Makaha Beach shows changes can be made

In a surprisingly quick response to the public, a city bulldozer filled in the heavily eroded areas of Makaha Surfing Beach on Sept. 28.

The beach, which had a four-inch water pipe, several rocks, and a number of pilings exposed by last winter's heavy surf, has been cited as a safety hazard in The Honolulu Advertiser.

This quick response rarely characterizes government action, and deserves recognition. It also shows the effectiveness of a free press, giving credit to the American system.

On the other hand, ir also shows how to American system can be improved/ Although the erosion was caused by last year's swells, the issue has been only recently recognized as important enough to act.

Instead of being prompted by a prevailing sense of proactivity and forethought, Hawai`i in general has a very reactive system. Rather than prepare for the future, we wait until the last possible moment to change policy.

One can definitely say we have a government of the people, by the people, for the people.