NIMBY Strikes Again

There was an article in The Post today highlighting attempts by both MD Senators to move DC's juvenile detention center from Laurel into the District. DC, with no vote in Congress, of course, has no say in this matter. But that is beside the point.

In one of the news groups I subscribe to, HillEast, which happens to be my neighborhood, a debate raged about the location on the new center. While no location was specified, rumor has it that it will be placed in the eastern part of Capitol Hill. Residents were in uproar about having a juvenile detention facility in their neighborhood for fear of increased crime.

I urge citizens to take a true community view on this issue. We are one city, and we all need to work together to solve our problems. Would HillEast be my first choice for a new juvenile detention center? Probably not. But if it were truly the location that made the most sense, I would support it. If the kids in the facility are from DC, then the facility should be in DC where families can easily come to visit with them.

We are one city. Our problems will not be solved by continuing to isolate those who are less fortunate. While property values are an issue, let's think about the families in poverty who can barely make ends meet, and who are desperate for help. Let's put ourselves in their shoes. How would you feel if people wanted to keep you out of their neighborhood. You would probably feel hopeless. But suppose residents of HillEast embraced the facility and even volunteered and mentored some of the children who live there. It could make a difference in the lives of people who truly need help.

A rising tide will lift all ships. If we truly want to make the city a better place, everyone will have to pitch in. Let's not fall prey to the NIMBY syndrome.