Good Idea! wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:05 PM:Mission Ave and Quince St is a horrible place! I try to get my coffee at starbucks in the morning and these "laborers" are blocking the driveways, standing in the sidewalk blocking view of road traffic, etc. they are a nuisance, danger for drivers, and deterrant to legitimate businesses. Good idea!

this is.. wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:14 PM:great news. I hate driving down Quince. It is very intimidating when they are all standing around staring at you when you drive past! Clean it up!!! Makes that area look bad. Get the van and get them out of here.

This is wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:21 PM:Racism.

fedup wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:26 PM:I agree! My wife and daughters hate to go to Starbucks because of the stares, etc that the day laborers that hang out there give all ladies. How many of these guys are ILLEGAL ALIENS?? where is the BP and ICE?

fedup wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:27 PM:to "this is Racism" at 12:21.....how so? i don't see anything racist about "day laborer"

John Q. Citizen wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:33 PM:A friend of mine was always getting solicited for sex when she would have to walk past the men to catch the bus. A lot of creeps hanging around there. Sounds like a good place to send an undercover into.

Bruce wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:36 PM:Racism: Prejudice or discrimination based on an individual's race; can be expressed individually or through institutional policies or practices. Racism is a system of oppression - Illegal Alien: Also known as an "Undocumented Alien," is an alien who has entered the United States illegally and is deportable if apprehended- Just wanted to let "This is" know what the difference was by definition.....He (she) seems to be a product of California's public education system.....

Go get 'em wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:39 PM:council. That area is terrible and needs to be cleaned up. The Lowes, Starbucks etc was a step in the right direction. Keep it up and run them out!

Crime Center wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:48 PM:I have personally witnessed a DL attack and rob a driver stopped at the light there because he wouldn't hire him. The DL grabbed his cell phone and ran...

I don't get it wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:50 PM:Racism? Where? Man, that's funny!! Nice try. I wish I can give you credit for that one, but the racism card has been over played on this subject about day laborers and ILLEGAL ALIENS way too much. Good for you Escondido. Round 'em up and send them away!!!!

Saul wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:10 PM:It has gotten to the point where the day laborers and illegals period have more rights then the legal citizens. Someone has got to start cleaning up our streets. Escondido, I applaud your efforts.

To "This is" wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:12 PM:I am sure you would not find this racist if it were about a group of whites gathering here everyday making a nusiance of themselves.

Hopefully, wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:13 PM:the ordinance will also stop those annoying sign twirlers that park themselves on corners and basically block your view for a safe right hand turn. The newspaper guys who camp on the center median should also be told to leave. The city of Orange's ordinance covers them, hopefully Escondido will do the same. It sure would counter any challenges about racism. Not sure what the worry is though. For every 5 latino laborers I see, there are at least 2 pacific islanders, a japanese, and an eskimo! Go figure...

More of the same wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:13 PM:This is just another attempt by neo-nazis Gallo, Abed and Waldron to stir up their "base" - namely the rednecks in this town that love to blame illegals for everything that goes wrong here. Sure, something needs to be done about illegal immigration, but those of you who voted for Bush have no one to blame but yourselves. He's a spineless puppet in bed with business, and that's really the root of the problem. Enforce existing laws and the jobs dry up instantly. But it's a FEDERAL ISSUE, and thus anything the ... Esco council do is nothing more than political window dressing.

Huh? wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:24 PM:How in the world do these innocent men harrass motorists and harm businesses? If that's so, then do something about Escondido's WHITE trash problem.

leigh wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:31 PM:I think its great that they are trying to keep these illegals from doing this.Im sure it will be shot down by the liberal judges we have.Why isnt the government doing there job and deporting these people.

Get your elected official to propose this legislation wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:33 PM:The State of Oklahoma passed a LAW that illegal immigration is causing economic hardship and lawlessness in their state and that illegal immigration is encouraged by public agencies within this state that provide public benefits without verifying immigration status. The State of Oklahoma further finds that illegal immigrants have been harbored and sheltered in this state and encouraged to reside in their state through the issuance of identification cards that are issued without verifying immigration status, and that these practices impede and obstruct the enforcement of federal immigration law, undermine the security of our borders, and impermissibly restrict the privileges and immunities of the citizens of Oklahoma. Therefore, the people of the State of Oklahoma declare that it is a compelling public interest of this state to discourage illegal immigration by requiring all agencies within this state to fully cooperate with federal immigration authorities in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The State of Oklahoma also finds that other measures are necessary to ensure the integrity of various governmental programs and services. I agree with "I don't get it" 12:50pm --Round 'em up and send them away!

Bill wrote on Dec 6, 2007 1:41 PM:Don't they have a LOITERRING ordinance in Escondido. Just start isuing citations and they'll move out of there real fast.

Concerned-1 wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:01 PM:If our idiot government would do their job, cities wouldn't have to take such measures. Legal day laborers should have a place to do business. Illegal day laborers should be rounded up and shipped out by federal authorities. Criminals and criminal activity is a police problem. This action by the council is sure to get the ACLU out from under its rock. I'd like to see some documentation as to how bad it is. Edward Sifuentes should do a story on it. Maybe not.

Other cities..... wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:31 PM:have responded to similar problems. I suggest Councilperson Gallo reference the statutes of Berlin circa 1930's and those of Moscow anytime during the Stalin era. Escondido will be interesting company.

it is very dangerous wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:32 PM:I drive down Quence every day. I have almost hit these people if a person stops to pick someone up. They all come running right out in front of you. I have complained to the city. It is about time something is done.

Lame Argument wrote on Dec 6, 2007 2:34 PM:Nobody wants to be called a racist, which is why supporters of open borders and blanket amnesty call anyone who opposes their goals a racist. In reality, those who are loyal to race before country are the true racists. We are all Americans, and America will not survive without borders and equitable enforcement of laws, including those related to employment eligibility, taxation, identity theft, and even loitering. There should be no free passes for anyone, regardless of how powerful ethnocentric lobbying organizations have become. Illegal immigration: no border, no order, no nation.

Daren wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:19 PM:Day laborors and criminal illegals are not a race, therefore any claims of racism are ignorant and incorrect. This kind of policy needs to be adopted in every city across the USA.

Fidel wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:26 PM:Is there another California city where such a law has been in force for a period of time that can be copied? Hopefully tested in court already. If there is then do it.

Where are all the comments? wrote on Dec 6, 2007 3:36 PM:Only nine comments on this article? Come on screeners, please post them.

I know the corner wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:05 PM:very well, I always keep my hand on my knife when I must walk past there.

My friend is black wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:05 PM:and she is always getting racist comments from the day labors.

If there is no work wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:09 PM:for day labors they will move to a different city. Case in point the construction trade is getting jumpy with the CSLB, District Attorneys and others going plain clothes to catch unlicensed contractors that the illegals are starting to complain about no work here in Escondido. Adios Amigos, maybe Vista?

