by A
Friday, Jul. 14, 2006 at 8:02 PM
Attorneys for the farmers and the attorneys for the Horowitz and the city made their opening statements today to Judge Helen Bendix of the Los Angeles Superior Court.
The attorney for the farmers, Dan Stormer layed out the basis of the farmers case that the land was not legally sold to Horowitz by the city. First, that the conditions for re-sale of the land by the city as outlined in the initial terms under which the city acquired the land were not met. And that Horowitz’ claim of right of first refusal was not granted when the city first acquired the land. Second that the when the land was sold back to Horowitz it was done so without the proper legal process and it was sold back at far below the market value. This sale, at well below the market rate would then constitute a waste of public funds.
The opposing consul, Mr. Bornstien, argued that there was no waste because Horowitz only bought the parcels and not the streets and alleyways. Bornstien presented a map and claimed that when the areas of the streets and alleyways were subtracted the remaining area was sold at the market rate. Horowitz’ lawyers are also trying to stop the testimony of the farmers in court and are also seeking to limit the questions that can be asked of Councilperson Jan Perry who has been subpoenaed to testify.
Perry is believed to have inside knowledge of the city’s sale of the land due to her close relation with Horowitz. Witnesses for both sides are expected to take the stand tomorrow.