HAPPY NEIGHBORS

Re "L.A. approves medical marijuana law," Jan. 27

Thank you to the nine members of the City Council who had the courage
to place restrictions on the out-of-control rise of "medical"
marijuana dispensaries. In the last year, no fewer than seven of these
dispensaries have cropped up within a two-block stretch of Ventura
Boulevard in the West Valley. Are there really enough sick people here
to warrant so many of these shops?

As the recent incident in Northridge demonstrates, these shops attract
violent criminals. We don't need this in our neighborhoods.

Of course there were more medical marijuana supporters at the City
Council's meeting than concerned citizens -- because these merchants
have a financial stake in the outcome. But rest assured that
homeowners, schools and places of worship are pleased that some
government controls will be placed on these businesses very soon.

A. Dawson

Los Angeles