Officials Join Merchants in Urging Action on Eyesores

In response to repeated complaints from Olvera Street merchants, the Los Angeles City Council is seeking a solution to three deteriorating 19th century buildings that have become an eyesore.

On Tuesday, the council approved a motion asking the Board of Supervisors to take steps to repair or demolish the county-owned buildings, located across the street from Olvera Street.

“Some bums live in the abandoned buildings and because of a recent fire they are a little bit of an eyesore,” said Valerie Garcia, chairwoman of the Olvera Street Merchants advisory committee.

The city asked the county to secure the buildings, initiate cosmetic improvements and expedite their restoration. As a last resort, the city suggested that the buildings be destroyed.