To the editor:

I thought the recent article on the growing homeless problem in Lawrence was very well written (“As camps spring up, leaders to discuss ways to tackle homelessness,” April 4 Journal-World). I applaud the efforts of various city and county officials in assisting the homeless get professional help, in finding affordable housing and with cleaning up the messes they leave behind. Still, I am concerned that the city’s lenient policies and the apparent disregard of public offenses could transform Lawrence into a Mecca for the homeless. While I’m not sure who should handle, at a minimum, city officials should remind homeless campers to follow these guidelines:

• Clean up daily around your tent/shelter. Place garbage in a trash receptacle.

• Use public bathrooms; don’t defecate/urinate outdoors.

• Respect private property.

• Camping on public property does not confer ownership. Be mindful of other citizens.

Ray Finch,

Lawrence