Professor Johnson,
I would like to write a news feature about the aftermath of a Community Board 5 hearing held in Maspeth, Queens last Wednesday regarding the conversion of a Holiday Inn into a homeless shelter in the neighborhood.
At the public hearing, numerous residents presented their reasons for opposition towards the shelter to Steven Banks, the Commissioner of the New York City Human Resources Administration/Department of Social Services. In addition, Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley and Assemblywoman Margaret M. Markey were present to voice their disapproval of the plan. The most significant part was their announcement of a lawsuit against the commissioner to prevent the opening of the shelter.
Residents in the neighborhood have been opposed to the shelter due to safety concerns for the shelter and neighborhood residents as well as the lack of amenities in the hotel that is required for the shelter. Therefore, there have been various demonstrations against the conversion which included a march.
Due to the amount of activity and presence of government officials, I feel this is newsworthy. In addition, it relates to the issue of rising homelessness in the city and lack of shelters. I feel this story can focus on how residents plan to move forward after the announcement of this lawsuit and their input regarding the city’s homeless problem and present shelters in the area.
I believe I am the right person to write this story because I reported on a protest held by the residents earlier in August and the march I previously mentioned so I have been following this issue. In addition, I am familiar with the neighborhood as well as businesses that have supported the cause which could be potential sources.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Mark Garzon