West Hollywood: Conflict of Interest Allegation by Councilman Is Challenged

In the article, “House of Blues Dispute Sounds Political Note,” (12/8/94) Scott Collins reported on the accusation of Councilman Steve Martin of the city of West Hollywood. Mr. Martin believes it was a conflict of interest for Mayor Abbe Land to have accepted a campaign contribution from the House of Blues while running for state assembly.

Mr. Martin should notice the actions of Ms. Land carefully before speaking and dragging West Hollywood into the muck so typical of today’s politics. Mayor Land has shown no pattern of favoritism in her treatment of the House of Blues. True, a contribution was accepted; contributions are a fact of life in politics. People in public office should be judged by their actions, not judged by who contributes to their campaigns.

Mr. Martin should consider the pragmatic economics which govern the welfare of a city. The people who live in a city deserve the most respect and the best treatment the city can provide. This does, however, require revenue; and for that reason the needs of the business community become important.

Mayor Abbe Land has been evenhanded in considering both sides. She has done a good job of considering the needs of the people who live in West Hollywood while considering the restraints and requirements one must face because of the city budget.

MICHAEL STEMPEL, West Hollywood