University Of Southern California School Of Urban And Regional Planning

The wisdom of the city's billion-dollar investment in downtown redevelopment, a crowning achievement of Mayor Tom Bradley's Administration, has been sharply challenged in a new report by USC researchers on local government's role in the slumping economy.

The wisdom of the city's billion-dollar investment in downtown redevelopment, a crowning achievement of Mayor Tom Bradley's Administration, has been sharply challenged in a new report by USC researchers on local government's role in the slumping economy.

Don't tell the City Council that appearances don't count. Take the matter of local roofs. What makes a handsome roof is causing a lot of talk among council members as they ponder the aesthetics of asphalt shingles. Should this sturdy--but some argue, charmless--roof covering be allowed to creep across more Cerritos neighborhoods, or should the line be drawn in favor of more majestic roofing materials? It's a thorny question for the council, encompassing issues of money, taste and safety.

Developer Jerald E. Andrews is preparing for a potentially devastating flood even if it is the fifth year of drought. Andrews has trucked in 28,000 cubic yards of dirt so he can raise his property on Firestone Boulevard in Downey as much as 3 1/2 feet before he builds a shopping center. The flood-control work will cost about $150,000, Andrews said. The developer is one of the first in the area to act to satisfy new flood regulations, which are scheduled to take effect next year.