Washington Park East Neighborhood Association

Those of us that live near South High School would like support and understanding about the current usage and anticipated usage of the facilities at South High. We all moved in the neighborhood knowing that the fields and school were there. We do not have a problem with DPS functions at the school that are reasonable on noise, traffic etc. It appears that the facilities are more and more being used for other functions without consideration to the neighborhoods on either side of the school. Promises are made that certain functions would no longer occur (semi-pro football), but still do, there seems to be no consideration of the neighborhoods by people who do not live in the neighborhoods. It seems to be a periodic, but constant battle. Things occur at the school; the neighbors get upset and meet with officials and things quiet down for a while, then the battle starts again. Why can't the school officials be aware of our concerns. Surely, we have called them enough that we should be on their mind when it comes to decision making

By Gerald Anderson

Need some more explanation

I am interested in your concern for organizing to better work with the city officials. I have a couple questions first. Can you tell me how we have approached them in the past? Has there ever been an organized meeting with the city officials where we submit our concerns and formal desires in writing? What are the types of broad issues we can work on - ie a formal communication channel etc. Are there many neighbors who feel this way and how do we get them all involved? Just asking these to have some background about what you are dealing with.
signed - a neighbor

South High

We have had numerous meetings with the DPS, more specifically Craig Cook. The meetings are less than harmonius (sp), as there is only one way that things are going to happen, and that is the DPS way. Though, I must admit that the last time I talked to Craig, he was less sactimonius than usual, also this summer has been better than others. It does seem though that we have to keep on top of them and constantly call them, or else they seem to think that we have gone away. That is a hell of a way to run a railroad. You can return my e-mail.

By Gerald Anderson