Worcester, MA – Representative John P. Fresolo (16th Worcester District) publicly announced his opposition to the proposed site of a new Dismas House facility.  The program, to be located at 50 Arthur Street, would be in close proximity to the Worcester East Middle School.  Although Rep. Fresolo has in the past lent his support for the services provided by the Dismas House, his opposition to the current proposal comes from heightened concern with the facility’s location.

The Dismas House is a program that provides housing and services to former prisoners seeking to improve their lives post-incarceration.  The program allows for men and women to be housed together, work together, and contribute to one another’s support structure as they battle addictions.  In accordance to their literature, residents are asked to abide by a no violence, drugs or alcohol policy.

However, Rep. Fresolo has concerns as to the proposed location of the Dismas House.  Rep. Fresolo stated, “I not only have supported the Dismas House and its mission in the past, but I continue to lend my support by co-sponsoring funding amendments for Dismas House in the FY08 budget.  My opposition to the proposed Dismas House is solely based on its close proximity to the Worcester East Middle School.  I am not opposed to the relocation of a Dismas House elsewhere in my district.  My strong opposition comes from a feeling that we are creating a potentially undesirable situation of children and former incarcerated prisoners interacting with one another in a confined area.  I am simply requesting reconsideration of the Arthur Street location for a more suitable environment.”

Public safety is also a concern of Rep. Fresolo.  “We also must consider the impact on public safety the Dismas House may cause.  A good portion of the community policing funding I secure each year for specific areas of my district are allocated for foot patrols in the Arthur Street neighborhood.  The presence of a Dismas House, coupled with the Middle School, and compounded by the present public safety issues, would exacerbate the efforts of the neighbors and Worcester Police to create a safe environment,” said Rep. Fresolo.

Rep. Fresolo has met with Dismas House officials and spoken with concerned residents regarding the placement of the sober program.  Fresolo said that although both sides had legitimate points and concerns regarding the program, ultimately the decision to oppose the Dismas House was due to its close proximity to a school.