Let 222 Locust draw neighbors together

We had a great a turnout for our recent Near West Neighbors Association meeting, the best turnout since I've been a member. Apparently the problems at 222 Locust St. are a mobilizing topic.

I agree something needs to be done about the problems at that location that are making the area a less desirable place to live. I would love nothing more than to see high-end properties built in this area and a subsequent increase in my home's value as I'm sure would every other homeowner in the area.

However, I also am aware of the fact that our neighborhood consists of a large number of low-income families, renters and subsidized housing. Like it or not, we are "stuck" with 222 Locust, at least until the lease runs out in 2021.

Why not make our neighborhood a model of cooperation by working with all people in the NWNA borders to make our neighborhood a great place to live?

I am dismayed that there is no representation from 222 Locust within NWNA (or if there is, I am not aware of it). I wonder what we can do to encourage participation from that building and some of the other rental units in the area.

Instead of an "us against them" mentality, it would be more productive to all work together. NWNA meetings are the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Cedar room of the Oak Crest Apartments on State Street.

In the 1960's, we used to say "if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem." This is still true today.

Ruth Criger

Elgin