LB. So I really wished the HB Mayor (democrat by the way) would have won. (As you see, I am not the partisan you are.)

Regarding Delong, he vigorously supports infrastructure and other core services. He seems to be moving in the right direction on pension reform and his/Robert's council initiative to look at how we allocate subsidized housing is positive. The only thing more I could ask is getting a little more control over a few bars on 2nd Street and getting religion on the breakwater.

I really do hope that you aren't crazy and that some candidates will emerge that have delong's strengths but also push him on the two issues I feel he could improve on. That would be good for all 3rd district residents. Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of confidence that you are speaking anything but drivel or worse the candidates you claim are going to enter the race are nothing more than leftist, social engineering folks with out of line priorities. Hope I'm wrong.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:07:50 -0000

I don't believe for a second this is about health and safety.

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:21:19 -0000

Who else is even talking?

Re: HOTEL WORKERS MARCH DOWNTOWN TONIGHT

LB Resident — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:32:17 -0000

feel better?

Re: VAL LERCH IS “AWED AND HUMBLED” AT HIS CHANCES

LB Resident — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 12:12:16 -0000

I'm not saying you are wrong, but how do you quantify "associates"?

Re: VAL LERCH IS “AWED AND HUMBLED” AT HIS CHANCES

LB Resident — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:42:20 -0000

got it. thanks.

Re: JENSEN WILL OPPOSE DELONG FOR 3RD DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:03:53 -0000

Great. This is exciting.

Mr. Jensen, I'd love to hear your stances on the following:

Do you support reconfiguring the breakwater?
Do you support increasing the employee contribution for pensions?
Given you opposed Measure I, do you feel fixing our roads, sidewalks, street medians, and other infrastructure is a top priority? If so, how will you accomplish it?
How do you feel about the city's involvement in affordable housing and other social service?

I look forward to your responses.

Re: JENSEN WILL OPPOSE DELONG FOR 3RD DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:04:10 -0000

It does. And I have a few more below.

Re: HEINEKEN’S IN THE HOUSE

LB Resident — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:22:09 -0000

agreed

Re: FIRING A SHOT ACROSS THE AQUARIUM’S BOW

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:16:55 -0000

Hey we found another thing we agree on. PETA is a bunch of lunatics.

Re: FIRING A SHOT ACROSS THE AQUARIUM’S BOW

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:36:56 -0000

It must be Halloween. Although I think we agree on reforming pensions too. But yes, our agreement is a nascent trend.

Re: FIRING A SHOT ACROSS THE AQUARIUM’S BOW

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:51:55 -0000

Look, I try to build bridges. :) Work with me not against me. We should come up with 5 principles we both can agree on for the city. Then we should force Foster and the kids to adhere lest they have a citizen revolt on their hands.

Re: FIRING A SHOT ACROSS THE AQUARIUM’S BOW

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:32:02 -0000

In honor of the recent relocation to the LBC we should drink Heineken.

Re: JENSEN WILL OPPOSE DELONG FOR 3RD DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:44:31 -0000

I think that is Palos, not Palace.

Re: JENSEN WILL OPPOSE DELONG FOR 3RD DISTRICT SEAT

LB Resident — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:07:50 -0000

Terry, I would also like your opinion on charter reform to increase the port transfer to tidelands. Is your bet with the Port or the residents who need the infrastrtucture in the tidelands upgraded in a big way yesterday.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:16:12 -0000

Cut the 12 story hotel to 6. Max the other buildings out at 3 stories. And cut the condos by 200. Agree to landscape every median on Studebaker, PCH, and 2nd Street with palm trees and decorative concrete. Create a fitting gateway from the 22 exit to the project with greenery on both sides of the street (particularly along the power plant) and a nicer fence along the los cerritos channel.

There you go. We have a deal.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:29:59 -0000

actually, I think he knows these meetings typically turn into a domination by a few vocal people. the real conversations happen with the neighborhood groups, email feedback, etc.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:41:18 -0000

gonna need better starting pitching. and manny needs to get hot again.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:09:38 -0000

true. but the last week was awful and he left a lot of runners on base

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:40:56 -0000

This project doesn't have much open space either. The developer is counting second story walkways / areas as open space. True open space is on the ground floor.

Honestly, I'd like some view corridors to the water from pch but not at the expense of 12 stories. The 12 stories is plain offensive and until they cut it to at least 6 I will oppose this project and so will everyone I know.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:35:26 -0000

to be fair, i think their position is that they can mitigate traffic at all times except for two peak periods. regardless, 12 stories is a non-starter.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:36:45 -0000

most people want the hotel piece, just not 12 stories of it.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:01:22 -0000

you said it. 6 story hotel. 3 stories for the condos (about 150 of them) and a few complimentary shops/restaurants and a boat load of improvements to the surrounding area and you have a winner. but the lin's keep swinging for the fences.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:29:08 -0000

If they are simply negotiating that is fine. But they should also know by suggesting 12 stories they have pissed off a lot of people who would support an increase in height if it were reasonable. 12 stories is not reasonable.

The other thing they are doing that is irritating a lot of people is not saying specifically what improvements to the surrounding area they will provide. Instead they are saying they will take a "leadership role in setting the vision"...what a bunch of crap. How much are you going to spend and on what.

