Editor, The News:
There are a good number of people complaining about housing for the homeless. Their main concern is the reduction in their property values and drug use.
I walk my dog around various neighborhoods (and yes, I clean up after her) and I am appalled at the amount of garbage and the lack of upkeep of a lot of properties. Not only does it reflect on the homeowner, but also on the community.
Vacant lots, even those owned by the city, are used as dumping grounds and a place to throw such things as coffee cups, food containers, household garbage, used tires.
Pick up after yourselves.
Carry your garbage home with you if there isn’t a garbage can nearby and take your unwanted items to the dump. Teach your kids to be good citizens and not to litter. We can’t blame it all on the homeless. Sometimes we have to ask ourselves if we are part of the problem or part of the solution.
As for the drug use by the homeless, drug users live in houses too and maybe even next door to you.
Cheryle Thompson
Maple Ridge