Holden Points to Gains in His Council District

I am deeply offended by your misstatement that the 10th District has been neglected under my leadership (editorial, May 14). When I took office 16 years ago, neglected mini-malls were everywhere. Auto body shops were out of control and alcohol establishments, in spite of neighborhood objections, operated out of compliance with city ordinances. Unsightly graffiti was everywhere, and LAPD foot patrols did not exist.

I enacted a moratorium on all mini-mall construction until a comprehensive community development plan was established. I authored an ordinance requiring an annual inspection of auto body shops. I created a zero-tolerance program for graffiti and provided paint to property owners to assist in graffiti removal. Using a portion of my personal salary, I proudly initiated the first LAPD foot patrol program in my district.

All of the libraries in the district have been rebuilt, remodeled or expanded under my leadership, as have the parks and recreation facilities. The Baldwin Hills Recreation Center is only 2 years old. And a child-care center is under construction at Rancho Park. A new performing arts center, where the Ebony Showcase Theater once stood, will be dedicated in June. We’ve established new business corridors on Pico, Venice, Washington and other major streets.

Perhaps you should come to the 10th District or talk to some of our residents; you’d see firsthand that good things have happened under my leadership.

Nate Holden

L.A. City Council