To the Editor:

Fact or fiction? If Wharton truly doesn't know who their perspective buyer or lessee might be, how can they possibly attest to the volume of traffic in and out of their potential property?

Once turned over, neither they nor the people of Newtown have any control over the scope and usage of the proposed facility. Wharton assures us that traffic will be moderate. Why, then, are they planning to build 55 tractor trailer bays plus 50 parking spaces for such trucks? We must assume maximum usage of what they are spending millions of dollars to build.

They show us plans, photos and other fiction to distract us, like a magician, from the impact of their project on our environment, health, and traffic.

On the other hand, concerned citizens of Newtown who love our community and quality of life have provided facts. We have quoted experts in their fields, cited highly respected press, as well as health organizations to prove that a truck hub will have deadly, life-threatening impact on our health and disastrous effects on street traffic and land. We have shared actual, scientific data. Our streets are already clogged with too many vehicles, and we all know what noise that many trucks will generate.

Don't tell me that the noise from these additional tractor trailers will simply blend in and not be heard. This proposal will cripple our town, slowing down emergency vehicles, school busses as well as other vehicular traffic and change the quality of our lives forever.

Why would P&Z do this to our town? How could you do this to Newtown? Surely the minimal if any financial gain suggested cannot be worth the potential devastation. In fact I would be willing to pay higher taxes to avoid bringing this monster into our lives. And I believe this proposal has put the kibosh on real estate sales.

Dear members of the P&Z Board, please use compassion, common sense and thoughtfulness in making your decision. Vote to represent the voices you've heard at your meetings. Show a genuine concern for the people of Newtown and don't be swayed by the empty promise of minimal financial gain. It just isn't worth it!

Recognize the truth and the facts, not the fiction!

Beth Holland

Newtown