Guest columnist, Betsy Joseph (CHN April 7), gives us another attack on the proposed IFC Community House for the corner of MLK Boulevard and Homestead Road. As usual for opponents, she uses misinformation and distortion to paint the proposed program in a most negative way. Trust is a two-way street, Ms. Joseph; if you want answers to your concerns and fears from the IFC and town then you must show some evidence of listening.

Here's a few things for you to think about in expressing your view: (1) The proposed Community House is not going to be in "the midst of Homestead Park." The neighborhoods around Homestead Park do not own it; it belongs to all of us. (2) The vast majority of people who find it necessary to stay at the facility as part of the long-range program or because of a weather emergency are not criminals or predators. (3) Those who leave, or are "turned away", from the Community House property are not the responsibility of the IFC any more than any of us are responsible for you when you leave our property. The IFC is accountable for its clients within their facility and the many volunteers. (4) The town has direct and indirect accountability for anyone on or off their property in a way prescribed by law and the constitution.

I appreciate those opponents who have gone to the IFC's extensive outreach sessions, to explain their plans, and expressed their concerns and "issues"; surely one of you listened.

Roscoe Reeve

Chapel Hill