Even with the rain, the Westside Shelter continues to be less than full (though accurate statistics are impossible for the residents of Venice to obtain)…yet in the parking lot by my home, the party continues. This morning there was this:

How is this possible? How is it that development of all kinds – sensible or otherwise, is met with the strictest of scrutiny but a group of criminal 20-somethings with pit bulls and guitars can build a lean-to that will stick around (almost certainly) for days? This is leaned up against the wall that separates the lot from MY HOME.

This violates both of the lawsuits the city continually sites as reasons they can’t help Venice. This violates so many more laws than just Jones and Lavan as well. This is against the law in every part of the city (and is terrifying to me – who or what is inside there?).

THIS IS ABSOLUTE PROOF THAT THERE IS ZERO INCENTIVE TO LEAVE VENICE. NOTHING IS ENFORCED AND NOTHING IS CHANGING.

Mike et al: WE MUST BEGIN TO SEE CHANGE IMMEDIATELY. IF ANYTHING, THINGS CONTINUE TO GET WORSE IN VENICE.

Again, I PLEAD for my family and neighbors: HELP VENICE.

From Officer Theresa Skinner
Good Morning Kip,
I will send a beach unit over to take a look and see if someone is there. In the meantime, have you spoken with the owners of the lot to see if they can assist in removing the debris that is left behind.