Forum letters: Gov. Newsom’s compromise on water is a good thing for California

Water needs compromise

“Newsom seeks peace with Trump in California water wars. Enviros are ready to fight” (sacbee.com, Feb. 5):

Your article about Gov. Newsom’s effort to secure Voluntary Agreements on water hit the nail on the head: “Broadly, the proposal Newsom outlined this week has something for each side.” That’s exactly the point – all sides come to the table, make an agreement and move forward together. This approach takes California out of the endless cycle of lawsuits, which has been a hallmark of the regulatory approach. As proposed, these agreements would set aside additional water for the environment, provide greater reliability to residents, businesses and farms and in a historic first, farms and water districts will tax themselves in order to fund environmental projects. This holistic approach, based on the latest science, would be better for the environment as well as all California water users. There’s still work to be done, but I applaud the governor’s efforts and look forward to working toward securing California’s water future.

Mike Wade,

Sacramento

Port-a-potties aren’t a problem

“Sacramento officials say private port-a-potties left for homeless could cause ‘chaos’” (sacbee.com, Feb. 6):

Homelessness is the number one concern of our community. The environment is of equal concern. Two generous, humanitarian women have paid to provide a port-a-potty for homeless women, children and disabled persons. The response of our mayor? Sue them! The rationale? If not prosecuted, private citizens will place other items on city property. So now, the city and Mark Merin, who is representing Janice Nakashima and Robin Kristufek, will spend large amounts of money and public resources to address this case. While we may not be able to provide housing for our poor citizens, can the city not provide port-a-potties? I suggest the mayor honor these two women for their leadership, help them easily acquire needed permits and follow their example. Provide privacy and reasonable hygiene for our homeless and prevent human waste from contaminating our environment. It’s the least we can do.

Carol Voyles,

Sacramento

Don’t ignore Bernie

“Bernie Sanders is the Sally Field of Democrats” (The Sacramento Bee, Section 10A, Jan. 30):

The Democratic establishment is making the same mistake as in 2016 by ignoring polling results showing a high approval rate of Bernie Sanders among the rank-and-file Democrats. By ignoring the fact that polls suggest he is the most popular democratic candidate in the field, the establishment is setting the stage for another Trump win in 2020.

Samira Al-Qazzaz,

Carmichael

Enough is enough

“Trump acquitted” (The Sacramento Bee, Section 1A, Feb. 6):

When is enough, enough? When will the Republicans stop being complicit in the systematic destruction of norms to our country? When will they take their oath to our Constitution seriously? Trump’s acquittal in the sham Senate trial has empowered him to be even more emboldened. He now, with the GOP’s blessing, believes he has absolute power. He has autocratic tendencies. He is unstable, erratic, petty and vindictive,as seen with his reassigning of Lt. Col. Vindman, a true patriot who has served our country with honor and integrity. How long will the Republicans allow him to continue to desecrate the office of the presidency? How long will they continue to support his lies and gaslighting to the public? How long with they allow such a corrupt and dangerous man to represent our once great nation? Our country cannot take more of this.

Jennifer Ross,

Rocklin

‘Live Rescue’ connects us to first responders

“‘Live Rescue’ exploits tragedy, violates privacy. Sacramento City Council must reject it” (sacbee.com, Feb. 4):

I read this article with a great deal of dismay. “Live Rescue” is an excellent way for those who have never had need for first responders to learn how they operate. I wonder how many complanaints have watched any shows like “Live Rescue”, “Cops”, or “Live P.D.” Watching has given me an even deeper appreciation of all that law enforcement and fire department personnel have to endure. Their compassion is truly inspiring! Most of us have never and will never go on a ride-along with a police officer or ride in an ambulance with EMTs. These programs are the closest one can get to understanding what all of that entails. I am thankful for all first responders!

Myrna Armstrong,

Sacramento

Why Virginia, Nunes?

“Can Devin Nunes sue California publisher in Virginia? Judge wants to know more from McClatchy” (sacbee.com, Feb. 12):

Devin Nunes is an elected official in California. Only California voters can vote for him. He has filed seven civil lawsuits, one in the State of Virginia, alleging he was defamed by an accurately reported story in the Fresno Bee. Why is the suit filed in Virginia? McClatchy does not publish or directly sell newspapers there. Virginia residents don’t vote for him. He is forum shopping to harass the newspaper. His seven suits seek to intimidate anyone speaking unfavorably about his positions. Such assaults on the First Amendment right to free press and free speech should not be tolerated by anyone, whether Democrat or Republican or otherwise. Would he get the message that such tactics will not be tolerated if people throughout California, not just in his district, made token donations of say $20 to the campaign of a candidate seeking to unseat him, irrespective of party affiliation?

William Schmidt,

Wilton

This story was originally published February 18, 2020 at 2:50 PM.