By Nina Fresco Santa Monica
It is very unfortunate that historic preservation is now being used as a wedge to attempt the removal of the Santa Monicans For Renters Rights majority from the Santa Monica City Council.
In 2002, Proposition A (the anti-preservation initiative cloaked as a homeowners freedom of choice issue) distorted facts using extreme and dramatic language to gain a base. In spite of all the hyperbole and a large war chest to spread it around, Prop A was defeated because Santa Monicans support historic preservation.
Landmark designation brings benefits not only to the community but to the owners of the landmarked properties. For example, at the November meeting of the Landmarks Commission, 11 Mills Act contracts were approved. These contracts result in a significant tax break belittled by Prop A proponents. The five single family homes alone received tax reductions totaling $102,650.00 to their annual rate.
The Landmarks Commission has never initiated a discussion of an historic district. The two districts that are designated were brought by the residents there. The discussion of the district north of Montana Avenue in 2001 was brought by a resident of that district. It was dropped because of lack of support from the other residents. The ballot initiative and the landmarks bashing that took place was not necessary to make the commission see that the district wasn’t wanted. A simple show of hands would have done the job.
I hope Santa Monica residents will recognize the support they received in 2002 from incumbents Bloom, Feinstein and Genser (and McKeown and O’Connor) who had the courage to take a stand in the face of controversy, ensured that correct information was available by calling the election and made the polls accessible to the many, busy but caring Santa Monicans (renters and owners alike) who chose to preserve our heritage. Please re-elect Bloom, Genser and Feinstein.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on October 20, 2004. Read the original PDF.