It's time for the games to stop. They are losing people like me that badly want to see something done with the corner. They lost the wetlands crazies before it even started so my peeps are all that is left if they want community support.

Re: 2ND+PCH LINING UP SUPPORT FOR TONIGHT’S PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

LB Resident — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 22:47:42 -0000

for once in my life, I'd like to see a dodger/angel world series. and I don't care who wins.

Re: LOTS OF TALK ABOUT 2ND+PCH, BUT NOT MUCH TO TALK ABOUT

LB Resident — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:36:06 -0000

good point. also, I agree we need some upscale retail, but the place to do it is across the street. Marketplace needs some updating to attract more tenants. It works against the area to build another retail complex at the seaport. that site needs a nice hotel and a few complimentary restaurants/shops. I'll even throw in a few condos so the developers can make some money.

Re: LAND OF CONFUSION

LB Resident — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:46:21 -0000

somewhat random, but what part of long beach do the bar owners you detest live in? Or do they live in LB at all?

Re: LAND OF CONFUSION

LB Resident — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:35:58 -0000

Thanks.

Re: THAT’S (NOT) A WRAP

LB Resident — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:34:41 -0000

By the way, I thought when I read the PT article over the weekend that given Monday was a non-working day for many that it was weird to say the deal would get done on Monday. I'm not one to jump the TDW bandwagon to slam the PT but it was kind of weak to not do that research for the article. Just look at the calendar. Anyway, kudos to TDW for clearing up the issue. Let's keep our fingers crossed...

Re: THAT’S (NOT) A WRAP

LB Resident — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:31:56 -0000

I really hope this comes through. Would be great for our city.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:53:50 -0000

Why would you want to make the Peninsula less exclusive? I don't live there. But I appreciate the value in every city of having some desirable, exclusive, highly sought after neighborhoods. Without them, cities fail.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:57:41 -0000

I think we both know that the peninsula is one of the neighborhood's that contributes more than in requires from the city. But we do need to reconfigure the breakwater so we can stop spending money on sand replenishment.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:20:36 -0000

Yes. My perspective is not credible given that I live in Naples. Well said Mr. Ruehle.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:27 -0000

No arguments here on Belmont Shore Mike. I agree Belmont Shore is one of the neighborhoods where homeowners contribute far more than they consume. Perhaps you haven't been to Naples in awhile. Our sidewalks are the worst in the city and our streets are on par with the rest of the city. This isn't a specific neighborhood problem. The city's infrastructure is terrible and I think I have made the point that it needs to be prioritzed. We must stop spending on all the other social service non-sense and we need to reform pensions. It is ridiculous to spend money on translating council meetings when we don't do the very basics of city gov't like provide solid infrastructure.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:23:15 -0000

as far as I know ocean is relatively new and the rest of the streets have not been replace. but I don't spend a lot of time over there. If your point is that the peninsula has had more work done, even if you're correct, it is not the bigger point. Fighting over scraps across the city is not where we need to be. We need to increase our infrastructure budget so that we can adequately fix streets and sidewalks and storm drains across the entire city.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:04:31 -0000

I think this is a good thing. Let's do it across the city now.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:04:52 -0000

not enough money to make a dent.

Re: QUIET ON THE SET

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:10:45 -0000

fingers crossed...

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:36:22 -0000

As much as I hate serving as an enabler for the horrible teacher's union I will likely hold my nose and vote for measure T though I'm not 100% sure at this point.

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:41:09 -0000

also, thankfully the law does not let them take the money and spend it on operational expenses. we vote for k because we want the facilities improved and new schools built. we certainly don't need the unions raiding the funds so they can pay teachers their already generous salaries and benefits.

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:38:58 -0000

I think what lbmom is upset about is that no matter how much money we give, it is never enough. This is not about the economy. The teacher's union fights every policy that could save money, improve education, and make schools more efficient. The administrators waste money in the huge beauracracy. We just keep paying. Tax after tax. Bond after bond. If I said we'll give the schools a billion dollars, it still won't be enough. Whatever we give, they spend, and then ask for more. But we'll probably vote for measure T as lbmom says, because the scare tactics work. We should vote no and find a way to break the teacher's union. But, instead we will do everything for our kids including vote for bonds we know we shouldn't because they scare us into thinking if we don't things will explode. So we do it.

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:43:58 -0000

you're right. we should vote no.

Re: GOVERNATOR TO CITY: DEAL WITH IT

LB Resident — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:10:37 -0000

the peninsula residents raised the money (over $100k) privately to pay for that median.

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:32:37 -0000

not really, the only reason to vote for this is to believe the scare tactics. They hold a gun to your head and say vote for the bond or your children will fail. It's disgusting. To me it's no different than Measure I. Bob says we have no money, we won't fix pensions, etc., but we'll spend on a bunch crap like translating council meetings, etc. and if you want your basic services like infrastructure you need to vote for my bond. I voted for it but shouldn't have.

by the way, the lunatic fringe is Uranga who now that her husband dropped out is apparently considering a write in. God help us...

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:22:57 -0000

totally disagree. but I guess you and I disagreeing shouldn't surprise.

Re: LONG BEACH UNIFIED INCHING TOWARD POSSIBLE TEACHER LAYOFFS

LB Resident — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:34:27 -0000

who said they don't have to fix up the schools and build the new ones?