Clean it up! wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:26 PM:It makes those who are unfornate to have to stay at Inter-Faith down the corner look bad.

Let me get this wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:39 PM:straight the day labors are independent contractors, how come they don't need a business license? Every independent contractor I have know always had to have a business license.

Karl wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:46 PM:Nice try "Hopefully", talking about and end run. You should be ashamed of yourself for this end run around justice. I totally agree with you that "sign spinners" should be targeted also. Let's get all the "advertisers" off the streets. wouldn't you agree "Hopefully? Or was your point only to justify illegals pandering to the public by bringing up another offender?

Karl wrote on Dec 6, 2007 4:49 PM:"Huh". We have a "White Trash Problem" in Escondido? Who would have thunk? So because we have a "White Trash Problem" anyone can act uncivil to others? I question your motives.

Hopefully wrote on Dec 6, 2007 5:38 PM:No, I am sincere about the sign twirlers, and I certainly understand all the frustrations that go with illegal immigration, but I find it disingenuous when some claim that using "day laborer" is not racist since only latinos are day laborers. I'm not suggesting that this boils down to race - it's far more complex than that - I was just making a tounge in cheek comment.

unsolicited advice wrote on Dec 6, 2007 5:38 PM:Escondido Council Members do like you did with the on-street parking restrictions. Find another city's ordinance that has effectively done what you want to do and use the exact same language. Maybe Menlo Park or Pasadena have examples that you can copy. Don't sail off the edge. Find a vagrant, soliciting, loitering, nuisance etc type law that will accomplish what you want to do that has been court tested. You did it once. Do it again.

Those people.... wrote on Dec 6, 2007 5:52 PM:are always standing around out there. You know they are plotting horrible crimes, worshipping the devil and spitting on the sidewalk. Its the greatest injustice in the history of the world. Let's change the entire fabric of society to address this problem.

TO ALL YOU IGNORANT PEOPLE wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:16 PM:ALL YOU SHOULD BE THANKFULL THAT THEY AREN'T GOING INTO YOUR HOUSE AND STEALING FROM YOU THERE ACTUALLY TRYING TO EARN SOME MONEY THE RIGHT WAY NOT LIKE THE HOMELESS THAT ARE AMERICAN CITIZENS AND ARE STILL IN THE CORNER BEGGING FOR MONEY BECAUSE THERE TO LAZY TO EVEN LOOK FOR A JOB. IF ONLY THE GOVERNMENT WOULD HELP THE INNOCENT "MEXICANS"GIVE THEM A JOB THEY WOULDN'T BE STANDING OUT THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE,AND NO WERE NOT GOING ANYWAY BUT AROUND THE CORNER HERE IN THE USA!

Ben wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:22 PM:It's high time something was done about the illegal aliens, who are breaking into america, robbing people's identities, and stealing american jobs. I'm tired of hearing hispanic activists cry racism, when they are the real racists, supporting people who have no respect for american and it's laws, because they are also hispanic! All illegal aliens are criminals, and should be arrested, jailed, and deported!

Bobby wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:37 PM:It is the height of irresponsibility for city, state, or federal officials, to allow day laborers to congregate in front of businessess, when it so adversely affects the sales of those businesses. Allowing a businessesman who is a citizen and pays taxes to possibly go OUT OF BUSINESS because we wouldn't want to affect the prospects of illegal aliens and the law breaking Americans who hire them. People are simply not thinking on this issue. Souldn't Americans concerns come first?

Skip wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:45 PM:Posts are being allowed here. Why are posts not being allowed on the [alleged] Couple Bird Thieves Story. http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/12/06/news/inland/escondido/20_46_5612_5_07.txt [Editor's note: Per policy, "No comments that aren't relevant to the story." The bird theft story makes no mention of the suspects' immigration status.]

Robert24 wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:47 PM:Loitering, working without a license, failure to pay taxes, solicitation, illegal alien, whatever; it doesn't matter what flavor the crime, it's all the same. Round 'em up, move 'em out! Great job City Council!!!

Ted wrote on Dec 6, 2007 7:14 PM:We need to shut down these sites. One effective way would be to move the sites to in front of the schools, businesses, and homes of the people who hire them. When they see the danger it brings to their kids, employees, and family they will see the light of what their actions are causing. Don't take my word for it, drive over and look at the area. Build de-fence and deport them.

levotb wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:08 PM:How about the SDPD simply ENFORCING THE LAW?! Go thru McGinogle Canyon and arrest all illegal aliens there. There's child prostitution going on there, children being rapes and "sold"! Let's get real about the scumbags we're dealing with, here!

City Hall wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:14 PM:I agree, the pick up spot should not be in front of business's but should be at City Hall. They have plenty of room and a drive through area that would be a great location and could easily patrolled if someone stares improperly in a scary way. City Hall is prefect. It should be advertised as the location people can go to get labor help. It would benefit all.

Skip wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:20 PM:You folks would be more reasonable if you just admitted you were racist.

Norm wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:29 PM:Here we go again, another ridiculous idea Gallo hasn't come up with & will try to force down our throats.

To Skip wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:31 PM:You are so insightful. Yes, everybody who advocates enforcing the law is a racist.

Skip wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:39 PM:Flattery will get you everwhere

To Norm wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:40 PM:Being proactive and trying to reverse blight in the community is totally "ridiculous." Let's just put our heads in the sand, form a drum circle, and watch our neighborhoods descend into cesspools.

You're Being Duped wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:56 PM:All of you who are so thrilled with this need to understand what is really happening. Ed Gallo is and has been one of the most ineffectual City Council members in years and has in fact caused this city great harm. Knowing that he is up for re-election and knowing he has nothing but a record of failure he is trying to use the Marie Waldron method of politics by playing the illegal immigration issue as a campaign stepping stone and diverting your attention away from his shameful record. Don't believe me? Take some time and list all the positive things Mr. Gallo has done since he has been in office. Don't worry if you don't have much time, about two seconds is all you will need. Don't be duped by this political posturing.

"This is" wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:11 PM:You still don't get it....these people crossed our borders illegally and are now criminals.

ACL You wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:17 PM:Pandering racist politicians have short memories. They get so worked up they don't care if their ordinances are legal or not. More money for the ACLU!

To "This is" wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:29 PM:You are the one that doesn't get it. Not all day laborer's are here illegally! They are not all criminals!! That is why this smells of racism. Because it is! Just because they are Mexican, does not make them illegal criminals! They are legal workers looking for work.

SM Kid wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:35 PM:I like to be able to pick up extra labor for yardwork and odd jobs at cheap prices when I need it. I only wish there was a good place that I could find good domestic help too. Why should I pay employment taxes for some legal employee when the president does nothing but waste it on bungled wars over oil and propping up his fat cat corporate buddies.

