It was brought to my attention that earlier email describing events and perceptions in our neighborhood might have been offensive to some. That is the opposite of what I had intended.

The intent of the email below was (1) to reiterate our support and appreciation for LPD, (2) to acknowledge the challenges faced by our residents as well as our officers, and (3) to find ways to support the resolutions of these challenges together. Unfortunately that did not come through to everyone as I had hoped.

So I wanted to apologize for any misunderstanding in relaying the information. And I wanted to express appreciation for the many folks at LPD who are going out of their way to partner with us in addressing these issues!

In the email I highlighted the chronological series of events in which neighbors characterized actions of LPD in a negative light. Those were authentic feelings and were conclusions based on the body of evidence folks had at that time.

However, the rest of the story revealed that the LPD officers/sergeants were not likely negligent in these events. Rather, that the problems seemed to stem from a series of communication gaps beyond the control of the individuals involved and from a shortage of resources.

Neighbors have indicated that the information relayed below was helpful in understanding LPD’s actions in a more positive light. We now understand more of what was happening that led to things playing out the way they did.

Yes, LPD has acknowledged that there are some problems that need to be fixed at an institutional level. But we see ourselves as part of the solution too. We’re stepping up to the plate together to make things better.

So I tried to objectively summarize what we’ve all learned about where those “gaps” are so we can seek changes together as a family of folks living and working in Lansing. The specificity of gaps noted was intended to create an efficient starting point for our problem-solving process this Thursday. I regret if it was seen as something else.

I want to say again how pleased I have been to work with LPD’s leadership and front line officers in dealing with the very serious problems affecting our residents. Some of our residents have experienced a great deal of trauma and I am thankful that LPD is responsive to our concerns.

Hopefully I explained myself better this time!

Sincerely,
Melissa S. Quon Huber, Ph.D.
Averill Woods Neighborhood Association