June 2002 -- Citizens of the Hansen Dam area stop the Army Corps of Engineers and the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks from destroying the beloved Hansen Dam Lakes. This powerful community effort gives birth to both the Hansen Dam Lakes Coalition and to the broader-scoped Tujunga Watershed Stakeholders and its advisory group, the Tujunga Watershed Council. Stopping the further destruction of the lakes is one thing... Getting the Corps to clean out what they illegally dumped is something else. That battle could take years. But we are nothing if not persistent! To learn the full story, go to Hot Topics. |
| "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead |
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| June 1, 2003 Watershed Tour |
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May 2003 - "The Bluffs" will hopefully stay Bluffs Regarding the parcel across the street of the future Children’s Museum at Hansen Dam, it was within days of being bulldozed and becoming a High-density apartment complex. That was recently averted by a series of discussions with Councilman Padilla’s Office. Opposing this project were various citizen’s groups and neighborhood crimewatch organizations of Lake View Terrace, which banded together and formed a powerful alliance. A speech at City Hall, letters from citizens, attendance of Planning Commission Hearings, a vision and alternative plan by local citizens were some of the key elements that crafted this team together. With compelling concerns ranging from flood control, traffic hazards and soil stability, Councilman’s Alex Padilla’s office was very cooperative and attentive to this matter. All parties agreed to the compelling logic for the best use of this land in a safe, environmental manner and to preserve it for future generations. Council District Seven is now negotiating the purchase of this land from the developers to using a portion of the Lopez Landfill Fund as a deposit. The rest of the money for purchasing would be utilized by various state funds. The property would be given to the Rec & Parks.... Ideally the same community members who had the vision to spirit this fight will have a voice in the planning of this land with Recreation and Parks. |
Above right: Photos (by Jerry Piro) from the June 1 watershed tour (click to enlarge). Story will be posted soon. See June 2 Daily News for an article about the tour & Tujunga Watershed Stakeholders |
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