Juan wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:49 PM:They are loiterers, many of whom are Mexican illegal immigrants, and are disruptive to surrounding business activity and to law-abiding citizens who wish to patronize those business without being harassed. Facts are facts. Doesn't matter if they're white, black or purple. They are a nuisance and should be removed.

Ed Gallo for Mayor! wrote on Dec 6, 2007 10:28 PM:Thank you Ed for having the courage to clean up our city. The alien activists will attack you hard because they love their illegals and slave labor. Stand strong, Escondido supports you, Marie, Sam, and Dick. You are doing the right thing for the citizens.

jean wrote on Dec 6, 2007 10:46 PM:There use to be loitering laws years ago that somehow aren't an issue anymore are they? Hmmmm.... Good for Ed Gallo for being brave enough to stand up and take care of the city.

Ed Gallo deserves a medal! wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:08 PM:The Escondido city coundil never lost their cojones. Just when EL GRUPO thought they had won. Ed Gallo comes up with this brilliant ordinance. I for one, will support it.

Bobby wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:36 PM:skip, whether or not your a business owner who is racist, you will still go OUT OF BUSINESS, if customers avoid your store because they don't feel like walking past groups of men,many of whom engage in catcalls, and other weird stuff. Get real.

Night Shift wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:07 AM:I see nothing racist about the councilman not wanting to see his community resemble a Third World city such as Tijuana where peddling and begging on the streets are acceptable practices. Of course advocates of illegal immigration and the exploiters of cheap labor will stand in his way.

Mack wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:21 AM:I think they should have to fill out a FM3 like any american would have to do in order to work or run a business in Mexico.

I thought that wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:26 AM:loitering of any kind was against the law. Enforce the laws on the books. We don't need a new ordinance.

esteban wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:45 AM:if this ban passes I hope it will stop those bright yellow fireman with their boots looking for hand outs. I also hope it gets ride of all those sign twirlers and snooty nosed kids yelling car wash, oh ya and don't forget i hate newspaper hawkers too. All these sorts of people are a distraction.

Pete wrote on Dec 7, 2007 6:24 AM: Day laborer - define that for me please. If you are trying to say illegal aliens say it don't beat about the bush trying to hide something - be a good journalist - get it right - and remember, accuracy, accuracy, accuracy. If you are trying to hoodwink the public you move yourself into another category - that of a crooked journalist who is playing politics with the truth. Accuracy, accuracy - oh you know.

helpmeunderstand wrote on Dec 7, 2007 6:26 AM:Blair-Loy really cuts to the chase with his words, "lots of people sell things on the streets." Yes, and they used to need business licenses, tax numbers, etc. so the IRS got its cut. Many gangsters have been sent to jail for tax evasion, but I guess there is a privileged class that is protected by the IRS instead. There's kind of a bad smell to that. I'll bet if Blair-Loy owned a business and I set up a business on the sidewalk out in front, he'd want to see my licenses and if I did not have any I'd get stepped on hard. And if this is an exclusively Latino practice--standing on a corner for work--then it is racist. We need all races standing on corners soliciting for work, no legal Social Security number required, govt. sanctioned tax evasion for all. That's when it won't be racist. And that's what anarchy is all about.

I must admit wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:10 AM:I have stopped going to the Staarbucks mentioned and my children don't eat at Carl's Jr. nor Jack in the Box across the street. Running the customers away? You bet they are!

Blake wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:20 AM:Let me quote a song, "You can't be a pimp and a prostitute too." You same people who want restrictions are the same folks who hire these laborers to do things your too lazy to do yourselves. Hypocrisy at it finest.

Lets do as wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:25 AM:our racist neighbors to the south do. Close our southern border and man it with armed soliders with assulat weapons. No driver's license period unless they have the proper passport and visa. Give our police the authority to stop anyone, anywhere and anytime and demand to see papers, no papers deport them immediately. Racist Mexico has many good ideas we need to copy.

I Could Go On & On wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:31 AM:I could go on & on regarding the illegals, we've all heard it. I'm a woman who drives a truck on Quince daily and I don't feel safe having these guys constantly trying to flag me down. You go City Council, oh, and Lori, why are you so wimpy when any issue about illegals arise? We need a stronger Mayor!

Ray wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:42 AM:Just imagine if this were caucasian looking people waiting for the labor.......just imagine.

Gallo is unprofessional!! wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:52 AM:Gallo is obviously doing this to appease his anger and hatred of the Latino community. In his comments to the NCT his unprofessionalism is what stands out to me. He uses the term "crap" is this guy serious. I believe this is political posturing just like Marie Waldron did with the rental ban proposal(which was done right before election time). Interesting though that Mayor Pfeiler who opposed was re-elected perhaps Gallo should consider changing his tactic. I am also glad that he specifically mentioned Starbucks was a business who complained. I guess they don't realize that the Latino community makes up almost 50% of the population in Escondido and almost every other city in San Diego and North County. You know the old saying which applies to Gallo, Waldron, Abed, and Starbucks; don't bite the hand that feeds you.

to Jean@10:46pm wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:56 AM:Yes, there used to be loitering laws and they were declared unconstitutional. That's why we have the judicial branch, to make sure people don't get all worked up about something and pass laws that deprive basic constitutional rights.

Former Escondido resident wrote on Dec 7, 2007 8:12 AM:I used to live in Escondido and I loved it there. But the "day laborer" problem has been out of control for years and years. We are probably at critical mass where there's no hope. Unless we pay attention NOW and help groups like Minutemen and Grassfire and keep pressure on the buffoons that are our government, we are doomed to lose our country and become a third world country (at least in southern CA). My parents came to visit me 15 years ago in Escondido and my mother asked "Where do you live,...?" What gets me is these illegals come here to make a better life for themselves, and then screw up this country just like their own. I'm for legal immigration. I'm deadset against illegal. I don't care if you are PLAID. If you are here illegally GO HOME and fix your own country....

NOT RACISM wrote on Dec 7, 2007 8:57 AM:This is not Racism! This is about Loitering. If you had a whole bunch of homeless people loitering in front of your house because they could get free food or whatever from cars driving by would you call someone to help clean up the front of your house?

No new law required wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:08 AM:Quince Street from 9th Avenue all the way to Mission Avenue is a "Collector" classified street. Mission Avenue all the way from Rose Street to Nordahl Road is already classified either "Collector" or "Major Road." Escondido's Circulation Policy D4.4 already addresses this issue. About "Collector" and "Major Roads" it says, "In no instance shall required parking be provided on street." The simple answer is to paint all the curbs red, put up no parking, no stopping signs and ticket anyone who parks or stops their vehicle. The employers and then the day laborers will soon disappear. The solution is easy, just direction to staff from the council majority. This action should not be controversial, after all, its been in the General plan for decades.

