Local opinion: Complaint about "drug house," Council member response inaccurate

I would like to address an op-ed that was published in the Star on May 27, alleging a lack of response from my office to a constituent. I’m disappointed that the Star published this piece without contacting our office or the Tucson Police Department to at least verify its validity.

Without digging into too much detail, my staff has been in constant contact with the constituent over the years. We have corresponded with him by email, spoke with him on the phone and met with him in person. For him to say otherwise does not represent the truth. We have collaborated with TPD on at least four or five “actions” to address his concerns with the neighborhood house. I have emails he sent to my staff praising their effort as well as another one that addresses my staff as “little intern.” His behavior toward my staff has been disrespectful and, at times, abusive.

Specifically, for the case in question, TPD conducted several investigations involving the house he complained about. TPD then communicated their activities appropriately with the constituent. At the conclusion of the investigation, TPD determined “the activity did not reflect what was described in the original complaint.” TPD provided the constituent with the direct phone number of a community service officer assigned to the case, and that officer has not been contacted by the constituent.

Since this determination by TPD, the constituent has become more and more upset and chosen to take it out on my staff. He isn’t always hostile, as we have received notes of kindness, praising our efforts, but the tone of his notes can deteriorate rapidly.

Our office is open 42 hours a week and is committed to delivering high-level community and constituent services to all. I grew up in this area and take great pride in trying to make it better every day. Our office has a very good relationship with the neighborhood association where this case takes place. We are working on two different projects in that area. In these divisive times, it is very important to know both sides of every story.