An investigation is needed into issues at Lincoln Place

An investigation is neededinto issues at Lincoln Place
EDITOR:
A couple of weeks ago, I read a short article in The Vindicator about a teenager who purposely set off a sprinkler system in Lincoln Place, causing extensive damage. The article reported that the girl did this to get "a little attention." It was not reported whether this was her contention (and if so, why?), or that of the authorities there. It might make a difference which. Nor has there been anything I have seen about the consequences to her of her act.
Recently, I attended a block watch meeting at which three people seeking elective local offices spoke of their qualifications. Because of rumors I had heard, I asked one of them if he had any connection with Lincoln Place. He spoke proudly of his 'marketing' efforts for Lincoln Place, asserting that now many counties, outside of this one, now use the facility. The moderator of the program pushed a microphone before me and asked me why I had asked about Lincoln Place; after my reply, she stated that she had never heard anything good about it.
After the meeting, two other attendees asked for my phone number, saying they would call me to tell of their concerns about Lincoln Place. They have not as yet.
I know nothing directly about Lincoln Place, so I can only say what many sources tell me; I do not know if they are true or false, but I have heard nothing favorable about the place.
I am told it is a for-profit facility for both genders, ages 10 to 18, who are there by the determination of some legal juvenile authority, and not voluntarily or at the request of family. I am told they are from many other counties, but not any from Mahoning County. If so, why not our county, why so far from friends and family, and, if there by legal authority, why a for-profit facility? If so, that would be no more socially desirable than a for-profit prison.
I am told that when some are picked up by police (curfew?), they beg not to be returned there. I am told that spider bites are frequent, that one required plastic surgery, and that when exterminators came, they treated only the kitchen, and not the living and sleeping quarters. I am told that there are juvenile diabetics there, but no insulin. I am told that the basic medical care there is by an elderly psychiatrist, and not by a general practitioner or pediatrician. What are provisions for education of the kids?
If any, some, or none of these things be true or false, who is responsible for the inspection of this quasi-public facility, and where can we see the reports of the inspections?
I know investigative reports cost money, but it might be worthwhile for one to report on Lincoln Place. Or should the investigation be by some worthy and trusted public official such as Rep. Sylvester Patton, Sen. Robert Hagan, or Judge Theresa Dellick?
Where to turn, for the sake of the youngsters?
ROBERT B. McCONNELL, M.D.
Youngstown
Too many in public serviceare hungry for the paycheck
EDITOR:
I have a few questions I would like to ask the citizens and voters of our county.
Do you think a true public servant, someone elected to public office, should get paid a full-time income but work a part-time job? (Example: county commissioners)
Do our public officials serve the public, or do they make more money than most of us but put in fewer working hours?
Do our so-called public officials really serve the public or are they self-serving?
People who want to make a living to support their family should get a job and serve their family.
I worked two jobs most of my life, and it is possible to work a full-time job and be a public official.
If a person truly wanted to serve the community, they would do so with little or no income from the public.
If you want a high-paying job, don't call yourself a public servant. That would be an oxymoron.
If I ever would run for a public office, it would be to serve and improve our community, not for a paycheck.
RICHARD A. CANACCI
Youngstown