I PRAY they do this. wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:34 AM:I almost rear ended a man on Washington who had stopped to pick up day laborers at Quince. I was so excited when they put in a Starbucks drive through at Quince and Washington but I can't go in there the men hanging out blocking the driveway and they run up to your car. It is scary... it is dangerous and it is ILLEGAL.

esteban wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:45 AM:To "I Pray they do this" If you almost re ended some one it would have been because you where following to close or not paying attention to what was going on in front of you. maybe you should take a refresher course on driving.

To not racism wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:54 AM:No sir, if I had homeless people in my front yard asking for food or help I would give them help and or food. Not all people are void of compassion. We have certainly become a self-centered nation. We were provided with the best example of compassion with the story of the Good Samaritan. We need to be kind and help others so when we need help we will have someone reach out to us. You know what goes around comes around.

NCT parking lot is a great spot! wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:01 AM:Hey NCT, how about letting the men gather in your parking lot? Problem solved!!You don't have very many customers that come to your offices so it shouldn't be a problem and your writers will get to know many of the loiters. It will work for all!!

To To not Racism wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:07 AM:Cool man, let me know when you serve dinner and I will send some homeless and day labors your way!

Mateo wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:16 AM:The Quince and Washington area dangerous. The laborers congregate into small mobs when a potential "employer" arrives. Go see for yourself this weekend. ANSWER TO PROBLEMS: The workers are going to be here. Get them identifications (guest workers), private sector needs to compete with office front locations to get them hired (capitalism). Those same offices would be wise to offer English lesson and USA civic history lessons to help the workers interested in becoming "citizens." Deport the criminals, employ, educate and assimilate the "other" Americans.

One thing is true!!! wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:26 AM:Not all Latinos are illegal! Not all illegals are Latinos! Not all these day laborers are illegal aliens. Some of them have jobs during the week and go to the day labor site just trying to make ends meet. Give them a break. If the opportunity is there who would not take it. At least they are working instead of committing crimes to make ends meet. See things can always be worse.

I get wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:32 AM:frustrated because it makes the city look "bad" in those areas when these men are loitering. Isn't there a hiring hall on Washington and Quince? Why are they not using this? We finally have decent businesses that have opened up in that area of town, but the laborers bring it down. Our only drive thru starbucks and I personally do not go because they stand in the driveway and it is intimidating. I say start issuing tickets for loitering. Starbucks please open a drive thry Starbucks on the very south end of town!!!!

Bubbles wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:39 AM:If "no new law required" is correct then why aren't the curbs of all the main thoroughfares already painted RED? Why doesn't the council champion that cause first? If the objective can be achieved without new law, go for it.

Ken wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:50 AM:I believe that it is about time that something is done about the day labor's loitering on street corners and causing a problem with vehicles stopping. The people that stop to pick-up day labors should also be fined for creating an unsafe situation. This has nothing to do with race, and any that says it does, is in fact a Racist person themselves.

Observer wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:26 AM:Mr. Gallo needs to be careful who he bans from the street. Some of those "day laborers" may be his colleagues from the real estate and mortgage lending business put out of work by the sub prime lending crisis. If we are lucky, Mr. Gallo himself may need some daily work after the next election.

No law needed wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:28 AM:Just don't hire them. The problem is not the laborers, it's the people who continue to make Quince Street an attractive place to find work. If there is no work, they will go away.

Patriot wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:43 AM:Not all Latinos are illegal. Not all illegals are Latinos. Not all these day laborers are illegal aliens. I agree with all of those statements. However, loitering is loitering. Doesn't the city already have some law against loitering? If so, can't the police inform the day laborers of the law and direct them to the city's hiring hall at Quince Street and Washington Avenue? The city day laborer

Alisi wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:46 AM:This is just a waste of money. They tried this in Vista by making employers register to hire day laborers and there are still the same amount or more day laborers waiting at that location looking for work. We must elimate poverty which is the root of the problem in order to get rid of the "eye sore". Why not look in productive ways to help find a solution rather than creating more of a problem. Mr. Gallo is just not too smart and I can't say much for those who follow him.

I want the City Council wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:52 AM:to explain to the Escondido tax payers why we must have independent contractors license and these people don't? City likes law suits?

State of California wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:00 PM:Penal Code 647, in part: 647c. Every person who willfully and maliciously obstructs the free movement of any person on any street, sidewalk, or other public place or on or in any place open to the public is guilty of a misdemeanor. Nothing in this section affects the power of a county or a city to regulate conduct upon a street, sidewalk, or other public place or on or in a place open to the public.

To No New Law Requried and Those Suggesting Use of the Hiring Hall wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:17 PM:No New Law Required: Interesting idea re: painting all the curbs red, but I'm not sure Starbucks and the other businesses around there would like it very much if their customers couldn't park in front of their businesses. More parking = easier access for customers. Also, to those wondering why the hiring halls aren't being used, it likely has a lot to do with Escondido's history of using governmental settings/requirements to identify undocumented immigrants. Think about it: If you didn't have legal status in this country, and you knew the city you lived had previously attempted to get you evicted and regularly sanctioned/encouraged ICE raids, wouldn't you be concerned about showing up at a city-run hiring hall and announcing that you were a day laborer? If Escondido passes this ordinance, the day laborers will just shift their location somewhere else nearby. Any real solution needs to come through immigration reform at the federal level. These workers will be somewhere seeking work no matter what, perhaps it's time we stopped trying to prevent their presence, and started trying to regulate them via work permits etc.

Robert24 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:01 PM:To State of California; how 'bout operating without a business license, operating without a contractor's license, loitering, etc.? Like many have said, no need for a new "law", just enforce the ones we already have.

Lisa wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:12 PM:The One-Issue Candidate has "reared its ugly head"! Knew it was coming, just didn't know when. Ed Gallo will/intends to use this (day labor ordinance) as a platform to get him re-elected; counting on the controversy and that the majority will vote based on that one issue. When will Gallo acknowledge the damage his actions have created for this city? Gallo was part of the following ordinances/actions: The ordinance to prohibit the hospital from building at the ERTC; the Rental Ban Ordinance; the shopping cart ordinance; the daytime curfew; constant Traffic Checkpoints (which has not helped our city’s overall crime rate); and the proposed parking restriction ordinance (which has dragged on for months - initially, Gallo said “no studies” were necessary - but later Gallo and the council had to back peddle and hire a consultant to study the parking issues). All of these things have cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars (probably more than a million dollars). For what…so Ed Gallo, a commercial real estate agent can exercise his authority and act superior! It is obvious to me (and many others), that our mono-syllabic/one issue councilman Ed Gallo...has pulled out the "Anti-Illegal Hero" card and intends to use it to get re-elected! Pepto-Bismol, anyone?

Question wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:19 PM:Question regarding Patricia Bennett's comments: she said "laborers have run up to her car in droves when she has pulled over on Quince Street to answer her cell phone". My question is where is she parking on Quince - I mean there is no parking allowed on Quince between Mission & Washington. I think someone is exaggerating!!

