Greek Community Issues in the Tree Streets Neighborhood

On March 20, 2015, the South Side Neighborhood Organization (SNO) Fraternity Relations Committee (FRC) was contacted for comment concerning the recently imposed five-year suspension of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Lambda Chi Alpha has maintained residency in the Tree Streets neighborhood for many years in various houses.

SNO and the FRC have been in direct communication with East Tennessee State University (ETSU) since 1993 regarding the behavior of the privately owned fraternity houses in the Tree Streets. It should be noted that SNO and the FRC do not necessarily represent the views of the entire neighborhood.

SNO has documented problems with fraternity houses in the Tree Streets neighborhood since 1993. In addition, holdings in the ETSU archives concerning this issue go even further back. Together, these documents outline a continuing dialogue between the neighborhood and the University focused on seeking a solution to this ongoing issue.

ETSU has affirmed that it is continuing to pursue on-campus housing for the fraternities. SNO’s FRC is in support of this effort and is committed to working with them toward a solution even though the FRC feels that little meaningful action has taken place to this point. Relocating fraternities to a campus location can only enhance the college experience and provide an environment for positive and safe mentoring and guidance.

South Side Neighborhood Organization and its Fraternity Relations Committee will do whatever it can to help resolve this ongoing matter. We want what is best for the fraternities, the University, our neighborhood and the City. We have participated in open discussions with all groups in the past and look forward to more in the future. It will take the eyes, ears, voices and ideas of all parties involved to resolve this issue.