its best was in evidence tonight as NSNA members and neighborhood residents filled the auditorium at the Sunshine Center to hear the CVS presentation of their rezoning proposal, the presentation of a group of neighborhood residents who oppose the project as proposed, and then audience members' comments. Participants voted overwhelmingly to report to the City Council objection to the rezoning request and to request the support of the Council On Neighborhood Associations in appearing at the City Council to object. This is an example of community self-determination and activism at its best. I met some neighbors for the first time. My hope is that more residents of North Shore will join the NSNA and that current members will increase their participation in meetings, on committees and in all the informal ways we have to improve our neighborhood. I did learn an interesting bit of information, which I intend to follow up on upon my return from vacation on July 3--Jim Martin revealed that the mentally ill and those diagnosed with "behavior disorders" and chemical dependencies reside in close proximity to Watson's, and that, apparently, there is some requirement that these residents be out of the ACLFs during the daytime. Theoretically, they reportedly are required to be participating in a class, work, or a Day Treatment Program. Mr. Martin reported that 360 of these residents live within walking distance of Watson's, so replacing Watson's will not cure the problem. I am a licensed mental health professional, and I will contact administrators at Boley Manor, the local agency committed to the social rehabilitation of this population; Suncoast Mental Health Center, the agency that provides outpatient treatment; the local Mental Health Association;, state administrators involved in regulation of these residences; and other appropriate parties to discuss this issue and potential solutions. Any person who would like to join me, please e-mail me. Susan
By Susan Rebillot
By Susan Rebillot
