Good Neighbor seeks to improve student-city relations
- Aug. 19, 2012
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Maintaining a healthy coexistence with neighbors can be a challenge, especially between University of Kansas students and permanent Lawrence residents.
The Good Neighbor program, created in unison by the University and the city, aims to strengthen relations between students and residents by providing students with information about good citizenship.
The initiative kicked off Thursday with about a hundred volunteers from six fraternities canvassing the Oread neighborhood with welcome bags. Volunteers, paired with city representatives, placed 2,000 bags on doorsteps with city ordinance information ranging from bike parking and house party protocol.
“A big part of going to school is learning how to live on your own,” said Joe Monaco, a spokesperson for the event. “We are providing just some basic information about how to be polite, courteous, productive citizens in a community.”
Students can easily assume Lawrence has similar ordinances and policies as their hometowns, Monaco said.
Brad Hess, a freshman from Wichita and Delta Upsilon Fraternity program volunteer, said he was impressed by the University’s initiative.
“People really care more here,” Hess said. “It makes me feel good. It just makes me feel safer and it feels nice to be joining that community.”
The Good Neighbor program is the first to fortify the University’s connection with the city.
“This is the first in a set of many steps,” said Tim Caboni, vice chancellor for public affairs at the University and a Good Neighbor cocreator. “We are extending an olive branch today, but it does not end here.”
While no immediate events are planned for the future, Monaco said the University will continue the initiative throughout the year with various events and activities. Good Neighbor information, including student’s rights and resources, is also available at www.studentaffairs.ku.edu/goodneighbor
Trying to be more neighborly? Follow the advice of the Good Neighbor program.
- Notify neighbors before throwing a party. They’ll appreciate you cluing them in.
- Do not park in the yard or in front of fire hydrants or driveways. Doing so can result in a fine.
- Pets need to be kept on a leash within the city.
- Sidewalks need to be clear of ice or snow within 24 hours.
- Bicycles cannot be locked to trees or other non-designated structures.
- Lock all windows and doors, including your car’s, and keep electronics and valuables out of view. Call Lawrence police if you see something suspicious.
—Source: Good Neighbor program
— Edited by Joanna Hlavacek
