To The Editor:

As Newtown looks forward to the next steps in the process of finding common ground regarding the Community Center perhaps it would be good to take a deep breath and ask ourselves some key questions.

What is the vision and mission of this project?

How do we make the decision making more inclusive, guided by an advisory committee more reflective of the community at large?

Would it be more productive for the community to accept this endeavor in just one phase, rather than a two or three-step phase?

How does the town insure that there is a level of sustainability incorporated into the operating expenses of the community center?

If Newtown NYA is part of the plan, do we know what the appraisal of the property is and can the town actually afford the purchase?

Will the community be kept apprised of all financial planning and spending on this project?

Over the past few months we have taken some time to look into the decision making and outcomes of several towns, such as Scarsdale, NY and Easton CT. One of the key things we found helpful with the Scarsdale plan is that they made a preliminary decision to hire an architect based on the following: the architects don’t tell their clients what they want to hear, rather they provide their honest assessment. Additionally, there is an online financial presentation with line items for every expenditure.

As for Easton, they have a vibrant community center as well as a separate senior center with both unique centers offering programs with variety for everyone. Another example of a community center we visited is in Port Jefferson, a facility with lots of open gathering space, as well as rooms for many purposes, including rentals for events that subsidize their operating expenses. The day we were there many townspeople were skating on the ice rink or reading, conversing or playing games in the common area it was a great mix of young children, teens, seniors, and everybody in between. Different towns, different visions, but serving their communities well.

There is no doubt that we can and will do the best for the residents of Newtown and find that common ground we all desire.

Respectfully,

Geraldine and Ross Carley

66 Currituck Road, Newtown                                           April 3, 2015