Last night locals in Venice gathered to discuss fence and hedge heights, a controversial issue since some folks believe taller fences provide much-needed privacy, while others fear high fences breed exclusivity. This being Venice, topics of sex offenders, crack pipes, and sunbathers all made it into the discussion. A reader gives us a report: "I attend the meeting to discuss the fences and hedges issue last night. Overwhelming turnout and 98% passionately against the existing ordinance that limits fence height to 42 inches. One lady said she wanted higher fences because she once saw a guy "jerking off right in front of her house."
"I've never seen such a turnout at Westminster and people were sitting on the stage because there were so few chairs unoccupied...the Council announced that this would be a hearing and that the actual voting would take place in February.
In deference to the people who were for fence height restrictions, the three or four folks who like low fences were given an opportunity to speak and they voiced the usual concerns about having an open free feeling to the neighborhood. Low fences promote less crime was another contention, which apparently may not necessarily be true, depending on which policeman or fireman you happen to poll. And preventing the "alleyway effect" on walkstreets.
Among other views for higher fences were:
- For the protection of our little moppets against the eight registered sex offenders in Venice.
Two mothers brought their little kiddies along to help promote their views.
- To prevent vicious dogs from leaping the little fences.
- To prevent intrusive behavior from the local deviants while sunbathing in your front yard.
- To protect property values.
-To prevent items like crack pipes, condoms and unidentified nasty stuff from being left behind on your property by aforementioned deviants.
Also discussed was whether the Council had the right to impose fines.
Another big gripe was that the council drew up these enforcement proposals without consulting with the people of the area."
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