I am a 59-year-old veteran living at Liberty Heights in Mandan.

Some policies have been changed recently with an addendum to our lease signed under the threat of eviction.

As of December 2009, new residents must be smoke-free. Current residents have until July 1, or they will be evicted. Smoking should be a personal decision, not added to your lease stating you must be 5 feet from your apartment.

Damage to walls and carpet were given as reasons. Any damage by current residents would already be done.

Also regarding pets – we cannot have any, except for fish in a 40-gallon tank or less, and with a note from your doctor stating a pet is therapeutic. Some people are allowed pets. Visitors cannot brings pets or stay over with pets, under threat of conviction.

Liberty Heights attorneys have ruled these changes to be lawful.

I do not believe that this is a legal issue, but rather one of human rights. Any letters or calls to Liberty Heights management would be appreciated.

Douglas Willoughby, Mandan