Have a question? Ask Don. Use this feature to send a question to Supervisor Knabe and he will post a response within two business days.
Dear Friend:
Thank you for your email regarding the Rancho feral cats. To date over 30 cats have been trapped by the Department, and not one has been euthanized. All of the Rancho cats are available for adoption, if you would like to help one or more of these cats, please contact the Department of Animal Care and Control at:
As you can imagine we have received numerous emails regarding this issue. Rather than respond to each individual email that we have received, we would like to address the issues raised by the recent email from the Stray Cat Alliance.
Stray Cat Alliance statement: "As many of you have been following, LA County Animal Control has been ordered by County Supervisor Don Knabe's office to get rid of over 100 fixed, healthy stray and feral cats living peacefully on the abandoned grounds of Rancho Los Amigos. They give ridiculous reasons like the plague and rabies, both of which the County's own veterinarian has stated basically these disease do not exist in cats in California."
Response: Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center is not an abandoned facility. In addition to the hospital, there are many private businesses and County offices currently on the campus. The cats dwell in segments of abandoned buildings located next to buildings that are currently occupied. The County worked with a local TNR organization for over 9 months to address this issue. The Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) offered the group numerous resources to help, including offering the group traps and free spay/neuter services. None of the County’s resources were utilized. Throughout the process, health risks and future redevelopment were stressed to the group as reasons for urgency to this process. Despite this effort, the cat population has continued to grow, and a recent inspection on the campus found at least five litters. Due to the large number of feral cats on the campus, estimated at 150 – 200, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) has determined that the current conditions pose a public health risk. Evidence of fleas, flies, and feces associated with the cats has been observed throughout the campus, including adjacent to a child day care center, a County Crime Laboratory, and a County Public Health Laboratory. In addition, no County veterinarian has made this statement. The veterinarian referred to in the Stray Cat Alliance email is a State of California employee. However, no name or identification is provided on the blog as to who this veterinarian is.
Stray Cat Alliance statement: “The County has fenced off the abandoned buildings where the cats have lived for years. They have boarded up some areas and are planning on boarding up some more. The County gives ridiculous excuses, i.e. they will leave 2 holes not boarded up for the cats to escape but the truth is we don't know if those holes are accessible to all places.”
Response: These abandoned buildings will be demolished. By boarding up the buildings prior to the demolition we can ensure that no cats will be trapped underneath when this happens. Every building has a see-through, one-way exit for the cats to get out. The crawl spaces under the buildings are constructed in a way that the cats can move under them unobstructed. In addition, the County is replenishing food and water daily for the cats on the campus.
Stray Cat Alliance statement: “I just spoke to the office and the nice lady said the same old same old. Then she said she would give my message to Aaron Navarez. I said he is Animal Control and has NO power and to PLEASE pass my message to someone who works directly with Mr Knabe. She said she would try but Officer Navarez just called me back. We have to get through to people who can do something.”
Response: Aaron Nevarez is a member of the Fourth District staff, not an officer in the Department of Animal Care and Control. You can confirm this at the following link:
He reports directly to Supervisor Knabe regarding all Animal Control issues. Our office has been in contact with the Stray Cat Alliance and other animal rights/TNR organizations to discuss this issue. We will continue to meet with them in the future.
As always, we welcome you to send your comments to don@lacbos.org
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
How can the residents of Hacienda Heights schedule a Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Waste round-up? I have lived here for 6 years and have never heard or seen of an event for our residents. I have tried to take stuff to waste round-ups in La Habra and La Habra Heights but am turned away as I am not a resident.
Can you help get us an annual schedule for hazardous waste round-ups?
Thank you for your efforts to help recycle household hazardous and electronic waste materials and keep our environment clean.
Almost every Saturday the County conducts mobile Household Hazardous/Electronic Waste (HHW/E-Waste) collection events at different locations in the County.
To find a location near Hacienda Heights and obtain an updated schedule of the upcoming HHW/E-Waste events, please visit www.888CLEANLA.com or call our 1(888) CLEAN LA hotline. The website also provides you the option to sign-up for the e¬notify feature where you would receive electronic notifications of upcoming events in the vicinity of your residence.
Our events are advertised through community newspapers, banners, and flyer distributions. We do not ask for proof of residency at our collection events, since these events are open to all residents. Please note that besides our events, many cities coordinate their own collection events where only their residents can participate.
We are planning a HHW/E-Waste collection event in the Rowland Heights area later this year. The following is a list of three upcoming County HHW/E-Waste collection events that may be of convenience to the Hacienda Heights residents:
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The City of La Puente
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
La Puente Park
501 N Glendora Ave.
La Puente, CA 91744
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The City of La Habra Heights
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Hacienda Park (The Park)
Hacienda Blvd and Encanada Drive
La Habra Heights, CA 90241
Saturday, August 9, 2008
The Unincorporated Whittier
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Rio Hondo College, Parking Lot “A”
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
My parents are 89 years old and quite frail. My father recently became confined to a wheelchair and my mother can no longer provide the care he needs (she is very frail and sickly). He cannot even put on his socks and shoes without help.
My mother has been so worried about the situation that she is now in the hospital due to (what we think) was an anxiety attack.
Does the county have any programs where they can send caretakers into the elderly's home once or twice a day to help?
The County havs services that your parents would certainly qualify for. A description of our agency and summary of our services are below:
SASSFA, or the Southeast Area Social Services Funding Authority, is a non-profit agency which provides social services at no cost for the elderly, the economically disadvantaged and other area residents with special needs. SASSFA’s Senior Services programs are funded in part by a grant from the Los Angeles County Area Agency on Aging, through the Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended. SASSFA’s service area includes: Santa Fe Springs, Whittier, La Mirada, Pico Rivera and adjacent unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. SASSFA provides
1. Care Management Services for the frail elderly and functionally impaired adults 18 years and older to obtain needed services which would enable them to remain at home safely, with a measure of independence and dignity.
2. Home Delivered Meals for older adults age 60 years or older, homebound due to illness, surgery, or otherwise isolated. This includes one hot meal per day Mon. through Fri. served at lunchtime.
3. Home Based Care which matches clients who are in need of a home chore worker (IHSS or private pay) to a qualified individual. SASSFA has limited funds for clients who can’t afford to pay for home chore services and/or personal care. We provide four hours per week assistance with light housekeeping (dusting, vacuuming, laundry, etc.) or personal care needs that include four hours per week assistance with bathing, dressing and grooming to seniors age 60 and over.
4. Respite Care is offered to relieve caregivers who are providing regular care for frail elderly family members age 60 and over. It is available to caregivers on a limited basis once a week.
5. Senior Nutrition Program provides a hot nutritious meal at the sites listed below.
- Adventure Park, 10130 Gunn Avenue, Whittier, 562-318-8124
- La Mirada Activity Center,13810 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, (562) 947-8787
- Los Nietos Neighborhood Center, 11640 E. Slauson, Whittier, (562) 699-9873
- Neighborhood Center, 9255 S. Pioneer Blvd., Santa Fe Springs, (562) 692-0261
- Mayberry Park, 13201 E. Meyer Rd., Whittier,(562) 944-7745
- Whittier Senior Center, 13225 Walnut St., Whittier, (562) 464-3367
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
Our public schools are in need of funds. Cutting on teachers will not benefit children. It will affect children future education. How do you plan to support school education and the budget for our public school continue to provide a quality education. I urge you to consider elementary, middle, and high school as a priority.
