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La Habra Heights, CA -
From the "Only in the Heights" File: Man claims
City of La Habra Heights stole his bridge. Files complaint with Sheriff's
Department.
A La Habra Heights resident living on El Travesa, next to the City's only
park and horse arena, claims the City stole his bridge. The theft took
place between Wednesday night and Friday morning. Looking to file a police
report on the theft, Frank Maganzini called the Sheriff's Department and
was told by the responding deputy that she knew who took the bridge.
However, the deputy would not disclose the location of where the bridge
was moved to.
The bridge stood for over 27 years and is among a handful that residents
use to gain access via foot or horseback to "The Park" and reportedly also
used to aid in animal evacuation. In these
'not-so-resident-friendly' times, the City asked that the bridge be
removed. When the owner refused, the City charged Mr. Maganzini with
violating the municipal code. Maganzini filed an appeal with the county
court but lost the appeal in May. Observers cite his lack of legal
representation as the key reason for the denial.
Ironically, the City Council on Thursday night asked City Staff to place
an item on the agenda to possibly change the municipal code exempting
these bridges. Council members cite safety concerns for horse riders and
pedestrians who can use these foot bridges and avoid using dangerous City
streets. The bridges span over a 7 foot concrete ditch and their legality
and ownership have long been under dispute. Mr. Maganzini vows to rebuild
his bridge. Meanwhile the whereabouts of the missing bridge remains a
mystery.
Story by: George Edwardz
EOM
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