Torrance : ‘Hands’ Fees Waived

With Mayor Katy Geissert casting the swing vote, the City Council voted 4 to 3 to waive $2,100 in city fees associated with Hands Across America, the human chain being formed May 25 to raise money for the homeless.

Councilman Mark Wirth seconded a motion by Councilman Dan Walker to waive the fee, saying it would be embarrassing to be the only city in the South Bay not waiving fees for the nationwide event. Councilwoman Dee Hardison also supported the motion.

Councilmen Bill Applegate, Tim Mock and George Nakano voted against the motion, saying they feared setting a precedent that would require them to waive fees for other charitable organizations holding events in the city.

The human chain will be formed in Torrance along Pacific Coast Highway. City officials estimate that it will cost $2,100 for for police and traffic control.