January 23, 2003

Ninth Congressional District

U.S. Representative Nick Lampson today sent a letter to Dr. Kathleen Hawk Sawyer, Director U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), U.S. Department of Justice expressing concern about a proposed halfway house in Nederland.  

"I have heard from numerous constituents on the proposal by the Federal Bureau of Prisons to locate a halfway house in Nederland, Texas.  We are all concerned by this proposal and the impact it may have on the community," said Lampson. "Area residents have expressed concerns to me that the public notice about this proposal has been woefully inadequate."

Lampson said he understands that Dismas Charities did not properly notify elected officials about the details of their proposal as required by BOP contracting regulations. 

"I wrote to the BOP to request that they hold a public meeting as soon as possible,"  said Lampson.  "Local officials and area residents must have the opportunity to fully express their views on the proposed halfway house."

Lampson said he hopes to hear from the BOP promptly to further discuss the issue and schedule a town meeting.

Gulf Coast E-news is a publication of Guidry News Service, with offices at 926 Broadway in Galveston and 2500 South Shore Boulevard, Suite C Marina in Clear Lake.  Call (409) 763-NEWS (6397) or (281) 334-NEWS (6397) in the Clear Lake area.  For additional information, or to order a free, one-week complimentary subscription to Gulf Coast E-news, email News@guidrynews.com.