Mike Hernandez

* Re “Contrasts Mark Hernandez’s Council Return,” Oct. 8: I have lived in what is Mike Hernandez’s district for over 30 years. In this district, the trash overflows from trash receptacles, the sidewalks in business districts are broken and uneven, alleys are overflowing with debris and what businesses remain do not offer mainstream services. Now we have a council person who reflects the demise of the district.

Hernandez’s emotional problems that led to his alcoholism and drug addiction are regrettable. What is even more sad is this district that desperately needs leadership has none. If you care about your district, Mike, resign and let us have a full-time person on the council.

MICHAEL P. RIVES

Los Angeles

* I am a city employee and I have a few questions that I would like to ask: How many firefighters, police officers, DWP workers or any other city workers would still have a job to go back to if any one of them were arrested for possession of cocaine? Why is Hernandez different?

The fact that the City Council and the mayor have not come out publicly denouncing Hernandez for what he did and officially asked him to resign shows that there is no leadership in L.A. city government. It also sends a bad message to city employees, city residents and, worst of all, it sends a message to our youth that there are no consequences for one’s criminal actions when a public figure is concerned.

City workers, on the other hand, are usually suspended or fired immediately if involved in similar circumstances, as they should be. How insulting for Hernandez to take up his position on the council as if nothing happened.

ANDRE’ BELOTTO

Los Angeles

* I am surprised that our students are doing so well and their schools are so wealthy that they can afford to send van loads of children to welcome back a drug and alcohol abuser, who did not attempt to straighten out his life until caught. What is the message that we are giving our children?

ELLEN KNELL

Pasadena