The proposed law would require new restaurants to install the devices, and provides for regular inspections. But for existing restaurants, the management practices can be just as effective as the interceptors and are far cheaper, said Judith Wilson, executive director of the city's Bureau of Sanitation. State and federal officials have joined Santa Monica Baykeeper in suing Los Angeles to reduce the number of sewage spills. In 2000, the city had 689 sewage spills. Almost half were caused by grease blockages, and many resulted in pollution reaching local beaches.
City officials say half of the grease comes from residences and half from local restaurants.
Fleischli said the city could offer exemptions for restaurants that can't afford to purchase the admittedly expensive devices. The proposed ordinance is expected to come before the City Council in the next few weeks. But Fleischli said the council's stance so far will make it more difficult to negotiate the lawsuit against the city by his group. The Copley Press Inc.