Gardena

* As mayor of Gardena, I must take strong exception to the overall tone of “Living by Casinos, Losing by Casinos” (Dec. 14), which portrayed Gardena as a moribund town whose past and future are dependent solely upon the success or failure of card clubs. The burden of our current financial condition cannot be placed on the card clubs.

The current City Council has tackled our fiscal situation and is developing a strategic plan that will not only address our financial health but also help ensure the quality of life for our community. The article completely overlooked Gardena’s attributes, which include a culturally diverse and stable population and over $100 million in residential and commercial development currently underway.

DONALD L. DEAR

Mayor, Gardena