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October 21, 1996 Page 2 Now, to other issues that I understand have been raised: 1. Trees along the river. We have no plans to disturb the natural order of things along the riverside. This means we will not cut down the trees or other foliage. We have actually planted more trees, bushes and shrubs. 2. Lighting. We do need to have some exterior lighting, after all, this is a treatment facility. We have in order to reduce lighting glare, installed 40 - watt bulbs in the exterior outlets. That illumination is low, and shouldn't be too bright. 3. Noise. We have attempted to more fully and completely understand the noise problem. We have asked our architects, contractors, sub- contractors, manufacturer and now, the City again, to listen for the "disturbing" noise. At this point, I am advised that the equipment at Madison Center for Children is properly working and that it is making only the usual and customary sound associated with its operation. We have asked the City to inspect this equipment again to determine if it is unusually loud. We will correct it in any way possible if it is found to be outside normal expectations. 4. Loud speakers. We have no plans to install an external sound system. Finally, I believe you should be advised that Madison Center has granted an easement along the river to the City of South Bend. This has been granted on all property the Center owns on the river. It is our understanding that the City plans to continue the East Race walkway along the river. This walkway currently stops behind the original Madison Center building. The East Race walkway is designed to enhance the river front as a focal point for all citizens. I am not aware of what the city's construction plans entail and I do not know when this project will be done. Through the years Madison Center has expended more than $25 million dollars in property acquisition, old building removal, and construction of new facilities, while at the same time we have tried to preserve the beauty of the river. I regret that you do not appreciate our improvements; however, we know that they are appropriate for this property. This * morning, at our request, we met with Ms. Ann -Carol Simons, Assistant City Attorney, to express our willingness to cooperate with the city on these matters If I may answer other concerns, please feel free to contact me for a meeting by phoning my office directly at 283-1116. Respectfully yours, ack Roberts Executive Director