The Los Angeles County Supervisors do not have the authority over public schools. The funds for public schools come from the State of California. Contacting the Governor's office, your state legislators and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jack O'Connell, would be a direct way for you to voice your concerns regarding California public education.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
Your program to support arts education with small grants is so valuable. The Hmong Association Qeej Not Gangs program in Long Beach would like to apply for 2008, but we are not locating information. Please send us information.
The Arts Education Partnership Program application period for the 2008 funds was in the Fall of 2007. The application for the 2009 funds will be available in the Fall of 2008. We will notify you when the application will go online at Knabe.com.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
The Admiralty Apts being erected at Palawan Way and Admiralty is exceeding height limits and adding to the traffic chaos in the Marina. Just come down to the Marina and see for yourself with more buildings going up every day. What are the plans for the old Harbor House etc. There are banners up but don't know what they refer to.
Pertaining to the Admiralty Apartments project: Both the Marina del Rey LUP and LACC (Sec. 22.46.1840) stipulate that improvements on this parcel can be constructed to the maximum legal height of 140 feet. In issuance of Coastal Development Permit & Conditional Use Permit No. 03-029-(4), the California Coastal Commission staff acknowledged the maximum height allowable by law and concluded that the project’s designed height of 72 feet is well within the 140-foot requirement. Regrettably, occasional minor traffic inconveniences at any construction site are unavoidable. The lessee is strictly in compliance with conditions of the Building and Safety Permit, including deployment of flagman to control traffic during major phase of work that may cause any traffic congestion. You may be glad to know that the project should be completed in approximately 7 months and everything will be well.
Pertaining to the Old Harbor House: The County has recently approved a sublease between the lessee and the sublessee, The Organic Panificio, LLC, to remodel the former Harbor House and Edie’s Diner for use as a full-service Italian restaurant. The Organic Panificio will feature a bar, wine lounge, and two dining rooms serving organic meats, pastas, pizza, salads, sandwiches, and coffee. The establishment will also have banquet facilities.
The main facility, where the former Harbor House used to be, will offer fine dining with operating hours between 11:00 am and 2:00 am. The area where Edie’s Diner was located will offer casual dining, including a small deli area to sell pre-packaged food from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. Panificio is anticipating a grand opening in April or the early spring. Remodeling work is progressing well.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I have a problem with the LA County Dept. of Public Works - Building and Safety. Due to recent changes in building codes they are unwilling to help get a permit for a simple enclosed patio. What used to take a couple of weeks is now stalled 6-9 months according to the company/contractor I wish to have install the patio. The process used to take only a couple of weeks. It is my understanding that many other cities, including Whittier, have been able to work this out and permits are being issued for patio installations in most or all cities. However, after several meetings with the Dept., I am told by the company I hired that LA County will do nothing to help out. Apparently, it is currently not possible to get simple work done (like a patio) in LA County anymore, unless of course, if I lived 2 blocks north in the city of Whittier. Then all would be fine.
So my question is: who has oversight over this Agency in LA County? Whom might I go to for help?
Getting a building permit for patio is pretty simple. Once you get an approval from the Regional Planning Department, the Building and Safety normally takes care of it over the counter.
For residential patio two different materials are being used commonly, one is wood and the other one is metal. Wood is very popular construction material and widely used by most of the people. That is the reason we call "conventional framing". But metal structure is somewhat different. There are all sorts of different materials and products by different manufacturers.
In order for us to review the structural safety of metal building, material specifications and engineering have to be submitted to the Building and Safety office for approval. It is very time consuming. Since metal industry knows about this fact, they are getting approval from the recognized agencies such as ICC. Local jurisdiction is normally accepting their approval. In this case there is no issue. We handle the permit over the counter.
You could submit material specifications and structural calculations based on new Building Code to the Building and Safety office for this project only if he wants. All documents and plans shall be stamped and signed by the registered engineer. Allow 3~5 weeks to review.
The South Whittier District Office of Building and Safety is located at 13523 Telegraph Road Whittier CA 90605 562-946-1390.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
The County of Los Angels Board of Supervisors awarded Burrrtec Waste Industries, Inc. the contract for our trash pick up. They do give discounts for Seniors and disabled citizens, BUT by doing so they give us smaller containers. This raises a RED FLAG to those who prey on senior citizens. I hope that you can bring that up at your next meeting or on your own make the companies change their policy.
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the new residential trash and recycling services that Burrtec will provide beginning April 1, 2008.
The senior discount is offered under the following scenarios with the different cart sizes.
96 gallon carts for residents who meet the following criteria: head of household, over 62 and qualify for utility rate discounts based on financial need OR
32 gallon carts for residents who meet the following criteria: head of household, over 62 and generate a small amount of waste and uses 32-gallon carts
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
Congratulations on your appointment to the Senior Advisory level of Homeland Security! As a resident, I am glad to know that our local interests & support will be fed directly to the powers that be at both the State & Federal levels.
As a CERT volunteer, I'd like to know if you or your staff have any advice on assistance to establish a Community Emergency Response Team in an unincorporated area, such as Rowland Heights. LA City has the ability to coordinate volunteers in their local municipality via the CERT-LA website. But who can we go to for help in organizing volunteers in an unincorporated area in an effort to maintain skills & recruit more trained volunteers?
Since you reside in an unincorporated area, the lead agency responsible for CERT Training is the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The contact person is Captain Jeff Vrooman and he can be reached by calling (323) 881-3064.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I've just read your release on the $1 million + money going to improve multiple parks. I live across from the Del Rey Lagoon Park in Playa del Rey, which didn't receive any funds. How was the decision made to fund individual parks? What could/should either we as residents or the city park employees done to qualify for some of those funds?
These funds were offered to cities via a competitive grant process to improve their communities in a variety of categories, from at-risk youth centers to urban reforestation to senior centers. General park improvements to city parks were not eligible. All cities in the Fourth District were invited to apply but the City of Los Angeles did not apply for any funds for Playa del Rey or any other community.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Mr. Knabe, According to your press release of July 12, 2007, you presented Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster with $5 Million in Proposition A funds on July 12th, for these very projects in the same allocations, as agenda item 1-P (printed below) proposes to give to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) next Tuesday.
Why are you proposing to give the MRCA a like amount of money for the exact same projects? What does the MRCA have to do with Long Beach, anyway? It is a local government partnership between the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, the Conejo Recreation & Park District of Thousand Oaks; and the Rancho Simi Recreation & Park District up in Simi Valley. Perhaps Mayor Foster returned the money? Or is this how public access to El Sol Beach in Malibu has managed to elude us for 30 years?
Thanks you for your interest in the $5,000,000 that I have awarded to the City of Long Beach for its projects along the Los Angeles River. As you correctly point out the funding was announced in Long Beach on July 12, 2007, when I presented the City with a ceremonial check for the $5,000,000 to be granted with funds from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District.
The agenda item 1-P set for Board of Supervisors action on September 18, 2007, will make the funding official and instructs the Open Space District to make a grant for the funds for the projects to the City of Long Beach. It may seem that we are awarding the funds to the Mountains Restoration and Conservation Authority (MRCA) but in fact, MRCA will not actually receive the funds. MRCA will immediately assign the right to apply for the $5,000,000 to the City of Long Beach and so there is no duplication of funding.
The funds are coming from the Safe Neighborhood Parks Proposition of 1996 and the Proposition stipulates that funds for projects along the Los Angeles River must be awarded to the MRCA. However, the City of Long Beach and the MRCA agreed that Long Beach and not the MRCA would be the best agency to carry out these important projects.
