Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Olympics 2024 in Los Angeles? What About Those Busted Sidewalks and Retiree Pension Costs?

At IBD, "Olympics? L.A. Already Faces Herculean Budget Woes."

No, it's not the best idea.

See the letters to the editor at the Los Angeles Times, "L.A. can't fill all its potholes, but it wants the Olympics. That's insane":
To the editor: I don't live in Los Angeles anymore, but I still have an affinity for the city where I grew up, so I have to ask: Did anyone see the irony or humor in the juxtaposition of the headlines on Sunday's front page? ("Inequity is 'baked in' when it comes to L.A. city services; where you live matters," Aug. 28)

According to one article, the city will be on the hook for billions if it is selected to host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, but according to another piece, it can't consistently provide basic services. Graffiti removal can take days, depending on where you live. Potholes and trash may go unaddressed for weeks after a complaint.

This particular story does not even take into consideration the sidewalks, which are on a 30-year repair plan, and the water system, which breaks regularly. And all the billions to be spent on the Olympics are supposed to turn a profit of less than 3%. The mayor must have a very sharp pencil and a crystal ball. Good luck.

Steven L. Rice, Thousand Oaks


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