Friday, August 2, 2002

Neighborhood fighting back and cleaning up

By JOHN THOMPSON
jthompson@TheCitizenNew.com

One of Fairburn's communities is starting to take back the streets.

In the small neighborhood of Lightning, shotgun houses offer a glimpse into the past, but the residents hope to have a brighter future.

"We've had several arrests in the area for loitering and drug trafficking," said Police Chief Mackie Carson.

The neighborhood was often filled with residents who rented property and used the location for illegal activities.

But in the last few years, more than 22 Habitat for Humanity homes have been built in the area, and the owners want the neighborhood cleaned up and crime-free.

"These new owners are really taking pride in their neighborhood and we're glad to help them," Carson said.

On a stormy Tuesday, residents gathered to erect Neighborhood Watch signs to show visitors that they are serious about taking back the streets.

So far, the Neighborhood Watch organization has been cleaning up the area and targeting residents who don't take care of their property. The organization is actively seeking the city's expertise and has already had code enforcement officer Danny Dodson and Fairburn Housing Authority director Andre Netterville speak at their meetings.

The group stages activities at the park every second Saturday and holds meetings on the last Thursday of every month.