The Excess Funds used to fund the projects for Long Beach and Paramount come with strict requirements attached to them in the Proposition and can only be used to fund projects along the Los Angeles River. However, several projects in the Marina del Rey area have benefited from Proposition funds. They include
- $235,630 for improvements at Marina Beach
- $5,345,000 for improvements at Dockweiler Beach
- $114,000 for improvements to the Marina del Rey boat launch facility
- $3,345,000 for improvements to Venice Beach
- $200,000 for access to the Ballona Lagoon Marine Preserve
- $100,000 for improvements to Ballona Creek Trail \
- As well as several grants for beach projects to the neighboring cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Santa Monica which is in the Third Supervisorial District.
If you have more detailed questions about any of the projects, please feel free to contact the Open Space District directly. Their administrator, Ilona Volkmann, would be glad to discuss this matter with you further. Here is how you can reach her:
Ilona Volkmann Department of Parks and Recreation Regional Park and Open Space District 510 South Vermont Avenue, 2nd Floor Los Angeles, CA 90020 Office (213) 738-2981 Fax (213) 385-0875 E-Mail: ivolkmann@lacountyparks.org
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I am a student of the PACE program at Harbor College. We are trying to get a large number of student to various location for off campus credit. For example plays, museums, etc. If there is any information you can give me I would greatly appreciate it.
In answer to your question, yes, my office often does provide buses for non-profit organizations that serve the Fourth District. Any request for bus services needs to be faxed or mailed to my local field office. Since you’re from Lomita, your local field office is located in Torrance. Here is the contact information for that office:
Fourth District Torrance Field Office 825 Maple Avenue Torrance, CA 90503 Tel: (310) 222-3015 Fax: (310) 320-4058
Your letter needs to include the following information:
- Name of Organization - Brief description of organization when requesting for the first time - Nature or purpose of field trip (seniors, youth, community, etc) - Date of Trip - Number of people - Pick up location and time - Destination address and time to return to pick up location - Contact information (including fax number)
If you have additional questions, you can contact the Torrance Field Office for help.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe,
I wrote to you a couple of weeks ago about what was happening with the Marina as far as the availability of slips (25') for small boat owners such as myself.
I heard from the Department of Beaches and Harbors and they wound up finding me a slip at a Marina I had talked to just a week before and had no luck.
Just wanted to thank you both for the effort as I doubt if I would have found a slip to go to once the marina I'm in now starts their re-building.
Thanks again,
Larry
Chatsworth
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I am a small (25') boat owner and have kept it in Marina Del Rey since I got it in 1988. In the last few years my wife and I have been in many different marinas and we have had to move several times as the marinas are rebuilt and small slips are eliminated. This time we are in a slip in Bar Harbor and that is due to be demolished soon.
We have been trying to find another slip to move to, hopefully one that has already been redone so we will not have to continue to look for a new slip every year or two.
I'm still continuing to look for a slip, but it seems it may be impossible.
Larry
Chatsworth
Dear Larry:
I am glad to hear the County was able to assist you with finding a Marina and thank you for your note.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
The last public meeting in regard to the Termino Drain project was in March of 2007.I would also like to know if this project indeed has been funded. A section of this proposed project has been long neglected (years now) and we as a community are working to improve the aesthetics, but there is only so much we can do unless we know how long before the project will begin. Since this area is adjacent to many of our members' properties, the outcome of the situation directly impacts their property values.
The Termino Avenue Drain project is funded. At this time, Public Works is completing the environmental document. After the document is approved, Public Works will obtain the necessary permits and finalize the design, and expects to have the project under construction in late-2008.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Mr. Knabe: Could you please explain why you do not support a dog beach at Dockweiler? I feel very strongly about the subject, I'm familiar with both sides of the issue, and I do not understand why you continue to oppose the dog beach.
Thank you for your recent email regarding your desire to establish a dog beach at Dockweiler State Beach (Dockweiler). I appreciate the opportunity to clarify my position and the issues surrounding the current prohibition of dogs at Dockweiler, which is based on the opposition of several different groups to establishing a dog beach at Dockweiler at this time.
Dockweiler is a unit of the State park system and is operated by the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors by agreement. Dogs are prohibited either on or off a leash at all beach areas owned or operated by the County, as well as by the City of Los Angeles for those beaches within the City’s boundaries, which includes Dockweiler. Additionally, current State law does not allow dogs at Dockweiler.
I have been opposed to a dog beach at Dockweiler as previously proposed due to the health, safety, and liability concerns raised by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, Heal the Bay, Malibu Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, the Santa Monica Bay Audubon Society, and the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Below is an outline of the concerns raised by some of these groups which have not been adequately addressed to date:
Los Angeles County Fire Department
- The need for lifeguards to regulate dog activity would detract from their primary focus of water safety.
- The potential exists that lifeguards might be drawn into animal control issues for which they are not trained or equipped. This would be especially problematic with aggressive breeds such as bull terriers. Two of our on-duty Lifeguards have been hospitalized due to dog bites. The no leash concept would exacerbate the risk to our lifeguards.
- The overall health and safety of our employees that will have to patrol and respond to this area. Studies have confirmed the potential for toxoplasmosis and other pathogens related to animal waste to negatively impact human health.
- Staffing will have to increase in this area due to the increased volume of beach patrons. Costs to staff, train and equip our employees to regulate a dog beach have been estimated at $54,000 annually with an additional start-up cost of $47,000 (initial training and equipment).
- Dockweiler Beach has become more popular due to a recent upgrade in facilities and amenities. Dockweiler South (DWS), the area that Freeplay would like to locate a dog beach, had 1,506,900 beach visitors in 2006. In addition, in 2006, 310 rescues and 361 first aids were performed by our Lifeguards at DWS. Note: Dockweiler is divided into 3 sub-areas approximately 1 mile each.
- Parking Safety - The area Freeplay has proposed a dog beach has no adjacent public parking lot. Most dog owners will select to park for free along Vista Del Mar, which is a highly trafficked artery to Manhattan Beach/Playa Vista/MDR. Crossing Vista Del Mar is very dangerous. In addition, traffic accidents with parked vehicles are very common along this stretch of highway behind Dockweiler Beach. Human safety is the most critical issue, but responding to traffic accidents also pulls Lifeguard resources off the beach.
- Dockweiler beach is a lease-tern habitat (endangered species). Snowy plovers, another endangered species, also frequent Dockweiler Beach. The Ballona wetlands are being restored to attract and promote the return of wildlife. Migratory birds often stop and recreate on our shorelines. A dog beach in such close proximity to a wetlands restoration project is not pragmatic or practical.
Department of Beaches & Harbors
-The inability of dog owners to control the actions of the their pets.
- The potential for bacterial contamination from the release of waste material in highly trafficked public areas.
- The high probability that a significant amount of dog feces will not and/or cannot be removed (despite the best intentions of dog owners).
- The anticipation that dogs will fight with other dogs, or will bite and/or bark at beach patrons (with children being particularly vulnerable).
- The anticipation that dogs will chase cyclists due to the bike path’s close proximity to Dockweiler State Beach. It can also be anticipated that strollers, joggers, vehicles, wildlife, et al will be chased.
Department of Health Services
- The potential for jeopardizing public health and safety of beach patrons due to the potential of a disease outbreak caused by parasites and diseases that are transferred from dogs to humans.
- The concern that the services of the DHS veterinary office would be needed to determine the source of any outbreak and to control the problem.
- The potential for increased posting of beach warning signs if ocean bacterial levels become unsafe.
County Counsel
- County Counsel has indicated that this proposal would result in significant issues regarding County liability and indemnification.
