A FORUM FOR COMMUNITY ISSUES : Modest Proposal

SYLVIA PATSAOURAS, Urban planner, Tarzana

Southern California is viewed outside the region as a global laboratory where people from the industrial and the developing nations of the East and West, North and South meet in relative harmony. Yet we are in truth rigidly divided into areas for the affluent and the disadvantaged. Residents in neglected communities suffer the drug trade, inadequate housing, teen pregnancy, gangs and unemployment, and perceive government as not committed to solving these problems.

Yet a study by Tufts University of citizen participation in several U.S. cities showed that there is a strong reservoir of activism and community bonds in even very disadvantaged neighborhoods, so it makes sense to adopt a bottom-up approach to addressing community needs. First, establish neighborhood boards to promote citizen participation. The boards should be structured to allow members to communicate easily with city council representatives in reviewing project proposals and monitoring local and citywide issues. Such active involvement will foster a sense of community and develop a common agenda for implementation.

In addition, these neighborhood boards could be used as vehicles for sister-community relationships with the support of local governments. If “communities with capacity” forge a dialogue with “communities at risk,” a greater understanding will develop and trust will ensue.

We can’t talk about a global economy and worldwide alliances when there is so much fragmentation at the local level. As our city has grown horizontally and we have come to live farther and farther apart, we know each other less and less. This has led to misunderstanding, resentment and fear. It is in everyone’s vital interest to develop and maintain friendships and partnerships between our communities if we are to become the great metropolis we have the potential to be.