O<i> ur readers wrote letters throughout 1986 expressing their viewpoints on a variety of issues. Here are condensed versions of some of those letters. We appreciate their taking the time to share their viewpoints and look forward to hearing from you in 1987.</i>

Public liability:

It seem incomprehensible that by providing the public with some services (such as lifeguards), a beach city becomes liable for any and all accidents that occur on its beach property.

The awarding of $6 million in damages to someone who dives into the ocean and hurts himself is really hard to figure out. If someone dives off a pier into shallow water, would the city be liable for the resulting injuries?

I think it’s time to stop such folly. As citizens are we liable for any foolhardy act that occurs in the public domain?

JAMES L. BOONE

Irvine