- County Counsel does not believe that the indemnification language and the signage provisions of past proposals will immunize the County from all liability arising from the County authorized presence of off-leash dogs on a public beach operated by the County.
- There has been no guarantee that the County would be indemnified for all such liability and litigation expense when it incurs.
California Department of Parks and Recreation
- Under existing law and regulation, off-leash dogs are not permitted in parks owned by the California Department of Parks and Recreation because they present a potential threat to visitors, park staff, wildlife and each other.
- Dogs can impact aesthetics and the sense of peace sought by many visitors to State Parks, with many other park visitors complaining that their experience is negatively impacted by dogs.
- Rosario P. Cortes, Assistant Director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation expressed the Department’s opposition to a dog beach at Dockweiler because off-leash dogs would conflict with the mission of the Department to protect rare and valuable natural resources having statewide significance, and that existing law and regulation prohibit dogs off-leash on any State beach, thereby concluding that neither the County of Los Angeles, or any other local entity, could legally establish an off-leash dog area at Dockweiler State Beach, or any other State beach.
Heal the Bay
- This organization contends that people are more likely to become ill after swimming at beaches that allow dogs to run or play in the surfzone or on areas of the beach that are subject to tides.
- Even when dog owners are diligent about removing dog feces and urine, small amounts will remain on the sand and contaminate the water, and may cause illness to exposed humans, especially children (more prone to hand to mouth activities near the shoreline) and those adults with compromised immune systems.
My staff and I have also reviewed the independent study of dog beaches conducted by the California Research Bureau as requested by Assemblymember Ted Lieu. At best the report is inconclusive on health issues, stating on page 31 that: "Dog waste is clearly a part of the pollution mix. However, given the current testing practices and limitations, it is difficult to measure and quantify the amount of contamination that dog waste contributes to the beaches and water." We have experienced some less than stellar grades for the water quality at portions of Dockweiler in the past, and we need to be sure that we won’t be adding to the problem in the future. Moreover
, the report does not address the issue of sand contamination, which can pose a continuing health threat as we learned after the sewage spill in Manhattan Beach last winter. Despite the best efforts of dog owners, there will be some bacterial residue wherever dogs defecate or urinate.
Additionally, while the report shows that there are a number of dog beaches up and down the coast, each is unique to its surroundings and circumstances. For example, contrary to what Freeplay would like, the report shows that the majority of dog beaches require that dogs be leashed in recognition of concerns regarding health, safety, and liability.
Off leash dog beaches are typically located where the beach isn’t used as frequently by the general public. In this instance, Freeplay has proposed to establish an unfenced, off-leash area for a dog beach that would extend for approximately 1 mile along Dockweiler.
However, no other urban area has the same volume of visitors as Los Angeles County beaches, which hosts over 50 million visitors a year. As stated above, the area that Freeplay would like to locate a dog beach had 1,506,900 beach visitors in 2006, with 310 rescues and 361 first aids performed by County Lifeguards. Thus, there is a greater potential of conflict between dogs, dog owners, County personnel, and the beach going public at Dockweiler than there is at other dog beaches.
Let me be clear: I love dogs and I have been a long time supporter of designated dog parks where dogs and their owners can recreate freely. However, the proposed unfenced, off-leash dog beach proposed by Freeplay raises too many unanswered questions and risk to the public for the reasons stated above.
I remain open to the idea of further recreation opportunities for dogs and their owners, but I have yet to receive any proposal from Freeplay that sufficiently addresses these issues of safety, health, and liability. I hope to get such a proposal in the near future.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I have four potholes on our street the deepest one is about 5 inches deep. The street is in need a repair or at the least it needs the potholes filled.
Our street address is Hacienda Blvd. However it actually is separate and runs next to Hacienda Blvd.
Thank you for your note and I am glad to hear the County quickly responded to your request for help.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Don:
I'm not so sure that I should be a subscriber to your e-mail newsletter. I find some things rather disturbing, to say the least.
When you or the State is spending 2.6 million dollar for a sprinkler system for Los Verdes golf course I was amazed. First: WHY? Do you believe that it is good public policy to subsidize the rich and very rich? That is NOT good public policy in my way of thinking, period.
And a sub note to this golf- course policy is what about cost? Is this another deal that the contract goes to the highest bidder, because he knows someone in high places? Hey, we're talking about a new set of plastic pipes and some sprinkler heads. Does 1.5 million go to some's pocket? As said on TV-- Give Me A Break!
Don, you could use some suggestions on good public policies (related). As you well know, we are in a water shortage. How about a new water plant near PV, such as ocean RO system, or more aggressive reclamation of waste water (not far away)? Or even better, re-routing the wasted water pumped from the Portuguese Bend slide to the golf course? I bet 2.6 million dollars would help these efforts and would indeed be in the real public interest. Reclaiming waste water would help free up fresh water.
Thank you for your kind comments regarding the Safe Surrender program for abandoned newborns.
As far as the concerns you expressed, I wanted to clarify some of the facts of these projects. Los Verdes Golf Course is far from an enclave for the rich and very rich. It is a County course and at just over $25 a round, it remains just a fraction of the cost to play as compared to private courses in the local area. Affordable access to public golf is something I am firmly committed too and as such, I am also committed to the improvements and upkeep of our public courses, such as a new irrigation system.
The cost of the project will have a minimal impact on the County's bottom line. Only $200,000 of the $2.6 million is coming from the County coffers. The rest is coming from fees the golfers pay to use the course, fees that must be reinvested into that particular golf course, and voter-approved funds for improving open space.
This is not a case where the contract is going to a contractor with good connections. In fact, the County has strict guidelines to ensure that contracts go to the lowest bidder so taxpayer’s monies are not wasted. The current irrigation system is over 30 years old and the new system will include the latest technology that will allow use to only water the course when truly needed, and not after recent rains or damp weather. This project will help save tax dollars in the long run by not wasting water.
Additionally, you'll be happy to know that your thoughts about wastewater usage on the golf course match my own thoughts on the issue. Last year, I advocated for the successful opening of the County's new Office of Recycled Water. One of the first program's that was started was the transfer of watering our parks and golf courses with recycled grey water rather than fresh water.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
You posted that Los Angeles County tax dollars were being used to upgrade street lighting in "Long Beach". If this area is within the city limits of Long Beach, why isn't the city picking up the entire cost?
Outside of any contracted services I understood that infrastructure issues would be paid for solely by city tax dollars. I am pleased with how county government is caring for my community and I would not want to see resources siphoned off to supplement another tax base.
In response to your email, you are quite right, this project is fully within the City of Long Beach, however these streets are also technically considered County highways since they pass through multiple local jurisdictions. Because of that, the County has a vested interest in the upkeep of these streets even though they may be within a City.
The California Streets and Highways Code also says that the Board of Supervisors of any county may, by a resolution adopted by a four-fifths vote of its members, determine that certain types of road improvements on specified streets are of general county interest and that county aid may be extended for this purpose. County aid may be provided in the form of labor, equipment, and materials, or a direct payment to the city.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
Vista del Mar should be a scenic coastal drive, but it is a mess and continues to deteriorate! Why do we need parking there have you ever driven along there especially on a hot day??? It is the worst obstacle course I have ever been on! I have to take that street at least 2X's a day. It is horrible! The fences and signs are caving in the graffiti is in the curbs and on the signs, there are rusted old railings! Kids running across the busy street and cars opening doors while people are trying to avoid people in the streets and cars stopping suddenly to find a parking spot. why can't everyone just park in the new spaces?? I hear they need free spots? Well make free spots then in the parking lot!!!!
