To the Journal editor:

Despite my misgivings about affordable housing in Marquette, I attended the city commission public hearings about the Marquette General Hospital redevelopment plans.

I along with numerous other residents, presented our concerns about housing issues that are continuing to worsen.

Often, we heard answers like “I understand your situation, but… or “My heart goes out to you, but… or “I share your concerns, but…”

One speaker asked respectfully that the commission not be patronizing with them, but was treated to more of the same canned platitudes. While I believe the city commission means well, the condescending tone these young citizens were met with rang so empty. And quite tone deaf to their issues.

As a city, we must work together and build trust between people and institutions. That begins with openness. Even if we disagree, truth builds trust and equal footing for negotiations.

It’s OK admit you don’t understand the issues some people face (few things were as disingenuous as watching a man in a designer suede blazer telling a guy in a torn, oil stained t-shirt he understands his economic position).

You don’t have to claim “your heart goes out” to us. If it did, you’d be fighting much harder for a resolution.

You can admit when your priorities are different, or you can’t relate. Because that’s how conversations happen. Conversations bring solutions. Patronizing brings dismissal and dissention.

None of us can afford that now. Talk to us, but like your neighbors. Because that’s who we are and who we are struggling to remain.