Letters: Cut neighbors in on Obama Library deal

SHARE Letters: Cut neighbors in on Obama Library deal
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The Obama Library is expected to be built in Washington Park or Jackson Park, within a stroll of the campus of the University of Chicago, where President Obama once taught law.

If there is no Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) in place for the residents of Washington Park, Jackson Park or even the South Side in general, what good does it do to have the Obama presidential library located there? Is anyone from these areas pursuing this? The fences can go up, the ground broken, and the trucks and work crews arrive, but without a CBA, will the local residents find themselves on the other side of the fence? Literally.

Since this is a private project, the city’s municipal code governing the hiring of local residents for city projects would not apply, I believe. The Obama Foundation or the University of Chicago, whichever entity will be handing out the various contracts, can do so as they please, I fear. Perhaps the residents of the neighborhoods in question think that because the president’s name is on the project, they will be treated fairly.

John Vukmirovich, Kenwood

SEND LETTERS TO: letters@suntimes.com (Please include the name of your neighborhood or town, and a phone number for verification.)

‘Chiraq’ more accurate than ‘Paradise’

Spike Lee nailed it when he said he would call his new movie “Chiraq.” Pick up the Chicago Sun-Times on any day and read the City Beat and Police Blotter. Do you do-gooders still want to call his movie “Paradise”? Tell it like it is.

R.C. Meder, Romeoville

 Don’t ride on the sidewalk

With the warm weather approaching, we’re being warned to be mindful of cyclists on the road. But how about warning the cyclists that if you are over 12 years of age, you do not belong on the sidewalk? Twice I have narrowly missed being hit by an adult zooming down a sidewalk on a ten-speed, oblivious to the fact that he should be on the street. They should read the regulations — bikes belong on the street. I would also suggest licenses and insurance coverage.

Thomas M. Smith, Beverly

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