I agree with you that the conditions along Vista del Mar present both a safety hazard and an eyesore to an area that attracts more than three million visitors each year.
Because the County agrees with you, although Vista del Mar is not the responsibility of the County, we have spent the last few years creating and then generating support for an expansion plan for the park across the street from Dockweiler State Beach. The plan would include a free parking lot for approximately 500 cars, which we hope will be enough to secure agreement from the Coastal Commission that the Vista del Mar curbs may be painted red, something that hasn’t been approved until now because it is believed to reduce public access to the beach. A signalized crossing would enhance public safety for those wanting to cross the street to access the beach. Two ADA ramps are planned from Vista del Mar down the slopes to the beach. Improved landscaping would include rebuilding the bluff along Dockweiler Beach to reduce the current erosion of that site.
Accomplishing these much-needed improvements to a blighted and unsafe area must involve the concerted effort of the two additional public entities with whom we have been working: Los Angeles City and LAX. We are working together to make these improvements a reality. Designs have been prepared and public meetings are being held. This project is vitally important to ensure the safety and stability of one of Southern California’s coastal treasures.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I take the liberty of writing to let you know the unsettling news that a burglary happened to us last Friday with total loss of thousands in US dollars. Last weekend we could not sleep at night and worried that someone would break in again. We are in a panicked mode now and have not been picking up yet.
In order to prevent such things from happening, we, on behalf of our neighbors, request that the following things be done if feasible:
1. Installation of a neighborhood watch program sign at the intersection of Dryden and Dunswell with police department contact information.
2. Installation of a sign saying that it is not a through street in the same place.
3. The police patrol should be enforced in my area during the day time.
I have discussed this incident with Deputy Brian Sanford, the Hacienda Heights Town Sheriff. He will be contacting you to discuss the crime situation in Hacienda Heights. He will help you and maybe set up a Neighborhood Watch Group in your neighborhood. We are very concerned with your safety and that of your neighbors. Please be assured that we will do anything and everything to make our community safe and will work with you and your neighbors to accomplish that.
I have also directed Mr. James Yang, from our Department of Public Works to look into the feasibility of signage on your street as requested below.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
You recently said the Pedro Social Security office will be closed, but "Using the San Pedro Service Center as a Social Security site is a practical way of keeping these vital services in this community."
What is the address for this Service Center and what other services does it provide?
The San Pedro Service Center is located at 769 West Third Street, San Pedro, California 90731. A community meeting room and classrooms are available to all citizen groups and non-profit organizations for meetings and other public information sessions. The staff are bi-lingual (Spanish/English), and can help in other languages upon request.
The services that are provided at the Center are as follows: Food Pantry/Bread Program - Food distribution is conducted Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Each individual or family receives a box of food monthly. Recipients are asked to call the day before and pick-up the next day. All paper work of clients are on file. No one is turned away. The bread give-away is on Tuesday and Fridays until all the bread is given out. The bread is provided to the Center by a local church. The Center currently serves approximately 300 households.
ESL Classes - In cooperation with the L.A. Unified School District, the Center offers English as a Second Language courses. Classes are twice weekly, three hours per day in the mornings.
Citizenship Classes – Highly sought-after by the area residents, this service is prepares individuals for their citizenship processing. The Center offers classes twice a week in the afternoon, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The class averages 18-20 students.
Computer Classes - The Center offers these very popular classes on weekdays from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Senior Nutrition Program - Funded by the Department of Aging, City of Los Angeles, the Center serves 45-50 seniors daily Mondays to Fridays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. A donation of $1.50 per senior is requested.
Toy Loan Program - The program is a free service that provides toys to area children. The children borrow toys from the Center once a week. This program is open twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Renter's Rebate – Center staff assists homeowners and renters who need help in preparing their renter’s rebate claim forms. These services is free to the public and generally services U.S. citizens, 62 or older and the blind or disabled that have a total household income of $38,505 or less. Filing claims are typically done June thru October of each year.
Case Management - The Center assists individuals and families that need guidance in working through a number of issues that arise in their daily lives. Center staff provides daily information and referral services on domestic violence, housing, mental health, legal matters, employment, social security, health, home care providers, Medicare, elder abuse, etc., and helps mediate issues that arise.
Speaker Series - The Center offers special speakers on disaster preparedness, safety (Harbor Police Department), emergency (Fire Department), consumer affairs, Medicare, social security, various health problems, etc.
Craft and Sewing Class – These classes meet on Mondays, Tuesday, and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. They average 10-15 students at any given time. Clothing made as part of the class are donated to children's charities.
“Senior Wednesday Club” – The club currently has 300 members that meet every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Rachel Viramontes is the current President.
“Open Arms Senior Club” – The club currently has 50 members and continues to grow. They meet every Friday at 9:00 a.m. Irene Banuelos, President.
Child Care Services - “Comprehensive Development Child Care” is housed at the center and operates through the California Department of Education, Child Care Division. They provide pre-school education and daycare services to approximately 72 children.
I hope this is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I notice that all my utility bills (I live in Rowland Heights) have a 5% county users tax that nearby city residents don't pay.
How much money does this tax generate for the County from our community?
How does the County utilize that money?
How much of it filters back to Rowland Heights.
Can you please give me some examples showing what this money has supported this past year?
The Utility User Tax was initiated by the Board of Supervisors in 1991 and raises revenue for general government purposes of the county. All of the proceeds from the tax imposed by this tax are placed in the county's general fund and used for expenses of County Departments such as Parks (local and regional), Libraries, Sheriff's (COPS Deputies), District Attorney, Office of Public Safety and the Health Department. In a general comparison, residents of Rowland Heights pay the Utility User tax, and a Library Assessment of $25. A sampling of a general tax rate area of a City of Walnut resident show similar tax rates, plus a $300. Walnut Light and Open Space Zone #4 tax.
County-wide income from the Utility User Tax (referred to as Prop 62) is $44 million dollars this past year and is disseminated to all five districts. Of this amount, the Fourth District received $9.1 million of which $2.4 million was allocated to Parks and Recreation, and $3.7million was allocated to the Public Library for example.
Within the Fourth District, park staffing has increased by 29% to provide additional recreation programs. One example of recent park enhancements within Rowland Heights area include; Park staff and a grounds maintenance worker at Schabarum Regional Park and one time $1 million dollar deferred maintenance funds. Tree trimming crew enhancements for local parks, additional work crews and trail maintenance and brush clearance was also enhanced for parks within the Fourth District. Electrical, plumbing and carpentry maintenance at local and regional facilities increased by 50%.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
Can you tell me where I can take an American flag to be "retired" honorably ?
You can give an American Flag an honorable disposal by delivering it to any County Fire Station. The County then performs a disposal ceremony at our Pacoima warehouse. Additionally, VFW Halls and local Boy Scout troops can also assist you.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
Why is it that I will have to start from square one to start foster parenting again. I had been previously a licensed foster parent for 13 years and was forced to give up my license due to the Bates issue and then retained Guardianship of the remaining 3 children from the county and in 1998 I became a foster parent again and then adopted in 1999.
Gave up my license but still retained guardianship and had LA County social workers in my home. I wish to foster again but do not want to go thru the MAPP PS classes. It is spread out over a months time and this time could be better spent in caring for an infant with special needs that I desire to do and am well trained for.
I understand that I need to get licensed and CPR which I am in the process of. Fingerprinting was done by live scan for my adoptions. Home studies were done, isn't this a waste of time? I am not a person that has left the system. I am still very much involved and have a Medically Fragile social work in my home monthly. Could not some considerations be made to fast track the whole ordeal again?
