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    Sunday, May 05, 2024

    Housing the homeless an unfair burden in NL

    In describing the reaction to Homeless Hospitality Center's "Czarina," Catherine Zall, spearheading the purchase of yet another property for temporary housing, the editorial, “Finding means to share social burden of cities,” (Sept. 2), opines:

    "That is not to say that five properties going offline in New London does not hurt, however low the tax assessments on old buildings in marginal neighborhoods. It's a few thousand dollars in missing taxes, but it's symbolic of who, under the current tax system, gets left holding the bag."

    "Old buildings in marginal neighborhoods..." I think that phrase perfectly captures the perception of New London held by a gaggle of do-gooders from surrounding towns where old buildings are seen as charming and marginal neighborhoods are kept from decay by a blight ordinance and municipal intervention. 

    This assault on our neighborhoods, however well-intentioned, weakens our city. The assault is about much more than taxes. It is about safety, security and serenity and quality of life. 

    I would suggest that the Czarina Zall does not have the right to diminish our lives so she can go to sleep at night and feel virtuous. A complete narcissist. Shameful. 

    And don't get me started on the red herrings of transportation and services.

    Nancy Cole

    New London