Huntington Says White Will Open Local City Halls

Boston's Mayor-elect Kevin H. White will open eleven "neighborhood city halls" during the first months of his administration, Samuel P. Huntington, Frank G. Thompson Professor of Government said yesterday.

The units will handle "communications and complaints" between the city departments and the residents of Boston's distinctive ethnic and racial communities, Huntington said.

Huntington, who is leader of the committee developing plans for the project, said that the centers would encourage neighborhood action. "For example, an organization wishing to clear a vacant lot for a playground could easily reach the mayor's office for assistance through the center," he said.

"We've studied Lindsay's operation in New York quite closely," said Huntingthon. "It's very similar to the one we're developing, except that he's only got four centers open. We expect to improve on that record quite a bit."

It is expected that neighborhood people, either salaried or non-paid, will comprise a majority of the center staffs, he added, although he does envision "a place for the Harvard volunteer."