I am very appreciative of the care you have provided to our County's medically needy children and hope that you will choose again to become a licensed caregiver.
My staff has discussed your concerns with DCFS. They have advised us that it is necessary for you to complete the PS-MAPP course. Since you last completed it, the course has been greatly revised. Also, for your information, we confirmed that it is a six-week course and is not spread out over months as mentioned in your message.
Karen Richardson, the DCFS PS-MAPP manager, is available at
(626) 229-3794 if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I attended a meeting recently where it was mentioned that there is grant money available for schools in our area for small projects. Where can I find more information on that, and how much can we ask for?
Here is more information on how the grant program works:
HACIENDA HEIGHTSCOMMUNITY BENEFIT AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION TRUST FUND
Background – The Community Benefit and Environmental Education Trust Fund was established as a condition of the most recent Conditional Use Permit (Case. No. 02-027-(4)) approved to allow the further expansion of the Puente Hills Landfill.
Purpose - This fund was established “for the purpose of providing resources for environmental, educational, and quality of life programs, regional public facilities that serve the surrounding communities, and other benefits within the surrounding communities.” The Annual Community Grant Program is established to provide smaller annual grants to community-minded groups serving Hacienda Heights.
Eligibility – The grants will be awardedonly to local community-based organizations which will serve to benefit the parameters of the Community Benefit and Environmental Education Trust Fund. These grants will generally be limited to community-based organizations that are non-profit and provide a service to the community. No monies shall be allocated for capital expenditures.
Grant Amount – Each grant will be generally limited to $10,000 per grantee annually. A total of $75,000 will be available annually for this grant program. This annual amount may be exceeded by the Supervisor.
Granting Authority – The Los Angeles County Fourth District Supervisor shall approve grant requests at his sole discretion.
Grant Requests – Grant requests shall be submitted in writing to the office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe:
Dickie Simmons, Deputy Office of Supervisor Don Knabe, Fourth District 1199 S. Fairway Drive, Suite 111 Walnut, CA 91789
Grant requests shall include the following:
- Statement of the purpose of the grant
- Description of grantee organization and its service to the Hacienda Heights Community
- Opportunities for matching funds
- Time table to expend the funds - Budget
Each grantee will be required to submit a completion report, including project outcomes, receipts, and description of community benefits.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Supervisor Knabe:
I would like to know why the restrooms are locked in the Registrar-Recorder offices on Imperial Blvd. This is a public building and they should be available to everyone on every floor. Can you explain why they are locked?
Thank you for bringing to my attention the issue regarding public access to restrooms in the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's Office located in the City of Norwalk.
As you may know, the vast majority of public seeking departmental services are taken care of on the first floor of the facility which provides both vital record requests and document recording. Currently, restrooms are available for use by the public on the first floor. As a result of restroom vandalism and past security issues, at the time the new building security system was installed, employee restrooms were programmed for access only by keycard. As a result of your inquiry and to better service the public I have directed staff to post signs and have available access cards at public counters for restroom access in other public areas throughout the facility.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
My family and I have lived in the city of La Mirada for over 30 years. A little over twenty years ago we moved to a home on a private driveway on Imperial Hwy between Ocaso and Cordova streets. In the 20 years that we have lived in that home we have experienced and encountered numerous accidents (a few resulting in deaths), speeding violations with (no police in sight) and a blatant disregard for the homes and families that live in and have to pull into and drive out of those driveways. It is a constant problem because traffic does not and will not slow down. What plans are there to combat this problem?
I asked the Sheriff’s Department to review the traffic citations and collision statistics utilizing the Crossroads data base and we discovered the following:
Between January 1, 2006, and April 11, 2007, the city of La Mirada Traffic Enforcement Team wrote 39 citations for a variety of traffic related violations. During the same period, there were a total of 12 traffic collisions (1 fatal and 4 with injuries).
This particular area is a six lane highway with three westbound and three eastbound lanes of travel. It is unsafe for the deputies and citizens to come to a stop on this stretch of Imperial Highway because they would have to stop in the number three lane of travel.
I have shared your concerns with the La Mirada Sheriff’s Station and instructed the La Mirada Motor Units to pay close attention to the area.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
Can you please tell me when I can look forward to the sound wall construction on the 60 Freeway. I have been waiting for over 20 years and thought it was going to start in April of this year.
Is there anything we can do about all the tarps that people are putting up to shade their cars. My neighbor has two and is thinking about buying two more!
Good News! Construction on the sound walls begins in May 2007 with completion in summer 2011 in conjunction with the Pomona Freeway HOV Construction Project. This project will improve traffic flow on the Pomona Freeway between the San Gabriel River Freeway and Brea Canyon Road with the addition of one High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane in each direction.
On the tarps, if you’re concerned with the appearance of their neighborhood should call 211 or the Code Enforcement Hotline at (877) 966-2633.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
Can the County do something about stopping the Diamond Bar Annexation Plan? What I really don't understand is how Diamond Bar can allow Shell-AREA to build 3600 housing units when they failed the County's Environmental requirements. I think the possibility of losing the Wildlife Corridor is just so sad. We would lose the animals ability to roam freely through the entire Corridor on into the forests. Please do what you can to preserve California's and our County's special Corridor and take care of the wildlife who were here way before we were. Thank you for reading this and I hope you are able to make some positive steps for us.
The AERA properties did not "fail" any County environmental requirements. Their master plan has not been fully reviewed by the County and due to the request of the City of Diamond Bar, there is an annexation process that is winding its way through the entitlement process. The proposed AERA development has already indicated that they will dedicate over 50% of their property to open spaces and to the protection of the "Wildlife Corridor" that runs through their property.
I am keenly aware of the potential impacts that this development will have on our communities and will take the necessary efforts to express those concerns when the public hearings on these matters are held.
Thank you for taking the time to write.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
Is it true that there is a plan to take away the bike lanes along Colima Rd. in Hacienda Heights, and add a 3rd traffic lane?
If so, you would certainly taking away a valuable resource to our community.
Dear David: There was a Traffic Congestion Survey done on Colima Road which included the means to mitigate that congestion. Part of the solutions for traffic congestion was the realignment of the lanes on Colima to include the 3rd lane of travel in both directions for the entire length of Colima from Hacienda Heights to Rowland Heights. In as much as parts of Colima are currently 3 lanes and that the bike lanes are intermittent along Colima (they are only designated along parts of the road), it is contemplated that these partial bike lanes be made into bike routes in order to facilitate the addition of these 3rd lanes. This does not eliminate the use of these routes for bikes but merely provides for the added access of vehicles for these lanes of travel.
There has been an informal survey done along Colima and the scarce use of bikes along this roadway have demonstrated that the optimum use of this road would better serve this additional lane with a cautionary sign for it being a bike route.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I heard that the County will provide a group that wants to incorporate East Los Angeles into a City, extensive information on services and assessments, even though this group has not yet submitted a formal application and paid the required fees to the County. I also understand from a County employee that putting this information together from so many County departments will cost over $250,000.
I am frustrated because advocates for the incorporation of Rowland Heights have asked for this information in the past and were told to gather signatures, submit a formal application, pay fees, etc. What is so special about the group in East Los Angeles to earn this special privilege? And why is the County spending so much money to please them? Was this all authorized by the Board? Can the residents in Rowland Heights obtain information for their community? Do we need to call the LA Times to be treated properly?
Seems to me that the rules on this should apply to everyone, or no one.
Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding the County's response to proponents of East Los Angeles incorporation and how it compares to past inquiries from Rowland Heights constituents. No funding has been allocated to the effort to gather information for the proposed East Los Angeles incorporation effort. It is all being done within existing resources; hence there is a 4-month estimate for gathering the data. The only County department which has indicated that they will charge for producing data is the Assessor and the Chief Administrative Officer will identify funding for this charge once it has been determined; it is not expected to be significant.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I have been a resident of the Rowland Heights community, behind the Royal Vista Golf Course, for a couple of years. I have always noticed graffiti in this area, but not as much as recently. Brick fences, sidewalks, as well as the trees of some of my neighbors are now being defaced.
Is there anything we can do to prevent this from happening? Is it possible to get police to patrol the neighborhood at night? I think this might deter the persons committing these acts to stop hanging out in the neighborhood.
Your concerns are also our concerns. We have noticed a surge of graffiti throughout the County in the past few months, and have enhanced graffiti abatement efforts by increasing our work crews from 5 days a week to 7 days a week. I have also directed our Sheriff's deputies to devote more time and effort on graffiti abatement and enforcement. In fact, our deputies are continuing a surveillance program that they started a months ago. They have made arrests, but it seems that the number of people willing to deface property is increasing and it's difficult to stop them all.
I am copying this to our Sheriff's deputies so that they too know of your concerns and they will now direct some attention to your neighborhood. Normally it is very quiet in this area of our community. You may also call in any reports of graffiti to our toll free line at 800-675-4357 or to 211 for any County services, including graffiti. It is our hope to be of service to you to make you feel safe and secure in your home and neighborhood.
I want to thank you for this inquiry, as even at our best, we are only as good as the eyes and ears of our constituents. We depend on the help of you and your neighbors to assist us in this fight to keep our neighborhoods safe and clean, and don't hesitate to call 911 if you see any vandals defacing property.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
A shuttle bus for West Whittier was recently funded by you and a similar shuttle for the Avocado Heights/Basset/Valinda corridor was funded by Gloria Molina. We need a similar service for Rowland Heights. A shuttle running in North & South loops through the residential neighborhoods would provide access to the business district on Colima for those without transportation (youth, elderly, etc.) & help clean up the neighborhoods from the abandoned shopping carts. What is the possibility of this happening?
Our Department of Public Works will be conducting a study in the future to ascertain the needs for future transportation services for our area. Our problem is the amount of ridership or lack of. As you are probably well aware, Foothill Transit eliminated or cutback some of our line loops due to lack of ridership over a year ago. We have service along the major streets but for us or them to add service to other areas would need to demonstrate a sufficient demand that doesn't exist at this time.
Thanks for your comments.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
RE: 1-30-07 News Release "Addl Graffiti Removal Coverage for Rowland
Heights": Will additional cleanup crews be new contractor(s), or additional employees of the existing contractor? If new contractor - Hooray! If existing contractor, then there is still a major opportunity for improvement. Unfortunately, when more than one location is currently reported on a single report (work order), the current contractor usually removes one item and then closes out the work order. The remaining reported locations remain unremoved. Some graffiti reported still remains after many months, despite re-reporting.
Other than to overburden Public Works operators by having them create, for example, 5 work orders (each with 1 location) instead of 1 work order (with 5 locations), are there any alternate suggestions? Per Public Works' web site - graffiti reports by FAX are no longer accepted. Only by phone. Reinstituting the acceptance of graffiti reporting by FAX could make more efficient use of operators' time.
The contract is an "extension" of our existing contract with Urban Graffiti. We are already addressing some of the items that you mentioned. Shortly we will be able to receive reports via email and fax. We are also asking the vendor to be more proactive on painting out surfaces that are not yet reported but observed. This was never supposed to happen and if you see this occurring, please let my office know.
As part of our effort to help stem the rise in graffiti we are asking for a consistent and constant monitoring of high traveled thoroughfares (no tolerance zones); establishing the goal of utilizing the same paint on walls to get away from any "patch work type markings", monitoring our schools and parks and the areas around those for tags, and to work closely with our sheriff deputies who are gearing up to doing sting/surveillance operations to capture these vandals.
I hope this answers your concerns.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Hi Don,
Do the dockmasters at Marina del Rey work for Los Angeles County? Who are they legally accountable to? What laws and code do they have to abide by when they hand out leases to boat owners for slips? Can they charge any fee they want? They seem to have complete power to do whatever they want. What are the governmental, county, state, and Federal laws they must abide by?
To answer your question, the dockmasters in Marina del Rey do not work for the County of Los Angeles.
They work for and are legally accountable to the respective lessees.
The dockmasters follow rules set by the respective anchorages when processing applications for slip rental and must abide by all applicable California laws and regulations.
Slip rental in Marina del Rey is set by market. However, the County will review any complaint of price gouging if someone has filed a complaint and provides specific information that would allow the County to investigate the circumstance.
If you believe you have been unfairly denied the rental of a slip or if your slip rent is excessive, please provide all the relevant information you have and I will have the Department of Beaches and Harbors look into the matter and report back.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I understand the efforts to continue the wildlife corridor in the hills around Whittier, Rowland Heights and Hacienda Heights have been undermined by Shell-Aera and the City of Diamond Bar. Is there any recourse? We may not be able to use Proposition 84 funds to help at this stage. Also, in 2003, a stream was restored at the Diamond Bar golf course with public funds. Now this golf course may be relocated by Diamond Bar and the stream built over, wasting taxpayer money. Why does the "West Side" always have nice open space and East San Gabriel Valley always get more traffic and buildings?
Hacienda Heights, Whittier and the Whittier Narrows all encompass and coordinate their attributes with the Puente Hills Native Habitat Lands. The integrity of the "Wild Life Corridor" is very important to our future. In that regard, we have been working hard to ensure that concerns on the balance of development with preserving these open spaces are continually addressed. It is important to note that AERA has indicated on their preliminary plans and in subsequent discussions, their intention to provide for this "Wild Life Corridor" by preserving over 50% of their development to "open spaces, with the corridor as a centerpiece". Just last year, I took part in dedicating the "Wild Life Underpass" on Harbor Boulevard, which ensures the save passage of animals to and from the AERA properties and provides a vital link throughout the Puente Hills, Chino Hills and the Cleveland National Forest.
In Diamond Bar, their city is in the planning stages of developing a plan to utilize the existing county golf course into a civic center/commercial center/parkland theme with the stream playing a part in the plan. This plan is still in design and initial planning and we have not seen any definitive layouts or features.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
Why is that only certain streets in California Heights, and its surrounding areas, are not modified to meet the needs of disabled individuals? I do a great deal of walking in my neighborhood, and 37th Street seems to be the only section that is equipped to meet the needs of disabled and elderly individuals. My understanding is that a certain amount of money is allocated for such modifications. So, the question is, why is that Long Beach is not using this money to do just that?
Thank you for your question, but the City of Long Beach handles all of their own street/road issues. You mention in your question 37th Street, which is in two different Long Beach City Council districts. At your convenience, please contact my field deputy, so they may forward your concerns to the appropriate member of the Long Beach City Council that serves California Heights. Since you’re from Long Beach, your local field office is located in Signal Hill. Here is the contact information for that office:
Fourth District Long Beach/Signal Hill Field Office
1401 East Willow Street
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Tel: (562) 256-1920
Fax: (562) 490-0549
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
What does the radar do and does it automatically gives tickets? On Walnut and Marine in Manhattan Beach the police are always there and for sure giving tickets at the stop sign. Sometimes people do not make a complete three-second stop. The street is very visible and is easy to make a short stop. I think that the police hide there because it is easy to catch people! But is not fair to us.
