Helping NASA fix its telescope was a “whim,” officials said.
City analysts believe the city’s $12 million deficit, could swell to more than $25 million in three years if spending isn’t slashed now.
“Well, it’s time to start acting like it.” — said Mayor Rob Righteous, after getting a parking ticket
“People say we’re Beverly Hills on the beach,”
Critics contend the council continues to spend frivolously. In the last month council members have spent more than $100 million on pet projects and political causes. So far the council has voted to clean up the Pacific Ocean, purify the air, enact a true living wage and build universal affordable housing.
Next month, the council plans to tackle health coverage for all and find a way to end homelessness in America by proving free food, jobs and homes for everybody.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 1, 2003. Read the original PDF.