Letter: Homeless need long-term plan

Thursday, March 14, 2002 | 8:43 a.m.

Your March 12 editorial "Homeless plan needs deadline" is unfortunate in its shortsightedness.

Municipalities have a role to play in ameliorating the problem of homelessness. In the short term, food, shelter and basic necessities should be provided judiciously. Through charities and local, state and federal governments, the American people are second to none in leading a hand of support to the needy.

Unfortunately, neither Mayor Oscar Goodman's task force nor the city or county's plan will work because leaders in Las Vegas and Nevada are unwilling to state the truth: Homelessness in some instances is a matter of choice and in most instances is a result of a culture of little discipline and low work ethic. Any long-term homeless plan should include classes and counseling in responsible behavior. While we can lend a short-term hand, any plan that does not put the onus on the homeless men and women is destined to failure.

Let's do our best to help others. But please, must we continue to throw money and programs at the problem? Isn't it time to invite common sense to the table and lay the ultimate responsibility for the success of the homeless to those who find themselves homeless?

CHARLIE MC KNIGHT