There are numerous cars speeding on Grandview Ave. and 24th Street which is near the Grandview elementary school. But I never see any officer enforcing the speed limit at that location.
Thank you for your questions and let me answer them in the order you asked them.
First, the new radar trailers don't actually issue you a ticket. They simply make drivers aware visually when they are driving in excess of the posted speed limit. We use these trailers as a safety and education tool on streets that have been previously identified as having problems with speeding drivers.
Second, I can understand your frustration about making sure drivers come to a complete stop at posted stop signs. I would suggest that you share your concerns directly with the City of Manhattan Beach Police Department. Since the City has its own police force, the County does not intervene on traffic or policing issues.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
What is the latest news on proposed golf course in Rancho Palos
Verdes/Rolling Hills?
The proposal for the South Coast Golf Course was actually stopped last April after development costs no longer made the project feasible.
Planning costs incurred to that point and further estimated costs to complete the project led to the developer deciding not to proceed with a proposed golf course project on the site of the former Palos Verdes Landfill Meritage Rolling Hills Golf, LLC and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation agreed that the option to continue the project would stop beyond the contract's expiration date of April 20, 2006.
Meritage had indicated to the Department that costs had grown substantially in order to successfully develop the site. As such, any increased costs would result in considerably higher green fees, making a round of golf at the course no longer affordable to a majority of the general public.
Even though this project did not work, I deeply appreciated the time and financial investment made by Meritage in its efforts to bring the project to reality in an area of the County starved for affordable, public golf courses.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I am very concerned about the plan to park buses at the South Coast Botanic Garden. As a neighbor to the garden I am worried it will lower my property value. Can you tell me when and where meetings are planned for this proposal?
Also, when will the fence be repaired on the north boundary of the garden? I had sent in a $400 donation for plants months ago, but was told nothing will be done until the fence is repaired.
Thank you for sharing your concerns about the South Coast Botanic Garden. I am always interested in making sure the Botanic Garden is a good neighbor to residents nearby, and hearing from residents like you is critical to making that happen.
Your question regarding the buses probably comes from the notices that were posted recently at the garden letting people know of an upcoming public hearing about the Palos Verdes Peninsula Transit Authority parking their buses at the garden at night. Please know this overnight parking at the garden has actually been going on for some time. PV Transit has been storing their buses at the garden overnight for the past year, but the buses are kept in the garden’s maintenance yard, out of sight of homes and residents. The use permit that allows PV Transit to pay for the overnight parking will expire soon, so the public hearing notices that are currently posted are for a new permit for similar parking next year. I have made it very clear that the new permit must maintain the current parking in the maintenance yard so the buses remain out of sight while parked there overnight.
The public hearing was originally scheduled to occur before the Board of Supervisors on January 23, but I’ve recently learned that the hearing will likely be pushed back several weeks. Once the new date is set, reposting of the hearing date will go up at the Botanic Garden. If you have additional concerns, you can come express them before the Board when the hearing occurs. You are welcome to contact my office to get the exact date once it is set.
As far as your concern about the fencing on the north boundary, I have seen some new photos of the fence and I agree that it is in great need of repair. Botanic Garden managers have told me that there are some immediate areas of concern that they will be fixing right away with in-stock materials. The rest of fence will also soon be repaired. The garden is currently acquiring construction bids from several vendors and then installation will begin. I have been assured that construction will be complete no later than the first week of March.
On a personal note, thank you for your generous donation for plants at the Garden. The staff is holding onto your donation for now until the fence construction is complete. Per your donation instructions, the money will only be used for plantings as a screen along the fence line. The plants purchased through your donation will be planted once the repair work is complete.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I work for a not-for-profit adult day care center and I heard your office sometimes gives non-profits the use of free bus rides. Is this true?
In answer to your question, yes, my office often does provide buses for non-profit organizations that serve the Fourth District. Any request for bus services needs to be faxed or mailed to the local field office. Since you’re from Redondo Beach, your local field office is located in Torrance. Here is the contact information for that office:
Fourth District Torrance Field Office
825 Maple Avenue
Torrance, CA 90503
Tel: (310) 222-3015
Fax: (310) 320-4058
Your letter needs to include the following information:
- Name of Organization
- Brief description of organization when requesting for the first time
- Nature or purpose of field trip (seniors, youth, community, etc)
- Date of Trip
- Number of people
- Pick up location and time
- Destination address and time to return to pick up location
- Contact information (including fax number)
If you have additional questions, you can contact the Torrance Field Office for help.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I heard this morning on the radio about a program you are sponsoring to better evaluate early childhood education schools and child care
centers. I have been interested in the need for such a program for many years. How can I sign up to volunteer to help in supporting this
much-needed activity?
It's great to hear of your interest in our new Steps to Excellence review and grading system for child care facilities across Los Angeles County. My hope is that through this program we will be able to improve the safety and performance of our local child care centers and empower parents with information about the facilities they are considering for their children.
The program is still very much in its infancy, beginning with a test-run pilot project in July 2007. The opportunities for involvement are very limited right now because we are still ramping up, but as we get closer to launch, we will be sure to let you know how you can volunteer.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
I would like to know what the difference is between living in an incorporated area of LA County vs. a city (e.g. are our property taxes less, do we receive additional services, are there any benefits?)
In County Government you have a Supervisor for the District who has Field Deputies who represent them in the various communities. The County Government is vast and has resources that enable it to provide a vast array of services for all residents of the county -- currently over 10 million residents. The County provides law enforcement, property assessment, tax collection, public health protection, public social services and relief to indigents. Some of the specialized services include flood control, water conservation, parks and recreation and many diversified cultural activities.
There are 88 cities within the County of LA, each with their own city councils. All of the cities, in varying degrees, contract with the County to provide municipal services. 37 contract for nearly all of their municipal services.
More than 65% of the County’s land area is unincorporated. For the 1 million people living in those areas, the Board of Supervisors serve as their "city council" and the County Departments provide the municipal services.
I hope this gives you some perspective on the differences from city to county.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Dear Supervisor Knabe:
My husband and I just lost our job right after Thanksgiving. Do you know of any programs that are helping families? Thank You!
The County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) is the best place for you to start since they provide public assistance to qualified families. A family’s eligibility for benefits is based on little or no income, employment status and children in the home who are under 18 years old.
According to your email, you reside in the City of Whittier, therefore, the DPSS Norwalk Workforce Services office located at 12727 Norwalk Blvd., Norwalk CA. 90650 is the office nearest to you. Should you have any questions regarding the application process for these programs, please contact the Norwalk office at (562) 807-7819.
To further assist you, I would also like to refer you to the Information and Referral Federation (INFO LINE), a non-profit agency funded by DPSS and the United Way of Los Angeles. The INFO LINE has access to numerous community resources that may be of value to you, such as assistance in locating low cost medical or dental assistance. INFO LINE has trained specialists who are on duty 24 hours a day, providing information and referrals to community health services, housing, emergency food, legal issues, transportation, and education. The INFO LINE can be reached by dialing “211”.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
Thank you for your question. Ask Don is a way for anyone who visits Knabe.com to directly connect with me about issues or questions they may have. I envision this as an ongoing public conversation about topics of interests to you and similarly of interest to residents across Los Angeles County.
I plan to post both your questions and my answers on this page so that others may see where I stand on the issues. If you have a question, I will get you the answer.
I hope you enjoy this new feature.
Sincerely,
DON KNABE
Supervisor, Fourth District
County of Los Angeles
822 Kenneth Hahn Hall of
Administration | 500 West Temple Street | Los Angeles, CA
90012
