Public records abuse in P.V.

Anonymous residents of Rancho Palos Verdes have demanded, through an attorney, that the city produce eleven years of public records — "all documents, communications, e-mail, memos, contracts and other writing and materials" relating to crime statistics, information technology, charitable donations by City Council candidates and budget proposals. "When I opened it I honestly sat back in my chair and wondered how in the world we would be prepared to respond," City Manager Caroline Lehr told the Daily Breeze. "It's just unlike anything I have ever seen." The lawyer for the requesters says they are concerned about spending by the city, but the public records request is likely to cost the city $20,000. "Why this cloak-and-dagger approach?" asked Mayor Doug Stern. "I consider this guerrilla warfare."