SLO fines show governments’ ability to legally extort from citizens
Kudos to Norm Borin, who spoke up about visiting tourist Carey Webster’s over-the-top fine (to put it mildly) for having her dog off-leash at Laguna Lake (“SLO is more interested in fines, fees to pad city coffers,” Feb. 7).
Welcome to the “Happiest Place in America,” Carey: San Luis Obispo, where we fine people at will. Just to let you know, the company of SLO already has the corner on asking for infinite fees at will, just in case you ever intend to live here. Doubtful though, with your Happy SLO Experience. The situation was basically a crystal-clear example of SLO’s city/county governments’ ability to legally extort money from citizens.
Indeed, a simple ruse to “pad the coffers and hire needless personnel.” Mr. Borin couldn’t have hit the nail on the head more squarely.
Steve Christianson, Arroyo Grande
This story was originally published February 23, 2016 at 9:31 AM with the headline "SLO fines show governments’ ability to legally extort from citizens."