Avoiding States of Disrepair : L.A. County Proposition A would keep parks green and happy

As the Los Angeles metropolitan area has grown by leaps, so too have the demands on parks, beaches, open land and other recreational areas. Too many of these are falling into a sad state of disrepair. Nowhere is the problem more acute than in the city, where too often neighborhood parks have become more hospitable to criminals than to children and their families.

Proposition A, on the Nov. 3 Los Angeles County ballot, could help rectify this unacceptable situation by providing $540 million to clean up deteriorating city parks and to maintain and upgrade facilities at regional parks, beaches, museums and zoos.

The measure, which needs only a simple majority to pass, would increase property taxes about $12 a year for the average Los Angeles County property owner over the next 22 years.

Though property tax hikes are unfortunate in an economic downturn, consider that the use of public recreational facilities increases when times are tough.

Proposition A could ensure that the facilities can handle increased use by giving them, in many cases, a simple face lift. These public resources would be cleaner, safer, more inviting.

The funds would also boost recreational programs for both young people and seniors. Outdoor enthusiasts would benefit from coastal cleanup programs and habitat restoration.

No wonder then that Proposition A was put on the ballot by a unanimous vote of the L.A. County Board of Supervisors and is supported by a diverse group of public leaders and organizations ranging from Los Angeles Police Chief Willie L. Williams and Sheriff Sherman Block to the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and environmental groups.

The Safe Neighborhood Parks Act has something for everyone. We urge a “yes” vote for Proposition A.