How we deal with problems in LA:

1. A problem occurs.

2. Problem’s existence is denied.

3. Acknowledgement that problem does, in fact, exist, but talking about it publicly will run off: a) businesses b) tourists c) residents.

4. A solution is offered.

5. Solution rejected because of one or more of the following: a) people don’t/won’t like it b) person offering not elected or appointed to anything c) it will offend one group or the other d) it won’t pass e) it won’t work f) person offering isn’t one of us g) person offering doesn’t live in______ h) it will make us look bad because people will know we have problem i) it’s too simplistic j) nobody knows if it will work.

6. Form a blue-ribbon commission/committee/task force or form foundation or non-profit organization and hire out of state consultants.

7. Problem escalates. City/state continues to decline.

8. Mea Culpa to the idea proposer. We should have listened, but its too late now. Where are they when we really need them?

9. Hold elections and reelect the same public officials who failed to solve the problem.

10. A problem occurs

11. Repeat steps 2 through 9.

Yeah, I know. I’m over-thinking the problem, but it was a slow day because of all the problems that exist in our state.

C.B.