By Lazlo Makay Santa Monica
I read your article, “Vivian Rothstein: Fighting for ‘what’s right’ in SM (SMDP, Feb. 16, page 1). I am pleased to know that someone is brave enough to speak up for justice. Also, I thank Mr. Antonio Mendez (SMDP, Feb. 23, page 6). We should discuss the senior citizens’ housing problems. I moved to Santa Monica in 1957. I lived at 1330 Fifth St. The rent was $40 a month. Then Santa Monica was a sweet, quiet town. The people were very nice and courteous. Palisades Park was beautiful and well kept. The American landlords were very nice and polite. I could rent an apartment very easily. In 1973, I got married, then we moved to 1022 Second St. The rent was $130 a month. By that time, things changed drastically. The foreign landlords became greedy and started to raise the rent frequently.
This is why the people voted for rent control. The rent control was very helpful. Now it is very weak and cannot defend even the handicapped senior citizens. I am 75 years old. I have been on the housing waiting list since 1999.
It seems hopeless. Me and my wife are really desperate. I see a lot of injustices. That’s outrageous. Please advise.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 5, 2004. Read the original PDF.