We've lived in the Simi Valley community for 25 years, and believe it or not there was a time when the city actually took care of the Arroyo.

The worst part of this Arroyo I've seen is just east of Sycamore Drive and as far west of First Street. That green color in the Arroyo is where the water used to flow, and it was clear.

And the channels that feed into it are just as bad. Mind you, those channels are in the backyards of homes divided only with a fence. This green color is due to the standing water, which produces areas for the mosquitoes and flies, not to mention dead birds.

But the city wants the residents to make sure to keep their fountains well maintained and, of course, the pools in the backyard. As for the Arroyo, they call for volunteers to clean it of garbage. Now we read of the millions they want to spend to upgrade it for the people of Simi Valley.

Let me tell you, we once walked our dogs along that path, and they would run through clear water in the spring and summertime because then the city would bring a bulldozer in a couple times each year and clear it out.

That way it could flow as it was supposed to. It was an enjoyable area where you could ride your bike, take a walk- even with your pet- and not smell stale water with infection.

Have you ever noticed how often the city changes the medians, like on Tapo Canyon and other busy intersections? One day they have rocks and boulders and the next they have an avenue of flowers with palms or maybe they feel like putting in just red bricks. Let's repair this city where it is cost efficient.

Millions aren't needed to make areas like the Arroyo look nice and enjoyable to all, just common sense.

The simple things in life are just like that old phrase: "Stop and smell the roses." That is until they are run over with something that looks like green lime.

You think those that run this city would have these conditions allowed in their backyard? I highly doubt it.

But they probably live at the east end of Simi Valley. I've never seen that lime green color in the Arroyo when I've been in that area. Shar Hagerty Simi Valley