We are defined by the community we live in and I am proud to announce that as a community we came together as one in opposition to the Latin American Youth Center’s (Youth Build) use of and residential addition to the JF Cook Elementary School. While we all live in our respective communities, issues affecting one community impacts on the surrounding communities.
Our community, bordered by the avenues that are considered the gateway into the city, took a stand. We will not accept just any development. We want development that improves our quality of life and strengthens and advances our community toward its full potential.
With that said, I would personally like to recognize the ANC5C for a unanimous vote in opposition to this development. The Hanover Civic Association, Bates Civic Association, and the Dunbar Shaw Homeowners Association also passed resolutions in opposition to this development. Over three hundred petition signatures were obtained from residents of Truxton Circle, Bates, Eckington, Edgewood, and Bloomingdale.
Our Ward 5 Councilman, Harry Thomas, Jr. stated at the September 14, 2009 Bates Civic Association meeting that he was opposed to the Latin American Youth Center developing the JF Cook Elementary School. When questioned if he would put his statement in writing, Councilman Thomas responded positively. Although the letter never arrived in the ANC5C mail, I appreciate Councilman Thomas openly stating his opposition to the development at a public meeting.
Sylvia Pinkney
Commissioner 5C02
Bates Area Civic Association 
I have a question. ANC and Civic Associations have been very active after the fact. My question is, where were all our elected and civic leaders when the District published the period for public comments? We had from June 30 to July16. Why were all of our elected leaders not monitoring the process?
I have yet to year a civic association, ANC or our council member, why did they fail to monitor the process? Where were our civic leaders when the District ask for public comments?