Debate Over Secession

Re the editorial “An Ax Over Los Angeles,” March 17.

“Ax, sledgehammer, destroy, smashing, mercenaries” . . . your beyond-the-pale terminology to describe Valley VOTE’s quest for Valley independence is both unprofessional and unforgivable.

The Valley has grown up. The hyper-control and lack of privileges bestowed by the downtown powers-that-be must now acquiesce to this young adult city ready to leave the nest. Our fledging city of 1.6 million would include people of all races, creeds, nationalities and economic statuses. Our great neighbor, Los Angeles, would then be free to focus her energy and resources on herself, not unlike empty nesters that discover much joy and satisfaction in their own independence.

CAMILLE CARR-RAMIREZ

Arleta

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Why is it that the Los Angeles Times is against the study of cityhood if the people of the San Fernando Valley have spoken through the collection of over 130,000 signatures. The Boston Tea Party happened because the people were not represented. What has changed in 1999? The Constitution was written for and of the people, yet what consequences must take place if the government does not represent the people?

Even the Los Angeles Times has recognized that localizing news and stories by creating different editions of the paper--the Valley Edition, Ventura County Edition, Orange County Edition, etc.--meets the needs of the consumers that help increase market share. Government is no different; if you do not localize and bring government back to the communities it serves, people will find alternatives, as Valley VOTE has done.

In closing, it is the people or consumers who make the final decisions. To make that decision, it is the responsibility of government (public services) and corporations (consumer products) to educate and provide the necessary tools to the public so we can make right choices for our future generations.

DAVID IWATA

Woodland Hills

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Re S. David Freeman’s threat to increase water and power bills if the Valley secedes from Los Angeles (“Valley Bills Will Rise if It Secedes, DWP Chief Says,” March 4).

This might be reversed if city taxes could be assessed on the Department of Water and Power facilities located in the Valley, which are many, such as the Valley Steam Plant, Sylmar [site], receiving and distribution stations, and working facilities.

MAXWELL COOPER

Northridge