To the Editor:

On behalf of the Borough I would like to thank the Draper Family for their most generous gift. Shortly after 12/14, Dr Draper approached me and indicated that his family was interested in making a significant contribution to connect the Main Street sidewalks down Church Hill Road to the Sandy Hook Center.  I was more than happy to assist, as it was a wonderful idea. Full disclosure – I have long been a Dr Draper (and Dr Grossman…your old Main Street house is doing fine) fan. As the movie goes … “you (Doc Draper) had me at hello.”  And, to borrow from the late Paul Harvey, allow me to tell you “the rest of the story.”

Dr Draper and Borough Senior Burgess Jay Maher, with the support of Borough residents and the Board of Burgesses, are two of the most significant reasons why the Borough sidewalks exist. Some 15 years ago Jay Maher shared the idea to expand sidewalks down Church Hill, Queen Street and Glover Avenue. (Main Street sidewalks would undergo a ten-year restoration project that continues today.) Legislative Council approval was required for some additional funding beyond the Borough’s contribution. The then Finance Subcommittee of the Legislative Council barely approved it 2-1.

At Jay’s request, Dr Draper, a long time sidewalk supporter appeared before the Legislative Council and elegantly testified as to the public safety and health benefits of the sidewalk project. It passed. Jay voluntarily oversaw the project on behalf of the Borough. Today he continues to voluntarily oversee the Borough sidewalks, including the Church Hill project. This has been a long desired project he has prioritized. Unfortunately the costs were well beyond the means of the Borough budget.  Again, we are extremely grateful to the Draper Family. And, it is wonderful to see how the world goes round, Dr Draper, and Jay Maher on sidewalks.

Thank you again to Dr Draper, the Draper family, Jay Maher, and all who work tirelessly and voluntarily to make Newtown Nicer!

Sincerely,

Jim Gaston, Sr.

Warden, Borough of Newtown

18 Main Street, Newtown                 September 17, 2014