Special-Interest Budget Projects

* In “Beef Added to Usual Helping of Pork in ’99 Budget” (Dec. 13), the special-interest projects set forth were disgusting to me as a taxpayer, and it is appalling that “the 4,000-page bill was so packed with pork that most members of Congress had no idea what was in it when they voted on it--and probably still don’t know.” By passing this budget, I would say members of Congress abused and violated the trust of the American people and failed to conduct themselves in the best interests of the country. And they think they know what impeachable offenses are?

ANITA KELTY NITTA

Manhattan Beach

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Re this year’s congressional appropriations process: This should have us all watching more carefully next year. The article gave us some startling examples of money poorly spent, but the half-million dollars for the Backbone Trail is not pork. The money is to buy land from willing sellers and is only a small step in completing the vision of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Placing these parcels in permanent public protection is important to the environment, to wildlife, to muscle-powered trail users and to the quality of life in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

To my mind, Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks) was heroic in securing that appropriation. The Land and Water Conservation Fund, which collects money from offshore oil drilling, and the new TEA-21 transportation bill, which collects money from gas taxes, both provide revenue for land acquisition for parks and trails. I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking that money for environmental protection and public enjoyment of open space is exactly where I want my tax dollars to go.

JIM HASENAUER

Woodland Hills