Are tree rules a double standard?
On page 4 of the Jan. 31 issue, there is an article about increased costs and regulations for tree removals by residents. Right opposite that is an article about the March 2023 storms and hazardous tree removals by the city. Did the trees removed by the city have to be replaced like is required by residents? If not, that’s a double standard. By implementing such strict requirements for removal, the city is making it difficult for residents to have a safe environment. The new requirements are surprising considering how many trees fell in Los Altos during the storm and caused damage. I would think the city would want to make it easier for residents to remove potentially hazardous trees.
Theresa Smith
Los Altos
Elections matter for reproductive freedom
In a 1986 speech, President Ronald Reagan said, “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government and I’m here to help.” Reagan’s statement reflected the conservative ideology at the time, which emphasized limited government, intervention in the economy and individual lives.
In 2023, our ultra-conservative Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, a 50-year, precedent-setting law protecting reproductive healthcare for women.
On Monday, I attended Vice President Kamala Harris’s Fight for Reproductive Freedom.
Now I am convinced the most terrifying words are “I’m from the government and I’m here to dictate to women what healthcare you are allowed to receive and to take control of your body.”
The 2024 elections will be a fight for women’s rights, to protect our very “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Elections matter. Use your vote to support women’s rights, voting rights and candidates that support our democracy.
Linda Swan
Los Altos Hills