Karl wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:42 PM:"You're Being Duped", you through out "knowing he has nothing but a record of failure" and then you challenge readers to come up with something that Ed has done right. How about if you come up with a list of his failures to back up your assertions? Until you do your allegation is meritless. Your list had better be longer than the rent control ordinance.

jERRY wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:44 PM:FULL SPEED AHEAD....DAMN THE ACLU.

Yep wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:06 PM:Not only do they need their independant contractors license, make sure they can provide proof of their workmens comp insurance. Its the law. Oh thats right, whats that.

It seems Lisa wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:17 PM:likes the degradation of Escondido. How many millions do the illegal aliens cost the city, annually, Lisa?

NCT Parking Lot wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:43 PM:I agree! The NCT parking lot should be designated as an informal open-air hiring center. We need to start a campaign to make this a reality. If the NCT objects, it is a racist enterprise.

Just the Facts wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:48 PM:Fact: University studies show 85-95% of day laborers are here illegally. Fact: Border Patrol statistics indicate 20-30% of aliens have criminals records. Fact: This site in Escondido has a long history of problems. Conclusion: Close this illegal street-side hiring site. Employers can hire their workers at nearby labor centers like Labor Ready.

what stats? wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:02 PM: Hey "justthefacts." what university? what study? and give us the date and name of the border patrol study. you sound like Lou Dobbs and Bill O'Reilly, who reach around and pull stats out of somewhere behind them.

Robert24 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:14 PM:I think Lisa needs to step away from the Kool-Aid bowl. If Ed Gall has "cost the city" a million dollars with his attempt to try and clean it up, good for him! It is a drop in the bucket for what we are paying to have the illegal element in town. Kudos to Ed (and the others) for trying to clean Escondido back up. I'm sick of seeing the blight brought on by those who have no desire to live here, but only to break our laws and disrespect this Country. Let Lisa and the others like her take in these folks and feed, clothe and educate them. If they would play by the rules, there wouldn't be a problem.....

anotherview wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:19 PM:Start from principles: One, illegal aliens have no right to live and work in America. Two, good citizens obey the law, and expect others to do the same. Three, by enforcement of the law, America can free itself of illegal aliens. Now, yes, the City of Escondido appears to suffer from a loitering problem in the form of day laborers using public sidewalks and public streets to solicit work, thereby creating a public nuisance, if not a public safety issue. The contemplated ordinance may or may not effectively end this problem. Forget the bully ACLU and its threat to stand in the way of measures to counter the negative impacts of illegal aliens. Another truly effective remedy exists. The city could adopt a policy whereby its police fully cooperate with federal authorities to identify and detain illegal aliens (and criminal aliens) for their due deportation. In doing so, city officials must ignore the assertion that this policy would push illegal aliens further into the shadows or make illegal aliens reluctant to report crime. After all, shielding illegal aliens from capture and deportation would unintentionally and perversely protect some criminal aliens. Over time, by this legitimate process of cooperation with federal officials, Escondido would terminate its de facto status as a sanctuary city for illegal aliens and criminal aliens. If every city and state across the country adopted such a cooperative policy, then soon enough America would rid itself of illegal aliens and criminal aliens. America would prosper all the more.

Cally wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:28 PM:For 70 years a wall worked quite well for the soviets so why not the US. But instead of keeping people in we will keep people out. We have the technology we just need the Governmental fortitude. The US is at war with those south of the border but our Government won't recognize it for what it is. It not a war on drugs it is a war for sovereignty and we are losing.

MOST DAY LABORERS ARE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ........ wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:34 PM:http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/07/26/news/top_stories/1_10_467_25_07.txt

To To No New Law Required wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:34 PM:Parking on the street in front of Starbucks and the other businesses around there is not permitted now. Customers park in off-street parking lots provided for that purpose. Some of the curbs in the area are painted red and some no stopping, no parking, signs are posted. The problem is the current rules are not enforced. If tickets were issued to violators potential employers would not stop. Day laborers would not stand on the sidewalk waiting for nonexistent employers, they would go elsewhere. And if red curbs with no parking, no stopping signs on all main thoroughfares were the rule in Escondido not the exception the fact is those laborers would move to a location outside of Escondido. In those cases where businesses were not required by the city to have off-street parking available, for whatever reason, and customer parking is reasonably allowed at the curb those spots are normally taken by customers of those businesses and the city could and should reserve those spots for those businesses during the hours they are open. Such business owners should not have to contend with day laborers congregating in front of their businesses or potential employers of day laborers stopping in traffic lanes or utilizing needed parking spaces. Again, no new law is required. Utilize the rules that are on the books already. The day laborer problem can be solved overnight.

To Robert24 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:40 PM:Enlighten us all Mr. One-Issue Man, himself...What is the "Kool-Aid bowl"? P.s. Everyone already knew the rest of your comments - you are a Copy/Paster! You are SO TRANSPARENT! Living in Fear!

Just the Facts wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:03 PM:The stats I quoted above were proven long ago in studies and articles published in this newspaper. See above. If you are still in doubt, drive over there and ask for papers and watch the blank stares you get back. Wake up America. No one can possibly condone this crime site. We are America, not El Salvador. We don't need dozens of unknown illegals loitering on our streets. Only unscrupulous employers hire illegal aliens workers for low wages. Hire Americans and Marines at the HirePatriots website

Robert24 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:06 PM:Enlighten us all Mr. One-Issue Man, himself...What is the "Kool-Aid bowl"? P.s. Everyone already knew the rest of your comments - you are a Copy/Paster! You are SO TRANSPARENT! Living in Fear! No fear here, just tired of all the cry babies that support this illegal activity. One of the reasons that we have this problem is because everybody is so afraid to step on anyones toes. God forbid that somebody actually stand up to this illegal activity and try and stop it. We might offend some illegal alien or their illegal family. As for transparent, that is just a lack of originality on your part, since you obviously disagree with those of us that expect the laws of this Country to be upheld. Oh yea, you needed an explanation on the Kool-Aid bowl: Nothing more than sugared water, just like the sugary responses that come from the "feel-good" crowd that is afraid to call illegal activity what it is, and try to rationalize any good that may come from it. Let me guess: you probably employ (take advantage of these people for your own personal gain) these people, and can't stand the thought of having to mow your own lawn when they're gone, huh?

