Back Talk, Opposing Channelization View

The Diamondback October 19, 1971 Page 4 Dean Tuthill Responding to letter in the October 7 edition on channelization of Paint Branch and Indian Creek form the Environmental Conservation Organization. I am in support of channelization as it would benefit the residents of Lakeland. I have witnessed people rescued from their homes in boats and spoken to residents afraid when it rains. Those living on Lakeland Road have been subject to flooding for years and commitments have been made of help from the Corps of Engineers project. It is true no one should live in a know flood area but Black people live there because they had no other option. Much of the land is owned by whites living elsewhere. Purchasing the land using eminent domain is the only way to put land in the hands of community members. Once that is done young residents will have a chance to purchase land and build homes in Lakeland. If not this plan would the Environmental Conservation Organization ensure the avaliblity of low income homes for Black people in Collège Park Woods, College Park Estates, Berwyn or Berwyn Heights? For now Lakeland residents hope to improve their community.

Date

1971