Letter: Blocking sidewalks not a homeless issue

I frequently disagree with Lee Cataluna, but her Friday column on the double standard of blocking the public realm was spot on (“Sidewalk laws should be fair to all,” Star-Advertiser, Oct. 5).

For my part and living in Waikiki, I report violations, including furniture blocking sidewalks pre-bulky item pickup; homeless setting up residence in my neighborhood public spaces, bus stops and parks; and kiosks blocking public access.

I am an equal-opportunity complainant. Drivers would never permit couches and homeless tents blocking lanes in our streets. Why do we not provide the same dignity and respect for pedestrians and citizens in public spaces?

Sidewalks are our mode of transportation. Now that the City Council has acted, it is time to take back our public spaces, especially our sidewalks. This is not a homeless issue, so no more framing it in those terms. This is a public access, mobility, safety and public space-use issue.

Jeff Merz

Waikiki

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