To Karl, 1:42 post wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:08 PM:You wrote: "Your list better be longer than the rental ordinance" - just curious: Or What? Obviously, spending $300,000 is no big deal to you (cause it isn't your money). I'll answer your question that you posed to 'You're Being Duped'... Karl, read the post by Lisa @1:12pm - she cites a bunch of Gallo failures. What do you have to say about her comments? Be specific...no "blanket statements".

jvc wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:09 PM:Why all this stupid stuff like city council passing laws against street hiring, just require these people to use a hiring hall paid for from dues of its members or paid for by community support!

anotherview wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:20 PM:As to supposed racism motivating the clean-up of day laborers creating a public nuisance and perhaps a public safety issue, none of the individuals posting clearly defines the term "racism." Instead, they hurl it back and forth. Likely not one in a thousand citizens could define this term or its cousins bigotry, prejudice, intolerance, bias, and discrimination. Hurling the term "racism" typically amounts to name-calling to gain an advantage over another. An argument that coherently applies the tools of critical thinking more usefully advances the public discourse. Yes, recent news reports have presented information on the make-up of the day laborer class as mostly Mexican illegal aliens. Targeting these illegal aliens because they resemble Mexicans may involve so-called racial profiling. Yet, illegal aliens have no right to live and work in America. Hence, the remedy for the day laborer problem has two parts. One, outlaw the day laborer behaviors that create a nuisance or otherwise compromise public safety. Two, adopt a city policy of police cooperation with federal authorities to identify and detain illegal aliens for their due deportation. By enforcement of the law, America can free itself of illegal aliens, and moderate the negative impacts of illegal aliens. America will then prosper all the more.

Paul ... wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:53 PM:Good job, get rid of all of them. We The People need to remember that we all pay taxes . Illegal alien day workers do not. They have broken the laws of our country and should be rounded up, punished and than deported. Americais not the dumping ground for the third world. Exactly how many gardeners do we need? these are the people that America cant do without? If so why are there so many just standing around all day? We need to deport these criminals immediatly. ...

Its not illegal.... wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:57 PM:to rent to undocumented folks. My firm specializes in finding housing for undocumented workers in high-dollar areas. The workers need to live close to the homes of the wealthy where they work, I find them cheap housing. Just last week I moved three families into a nice home in Solana Beach in a very upscale area. They wwere happy and I made some $$$! To ask for proof of citizenship would be illegal when renting.

Be Be wrote on Dec 7, 2007 6:10 PM: They will not go to the daylabor office,because they are illegal aliens!They would rather get their $100.00 a day,instead of being legal and geting $70.00 a day. We need stronger laws,when it comes to the people who "Hire" the illegals.Manditory jail time and a "large fine"for starters.

To Robert 24 @4:06pm wrote on Dec 7, 2007 6:14 PM:Oh...so that's what YOU mean by the "Kool-Aid Bowl". I thought you were part of the Jim Jones "just drink the kool-aid" Fan Club. We know you are a huge fan of "Ed" & "Sam" and "Marie"...all who want us to "drink the kool-aid" and "do as they say". As for the rest of your comments...already read them last year, last month, last week, last night and will read the same comments tomorrow and the day after and the day after that. YAWN! Your whole "pack them all up and send them back" mentality shows your lack of realism. Like it would be that easy! HA!

So Ed and Sam wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:01 PM:Did you get the message. If you want to get re-elected paint the curbs of busy streets red, have the police ticket anybody that stops, parks or otherwise obstructs traffic. Have the police ticket any day laborer loitering or obstructing the sidewalk. If said day laborer can not prove he is in the country legally hold him for the ICE agent your police chief says has a desk at the police station. You do that nobody will even pull papers against you. Four more years, four more years.

huh wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:11 PM:There's a Starbucks on Quince St?

1 question wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:27 PM:Has Mayor Pfeiler and any other city council used a "day laborer" at there personal residence????? I'm sure Gallo does his own yard maintance!! HA!!

To : Starbucks wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:30 PM:What were you thinking?? Putting a store at that location???? It's not like there arent enough of them in Esco already........

Robert24 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 7:35 PM:To "To Robert24 @ 4:06pm"; That's all the rebuttal you got? Guess I hit a little too close to home for you, huh? Yup, us legal Americans are all preaching the same thing, day after day, and month after month. We've had enough, and no, it won't be that simple. But it will happen. ...

Johnny wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:34 PM:City of Escondido: Deport the ILLEGALS and leave the good people alone. This is a free country. If you are here legally, you have a right to seek employment. That's not too difficult to figure out. It only took me about 1 minute.

Jack wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:06 PM:Make them use the Hiring Hall. Get them off Quince Street. If they don't use the Hiring Hall, everyone thinks they are illegals. City Council please continue to clean up Escondido. We are starting to look like TJ.

Immigrants or an illegal invasion of aliens? wrote on Dec 8, 2007 1:55 PM:I looked up the word “alien.” The word is defined as follows: “A foreigner; one born in, or belonging to, another country; one who is not a denizen, or entitled to the privileges of a citizen. A denizen would be someone between a citizen and an alien. Today we would refer to them as a legal or resident alien, whether their status be or temporary or permanent. According to the U.S. Constitution, one of the highest callings or responsibilities of the federal government is to protect our nation from “invasions.” It does not matter whether the invasion is armed or not, even though on our Southern border the invasion it is becoming ever more armed and violent.

Escondido is Not Alone ............. wrote on Dec 8, 2007 1:57 PM:The numbers of aliens in our nation today number in the millions, perhaps tens of millions. They are in every state in the lower 48 and their sheer numbers are jolting many American citizens awake to the problems associated with their presence. Our federal government continues to stall at dealing with these problems or at best the progress is slower than a snails pace. Therefore, many states, burdened by the excessive social costs presented by these aliens, are beginning to deal with these problems within the confines of a state’s ability to do so.

I Know You Have Heard This Before ........... wrote on Dec 8, 2007 1:59 PM:A nation is defined by its borders, language and culture. Our borders leak like a sieve, ever larger numbers of people don’t speak English and huge sub-groups are forming rather than assimilating into an uniquely distinct American culture. What we are seeing today are large numbers of people coming to our nation, to access our prosperity. Yet they have no desire to learn our language, learn of our history, our rules or the ideas behind what it takes to make a nation successful or great. In fact some simply want to import their culture to our nation. This has the potential to tear our nation apart.

i think this is Sexist ....... wrote on Dec 8, 2007 2:09 PM:If men can stand on the street corners, and make themselves available for any type of work, then why can't women. This is beyond racist!

Simple solution wrote on Dec 8, 2007 2:15 PM:no more illegal (read the 14th Amendment) baby citizenship. Then, no more benefits to the illegal parent(s) for the illegal baby. Then, not even the illegals can work for slave wages they are paid, but supplemented by social servies, via their babies. Problem solved. No benefits, no employment, no lure, stay home and fix your own countries and demand THEY provide you with all the perqs the US does.

Charlie wrote on Dec 8, 2007 2:25 PM:We should be cognizant of and use the term alien rather than immigrant. An immigrant would be a person with the intention of legally coming to America to become a resident and citizen. A properly controlled number of immigrants with quality character, talents and skills valuable for America is good for America, an uncontrolled invasion of aliens is not.

