Name:	H.M.K. Amen
City:	New Orleans, LA
Specific property affected:	Thomy Lafon school
Comments:	I grew up and my mother has always lived in the neighborhood called Cenral City where Thomy Lafon is located. In fact my mother is 86 years old, she attended Thomy Lafon school when she was a child. The site has great significance, however the original building has long gone. The Central City community fought to renovate Thomy Lafon school, however it was not approved for renovation. By the end of this year there will be totally new housing replacing the housing development that had been there since the 1940's. The new development promises to breathe a new life into the people who once lived in that housing complex returning, and into the surrounding neighborhood. The children will be attending school off site but within walking distance of their new homes. I can appreciate the historical significance of the site and the need to momorialize the site in some dignified, respectful and practical way. However it makes absolutely no sense to have a building unutilized and in an ever decaying state just sit on the property while a new complex with a promise of a new and bright beginning for the returning and new residents, stands overlooking the blight. Such a decision once again puts concern for the people, concern for the children last in consideration. I urge that the building be torn down in light of the fact that it is not going to be renovated, if at all in a reasonable timeframe. In earnest, hmk amen