To the editor:

I have sat upon my typing fingers long enough. After reading the article and editorial about the abatement of the traffic-blocking plants along Harper Street where a boy was killed several weeks ago, I feel the need to comment.

Many years ago, when I worked with the Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department, it was my responsibility to send out notices about shrubs and trees that blocked safe entrances to intersections. I am reminded of a time in 1986 when I sent a notice about a blocked intersection at 19th and Alabama streets. A city official, in response to a complaint from the property owner, ordered me to stand down on enforcing the ordinance.

As far as I know, no one was killed or injured at that site, but an ordinance is law and must be applied impartially. It is no surprise to me that the plants were not promptly pruned on Harper. But I think that the removal of an intersection obstruction, as spelled out in a city ordinance, should be observed with the same expediency and impartiality as is the speed limit on West Sixth Street.

George C. Osborne,

Lawrence