K.A.L. wrote on Dec 8, 2007 6:00 PM:Call them whatever you wish but they are here to stay. Gallo, Waldron, Abed and the leaders of cities are wasting more tax dollars on this issue than the illegal immigrants are draining from our system. The 14th Amendment provides rights to ANY PERSON in the jurisdiction. It does not say they must be a citizen. The 14th Amendment makes children born here automatic citizens. Like it or not that is the truth. Only Congress can change the Constitution and I don't think that is going to happen because they can't seem to get their act together. I personally call ALL human beings, people! However if for some of you it is necessary to put labels on folks let me ask, do you refer to a caucasian male as a white guy or an African American as a black guy? No right because no matter how we got here we are here. Same with the Latino immigrants it does not matter if you like them or not they are here and therefore protected under the 14th Amendment. They are ENTITLED, yes ENTITLED to life, liberty, property, and equal protection under the law. As far as going back and fixing their OWN country why not educate yourselves before making such a stupid remark! Have we forgotten what the U.S. did when the Nicarguans tried to fix their own country? Also lets end NAFTA and get rid of all the American companies doing business in Mexico and then maybe just maybe they will be able to fix their own country. For now I will do all I can to fix my country.

To K.A.L. wrote on Dec 8, 2007 7:38 PM:Thanks I feel so much better now. Even though I pay a ton of money to send my children to private schools, I know my tax dollars are being well spent to pay for the educations of Illegal Aliens' children. Yeah it is our fault that so many other countries are failing, and rather then those people who are citizens of other countries fix their own problems; they should just come here and sponge off our prosperity. After all the American taxpayers will pay for it.

K.A.L. wrote on Dec 8, 2007 10:27 PM:It is your choice to send your children to private schools and because you do your children will be able to send their children to private schools, good for you and for them. Your comment is a good one with on exception "and rather then those people who are citizens of other countries fix their own problems; they should just come here and sponge off our prosperity." You are living the land of prosperity because you were lucky enough to be born here. Yes it is our fault that many other countries are failing and if we do not stop being so greedy we will experience the same fate. As far the children of "illegal aliens' go if they are born here the are just as American as your children, they are American citizens after all we are a country of laws!

Question: Should it be illegal to hire illegal aliens? wrote on Dec 9, 2007 12:12 AM:Ummm ... it already *is* illegal to hire illegal aliens. The question should probably be "is it time to enforce the laws against hiring illegal aliens?" and ... yes, it is!

To 'Sexist' @ 2;09 PM wrote on Dec 9, 2007 4:08 AM:GREAT POINT! This ordinance should target ANYONE who goes out into traffic to solicit. It should be equal - solicit in traffic and along the roadways/streets and suffer the consequences. Illegal should be considered as illegal. Now let's watch the ACLU defend prostitution as a free speech issue!!!

To K. A. L. wrote on Dec 9, 2007 4:37 AM:The 14th can and may be amended. Your prejudice are glaring. Not all people born in the 'land of prosperity' are prosperous. THAT is where your failure of fact is most apparent. You see us as the land of milk and honey. Take your racist blinders off please. This country has its own poor and its own problems! PLEASE excuse us if some of us still adhere to the old adage that "charity begins at home." Yes, we have laws and we have history. And we also have reality. SPIN THAT!!!

To K.A. L. wrote on Dec 9, 2007 4:57 AM:You will meet much more than your match. Your biggest mistake is in taking U.S. citizenship so lightly. Many of us know our history, appreciate the sacrifices made for us and are willing to fight to protect it if it becomes neccesary. Would you care to guess how many people read these words but choose not to comment, who feel the same way? YES, we are a country of laws and also a country of people who amend g bad laws.

Nick wrote on Dec 9, 2007 7:49 AM:To KAL: Children of ILLEGALS will not be citizens for much longer. There are bills trying to be passed right now to amend that part of the Constitution, for it is being abused by those here ILLEGALLY. NO MORE CITIZENSHIP for children of ILLEGALS! Enough is Enough!

I agree if wrote on Dec 9, 2007 12:57 PM:the City allows men to go stand on the corners looking for work, then the ladies of the evening have the same right and should not be hassseled. Sorry Escondido, can't have it both ways. I would love to see this issue played out in a court of law. Which criminal has the most rights. lol

Bill wrote on Dec 9, 2007 1:19 PM:To:I agree if: That is a good point, I think the ladies of the evening would be the criminal with the most rights being that they are LEGAL citizens, oh but wait, we LEGAL citizens are now the minority, so I guess my point is mute. True though why should there be a new ordinance written for actions that are already written in the books. Just ticket/arrest/deport these loiterers.

Dear KAI wrote on Dec 9, 2007 1:45 PM: "It requires the states to provide equal protection under the law to all persons (not only to citizens) within their jurisdictions, and was used in the mid-20th century to dismantle legal segregation" NO ILLEGAL is under the jurisdiction of ANYTHING in the US and therefore NEITHER are their children. The 14th Amendment was written for slaves and THEIR children, already UNDER THE JURISDICTION of the US. ...

Please wrote on Dec 9, 2007 1:47 PM:can someone please tell me what race are illegals? Can someone please tell Ed Sifuentes that his article, stating that 98% of day laborers are illegals, but they were just a small % of the over all work force is racist? The argument just doesn't hold water and never has. The FACT that you now register kids in US public schools as "non hispanic white" proves the point that hispanics are NOT a different race than "whites". They may be a different ethnicity, but somehow "ethnist" just doesn't have the same sting. The FACT that the vast, vast majority of day laborers are hispanic, and according to ES, 98% are illegals, still can't bring the cry of "racism" into the debate. The FACT that loitering on street corners, looking for illegal work, by people illegally in the country is just more laws broken, but if you dare protest this FACT, why, you're racist.

Carol wrote on Dec 9, 2007 2:26 PM:This city council needs to be replaced by people who will do something about all the illegals not just talk come election time. As was stated over and over on this blog, the laws are already in place. This council has their police chief send motorcycle officers to ticket parents of LR Green School who drive through Kit Carson Park in order to avoid the traffic jams on Bear Valley but won't tell that same police chief to ticket employers of illegals that stop on Quince right under no stopping signs. A couple of squad cars with flashing lights ticketing the employers for parking or stopping on Quince would cure this problem in a hurry. No new law is needed. Why don't they tell their police chief to round up every loiterer on Quince and hold everyone of them that can't prove they are legal for ICE. No new law is needed. Better yet why doesn't this do nothing council tell their police chief to send a couple dozen of his officers to get 206 (g) training so they can really police the illegals problem. No new law is needed. Ed Gallo and Sam Abed are a crock.

