CITY HALL — A lot has changed since the 1950s, especially when it comes to dating.
Accordingly, after careful deliberation, Santa Monica officials are preparing to get with the times by repealing a 1954 ordinance that prohibits “personal introductory service, marriage bureau, lonely hearts club, or other business of a like nature” from operating within the city limits.
Officials note dating services have evolved in the past 56 years and are no longer seen as sleazy.
“With the advent of computer technology, personal introduction and dating services have expanded and become a common and reputable way to meet others for social interaction,” a City Hall report stated.
And that’s not all: “Permitting bona fide matchmaking and dating services to operate within the city will benefit city residents and also benefit the city’s economy,” the report continues.
One holdover from a more puritan era remains: The city proposes to keep in place a ban on escort services.
The City Council is set to debate the ordinance change at its meeting on Tuesday.
nickt@www.smdp.com
