Private Boost for Watts Towers

Soon again the public will be able to explore that remarkable huge cultural landmark, the Watts Towers, with its collection of spires decorated with patterns of glass, tile and shells--all of it crafted by Simon Rodia.

Scaffolding still hides much of the structure, but the major repair work, which has prevented public access since 1978, is scheduled to be finished by June. When the scaffolding comes down, however, the City of Los Angeles will face an estimated expense of $60,000 to $120,000 a year for operation, maintenance and preservation work. The city will not have to pay that big bill, though, if Mayor Tom Bradley and the City Council approve a proposed settlement of a lawsuit filed seven years ago against the city on behalf of the Committee for Simon Rodia’s Towers in Watts.

The settlement would create a new nonprofit group to raise money, potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars, primarily from arts and business philanthropists. At least 15 cents of every dollar collected would go toward routine and long-term maintenance. The remaining money would pay for improvements to the surroundings--including directional signs, picnic tables and parking. Those amenities are needed to attract visitors.

City Council member Joan Milke Flores, who represents the section of Watts where the 100-foot towers loom, favors the improvements, but has been concerned that the city might lose power.

The agreement now includes provisions that maintain operation by the city, which has a 50-year lease from the state. Indeed, concern at City Hall contrasts with years in which little was done beyond operation of a museum at the towers. The state allocated the $1.2 million used for the repairs.

The terms of the proposed agreement call for community participation in the operation, and that is important. The neighbors have a right to play a part.

Most other details have not been made public, ostensibly because of the pending legal action. That is to be regretted. Among the secrets is the attorneys’ fee that the city would be required to pay. But those familiar with the details insist that it is a better arrangement than any likely to emerge from the pending suit.

If the settlement is not approved, the lawsuit could go to trial in June. The suit alleges neglect by the city in its operation and maintenance of the towers. Negotiations are proceeding. The mayor, long an advocate of preserving the towers, could expedite matters by voicing his support for the proposed agreement--an agreement all the more attractive because of the infusion of private funds.

The Watts Towers have withstood neglect, a demolition order and debate on their artistic, architectural and engineering merits. Now there is an opportunity to assure their future without an added burden for taxpayers.