PARKING VIOLATION

The debate over whether or not to install parking meters along SE Hawthorne is getting feisty: The main meter opponent, Hawthorne merchant John Chassaing, spent the week urging like-minded business owners and residents to head to a meeting on October 3, so they can convince the city to ditch the meter idea.

Chassaing's rallying cries spurred heated debate on the Hawthorne Boulevard Business Association (HBBA) email list, with anti-meter businesses and neighbors questioning the city's intent and logic.

"You have already made up your mind without even considering any 'facts' or relevant information," HBBA head Paul Neidergang cautioned the anti-meter crowd. He also defended himself from Chassaing's accusations of pushing for meters. "I would like to make it clear that I do not have an 'agenda' and that I am not a part of a conspiracy to put parking meters on Hawthorne." AMY JENNIGES

NONE OF YOUR BEESWAX

Beginning Monday, October 2, visitors to city hall will have to jump through a new hurdle in order to access their elected leaders—nosy security guards.

Historically, city hall has been wide open to the public, with door guards acting more as greeters than security. But, despite the fact that there hasn't been any hint of a problem, security is now being ramped up. Visitors can only enter through the SW 4th entrance, and when they arrive, they'll be asked to divulge their destination and agenda. SCOTT MOORE

CLARIFICATION

In an article last week on allegations by SEIU Local 49 that the Wackenhut security firm lets security guards take weapons qualifications tests multiple times ["To the Rescue?" News, Sept 21], Wackenhut Manager Ben Blair is quoted as saying, "No comment." Blair chose to elaborate this week, denying that their guards aren't adequately trained in weapons handling. SM