Wrong Site for Drug Center

First, let me state that I am not opposed to the concept of Phoenix House and what it represents, but I am vehemently opposed to its location in any single-family residence.

Like the gentleman whose letter was printed Sunday (“Give Phoenix House a Chance,” Letters to the Editor, Times Valley Edition, Nov. 1), I too have a conscience. I do not feel as if I am denying those adolescents but trying to protect my own children.

Young people are strongly influenced by the environment in which they live. It is a proven fact that a large number of youngsters who are treated in this type of facility return to their previous lifestyles.

Call me unobjective, mean-spirited or what you may, but I do believe our political leaders and our police chief when they say “the war on drugs must begin at home.”

I have the right as a property owner and a mother to defend my home life, just as Phoenix House has the right to purchase the property in Lake View Terrace. The fact that Phoenix House owns the property doesn’t mean that they should automatically be granted the privilege to do business there.

A full environmental impact report would address many of the concerns of the community and could validate Phoenix House’s righteousness as to wanting to be a good neighbor to all, not just a selected few.

ROSE M. MILLER

Lake View Terrace