To the editor:

My husband and I welcomed about 40 neighbors earlier this month to hear about Family Promise (a proposed new ministry based on a proven national program to help families in need). We appreciated the interest but were a bit taken back by the resistance to the idea of a day center being in our neighborhood.

The questions about the number of people involved, the cars added to the neighborhood, the house being empty at night were valid and relevant. We thought the organizers answered what questions they could and were taking into consideration all the concerns.

Much of the distress was centered on a proposed change in wording for zoning. That, too, seems to be a valid concern.

We couldn’t really tell how the majority of the group felt. Were most in agreement with the dissenters or simply quiet? Many expressed their support privately to us as they left. Will the decision be made by a very vocal minority? We will be fine with any decision that represents the majority. We hope, though, that those who support and approve of the residential location won’t sit silently at the sidelines. It is really important to speak up – whatever your opinion.

We hope the task force and the board of Lawrence Family Promise won’t give up because of all the obstacles they’ve encountered. Much progress has already been made. It is a good program and one that our community needs – for the sake of the children.

Pat & Mike Lechtenberg,
Lawrence