Another Disappearing Act?

July 10, 2005

Dear Editor:

Is it not passing strange that overseer of Santa Monica's homeless services, Julie Rusk, is taking a year sabbatical just as a new "Homeless Czar" is to appear... just as her knowledge of the service community is most needed? (“City Reorganizes Staff to Tackle Homelessness,” July 5, 2005)

In the Machiavellian world that is now City Hall, the social service industry and their supporters are just as keen on keeping their edge on the system as they are in helping their "clients."

The new czar has the potential to radically rearrange the furniture and that will not doubt tweak a few noses. Best this new czar find their own compass.

Many might remember Ms. Rusk's sudden "vacation" two summers ago when she was personally "shepherding" OPCC's quest to establish a new homeless facility at 1751 Cloverfield.

There are no coincidences. Ms Rusk penchant for disappearing when the status quo is about to be questioned should make Santa Monican's question just what the hell is going on.

Nancy Cook Smith
Santa Monica