By Molly Scott Santa Monica
I just read your article regarding the removal of Valerie Hiss’ doggie houses (SMDP, Aug. 4, page 1). I keep waiting for the punch line as I assume it had to be a joke. Is it only a matter of time before City Hall workers start removing children’s swings that hang on many of the city’s trees as well? Bird houses — in essence what Ms. Hiss’s boxes are albeit serving a different purpose to nature — and children’s swings have been hung from trees for centuries. What’s the fuss about? Potential pests and disease? Most of the trees that anchor these doggie houses were here before many of us were and I would venture a guess that many of them will be here long after we are gone.
I am disgusted that some corridors of our city reek of human urine and feces, yet my tax dollars are compensating a city worker to remove what I feel is a great service to the community. Ms. Hiss should be commended, not punished, and City Hall should be ashamed.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 5, 2006. Read the original PDF.