By Phil Grunland Santa Monica
Tom Cleys’ letter, which can only be described as a temper tantrum, chastised your newspaper for lack of balance, and the fact that his interview was not printed in full. This letter purports to enlighten your readership on the background of the historical preservation movement in this City. Mr. Cleys would have you believe that the residents of 18th Street rose up as one in opposition to the demolition of old homes and “approached the Landmarks Commission... wanting to know if there was anything that they could do about it.” This is just nonsense! All anyone has to do is to drive down 18th Street between Montana and San Vicente to see the many, many “No Historic Districts” signs. The signs tell you all that you need to know. As 20-year residents, sponsors of the initiative, and “worker bees” in the movement, my wife and I have talked with and/or visited with every homeowner. We know the overwhelming majority of homeowners who favor the initiative, and the handful of those who do not. The majority of homeowners, and other fair-minded residents in Santa Monica, will rise up to support this measure. Make no mistake. See you on Dec. 10, or at the polls, Tom!
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 27, 2002. Read the original PDF.