Info on Historical Preservation
I was sorry to learn that the oldest house in Montrose was recently demolished (Then and Now, June 7). I am writing to correct a possible error regarding historic resources and their protection. The caption stated that the house was “perfect Craftsman-style” but that “historical protections for the 105-year-old home would only have been possible with the cooperation of the developer.” I want to point out that owner consent is not required to designate a property as a historic landmark in unincorporated Los Angeles County, according to the Historic Preservation Ordinance of Sept. 1, 2015. Owner opposition triggers a public hearing, but the board of supervisors may still vote to designate. Of course, it is still possible to demolish a historic landmark, but there is a process that must be followed, and the benefits and costs carefully weighed. It is worth remembering that there are mechanisms in place to help preserve the county’s remaining historic resources.
Catherine Jurca
Verdugo Woodlands
Editor’s note: The City of Glendale requires owner cooperation to secure historic protections, but the County of Los Angeles does not.

Outlines Her Planned ‘Yes’ Vote
I plan to vote yes on the .75% sales tax increase to benefit Glendale residents and visitors. The background material for the Glendale City Council meeting of July 17 explains cities that already have local sales tax at the LA County set maximum of 10.25% do not pay into Measure H, yet benefit from it. Glendale businesses generated an estimated $10 million for Measure H in its first year. LA County allocated less than $300,000 to Glendale. It is highly likely the state, county, or a regional taxing entity will enact a .75% sales tax soon. The only way to retain control over what Glendale businesses generate is to vote in a city sales tax first.
Sales and transient occupancy taxes are paid by shoppers and vacationers who use services while here. I think that is fitting. Those who attended or watched video of the council meeting discussions know the current council is committed to using the anticipated $30 million yearly revenue for affordable housing if this measure passes in November.
Those who don’t think the city is spending current tax revenue wisely and don’t need this income should review the budget. Let the [Glendale] City Council members know what services you don’t want. Remember that employee salaries, pensions and other compensation are negotiated by bargaining unit representatives and cannot legally be changed unilaterally.
[My husband] Bill and I understand our ability to absorb this additional expense relatively painlessly is due in part to high quality public education through graduate school. We’re happy to give back and feel it’s patriotic to pay taxes. We invest some of our time attending public meetings and helping elected officials make their decisions. I urge everyone to do the same.
Sharon Weisman
Glendale