Congressman DeFazio
Coos Bay Office
Coos Bay Oregon

Dear Congressman;

     Recently we started a Coos County Vocational Program for
Developmentally Disabled Adults. The intent of the program is to develop
and blend employment opportunities and community integration activities.
To facilitate this goal we decided to locate in the downtown area of Coos
Bay. We have received many favorable reactions to this endeavor.
However, one person seems adamant that "these kinds of persons do not
belong in the downtown area". Following up the first phone call, this
person said he would work with the Downtown Association to find us an 
"appropriate place:. The person creating this problem is a property owner
of several buildings and an influence in the downtown areas being the
president of the Downtown Association.

      We feel that this is an infringement on the rights of our clients. Our 
understanding is that the American Disabilities Act was enacted partially to 
stymie this kind of discrimination.  How do we proceed to address this
problem? To whom do we talk?

      Any assistance you can give us will be appreciated.

                               Sincerely,


                             William A. Doerr
                         Chief Executive Officer
01-03010