See For Yourself wrote on Dec 9, 2007 7:20 PM:If you really want to see how bad the day laborer situation can become, then take a drive to the Imperial Marketplace Mall in San Diego (Marketplace Avenue). There is a home improvement store in that mall and many small businesses. Some days I have see maybe up to 100 or more day laborers congregating in the parking lot and the surrounding streets. It is very intimidating to go into that mall. It has gotten so bad that the home improvement store has resorted to hiring armed guards to keep their customers free from harassment. And yet you can go there tomorrow and this situation will still exist.

another steve wrote on Dec 10, 2007 11:47 AM:Kids, please. You'll never be able to convince the idiot liberals that day laborers are anything less than fully productive members of society (who just don't happen to pay income tax). Just sit back and watch. As the population demographic shifts, and the crime increases, and as we lose Southern California, opinions will start to change...

ANYTHING FOR VOTES!!!! wrote on Dec 10, 2007 4:30 PM:THIS GUY IS SO DESPERATE FOR VOTES THAT'S WILLING TO CONTINUE DIVIDING THE CITY WITH ALL THIS NONSENSE. I HOPE PEOPLE SEE THAT THESE STOOGES DON'T CARE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY.

To: ANYTHING FOR VOTES!!!! wrote on Dec 10, 2007 6:59 PM:HE WILL GET MY VOTE! ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION IS THE ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO GET FIX THE MOST. IF I WANTED TO LIVE IN MEXICO I WOULD MOVE THERE.

To: ANYTHING FOR VOTES!!!! #2 wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:50 AM:He has my vote too. There is no other local issue that affects us more! Escondido is in the U.S. - we shouldn't have to choose between our own country and Mexico. We are talking about two seperate sovereign nations. If you feel that there should be a change, you need to be willing to fight us for it!!!

RE: ANYTHING FOR VOTES!!!! wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:44 AM:Of course he is going to get votes. That is exactly what the people want. So how does that divide the city if the American Citizen Voters, want issues addressed. The elected officials represent the people of the United States, not Illegal Aliens from other countries. I am glad you understand this concept.

jsc wrote on Dec 11, 2007 1:47 PM:I am a U.S. citizen, a former Medi-Cal worker, I speak Spanish and I lived in Mexico for a year. Mexican authorities regularly run off unlicensed vendors who set up shop in front of legitimate businesses. Many Mexican companies also hire security to run off loiterers. Just like in the U.S., they return quickly. The reason so many day laborers stand on the street is: 1) unlicensed contractors pick them up them because they will either work for less than prevailing wage, driving our wages down; 2) they don't pay income tax, SDI, UIB ,SSA, Medicare, etc on the wages and they don't have to pay workers comp either, saving the employers plenty. Many laws are being broken: 1: hiring someone without a SSN, not paying payroll taxes, not having workers comp insurance. Go after the employers first!! Then target the day laborers. If they were legal residents they could sign up for work at temporary agencies. About 1% of my Medi-Cal clients who were legal would do day labor in between regular jobs (or 1% reported it). Legal or not, day laborers seldom report them income and it doesn't count against the cash aid, food stamps, medi-cal, subsidized housing, etc they are receiving and you, the citizen, you the employer, are paying for!! Suggestion: Last time I went to All Star Glass to have my broken windshield replaced, several day laborers jumped in the back of my pickup truck. Fortunately I had called ahead so the All Star employee came up to my truck so I didn't have to deal with the undesired hitchhikers. Why don't all the pickup owners in San Diego pick these guys up then drive at a high rate of speed to the police station or border patrol station and drop them off?

jsc wrote on Dec 11, 2007 1:50 PM:oh and by the way I won't patronize any businesses that have illegal aliens on their property. The illegals had been on the sidewalk and trespassed onto AllStar Glass's property to get at me. I don't shop at any Home Depot or any place else that allows them on their property. But the government needs to clean up the streets, sidewalks and other public property.

He has my vote wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:27 PM:all 250 of them!

umm wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:46 PM:why wasnt my comment posted about the big green border patrol vans? Where have they gone? I NEVER see them, anywhere. It may not be a permanent solution, but if these illegals see a few of their friends nabbed, in front of these local businesses (lowes, home depot, this street corner) I dont think they would risk the headache of getting sent back to mexico. Thus, this specific problem solved. At least do it for the sake of us LEGAL citizens, and know that we are making progress sending these aliens back. I don't see anything being done

esteban wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:42 AM:To jsc, lol, that was pretty funny. If you seriously are going to boycott anything to do with illegal’s you better stop buying local fruit or any fruit produced in the US you might have to move out of your house also. Good luck on that impossible boycott of yours.

esteban wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:49 AM:To JSC, who reports money that they make on side jobs to the IRS? Not me. What US Citizen doesn't try to cut corners when they do their taxes at the end of the year? Who doesn't look for iffy tax breaks?

another steve wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:19 AM:To Esteban--- So if something is too hard, don't try, right? I feel sorry for your kids. There are plenty of US citizens who don't cut corners and try to do things the right way (you apparently just don't happen to be one of them), and besides, that's not who we're discussing here anyway. We're talking about ILLEGAL ALIENS. Try to keep up. To JSC--- Right on, stick with it. As much as is practical and possible, I also do not patronize businesses that employ or coddle illegal aliens. Sure, it's not easy, but it's one more person trying to make a dent in this problem. Many people don't yet understand why we do this, but they will someday.

USING THE ILLEGAL CARD!!!!! wrote on Dec 17, 2007 12:26 AM:HE HASN'T DONE ANYTHING GOOD TO GET RE-ELECTED AND NOW HE JUST HAVE TO BLAME OTHERS TO PLAY WITH THE IGNORANCE OF MANY, TRY TO SEE WHAT'S HIS PLATAFORM AND YOU'LL FIND NOTHING! THE ONLY THING THAT HE CAN DO IS TO BLAME OTHERS; LIKE LAST WINTER WHEN HE CLOSED THE EMERGENCY WINTER SHELTER DURING THE COLDEST NIGHT OF THE SEASON; OR NOW THAT WHEN HE'S TRYING TO FINE PEOPLE PARKING IN FRONT OF THEIR OWN HOMES AT NIGHT.

Jake wrote on Dec 26, 2007 9:24 AM:Stop the hate. -SD Padre Family

God is Watching wrote on Aug 4, 2008 3:56 PM:God day, I felt it necessary to reply to the comments I see posted about a very difficult subject Or is it.

God sent his only Son Jesus Christ to save man.

Can we not do the same for Christ.

If we all met as a community we could work this out to everybodys satisfaction.

I personally have bought coffee for those laborers at Starbucks I told them God loves them and I wished them luck in finding work.

I challenge you to look in your hearts and give your time to help the disadvantaged people (your brothers and sisters in Christ)visit the sick,help the poor, serve your fellow man in some way to make someones life better. Give your time, money or prayers to all God's people. Come judgement day I want for you to be remembered as a person who cared for his fellow human beings and tried to make the world a better place and of course brought them to Christ.

God Loves you All

God Bless