To the Editor:
I expect by now that most Easton residents will have opened their mailboxes to find the usual provoking and contentious “VOTE NO” mail cards full of exaggerated, false and “doom & gloom” predictions about the new EMS Project. As Director of the Easton Senior Center, I try not to become too involved in certain aspects of town life, but this issue has made me incredibly upset that a very small group of residents have set out to oppose something that will greatly benefit everyone in our community. So here are my opinions. I hope they are of some interest and express my support of this cause.
- I usually find without exception that building committees are hard-working, dedicated and meticulous. The present group is no exception. I believe that “leaders” are those that “build-up” a community and try to avoid, at any cost, “tearing down” forward-looking projects and building plans.
- If any Easton project is determined by the Board of Finance to be inappropriate, protocol would suggest that they would not recommend it to a town meeting for a vote. They are fair and efficient in their work.
- Common sense would also suggest that a new EMS building should be planned by those who will use it or have satisfactorily done so for many years. No one would live in an old building for so long under wretched circumstances and plan to make the new one worse!
- All builders will warn you that delay only encourages higher costs or possibly discontinuation.
- It is always difficult to know we have to face facts and move to complete a project when life is expensive enough. I am a senior and definitely do not want to incur more expense. However, somehow, we need to continue to provide safe, careful and necessary services, especially for seniors. Somehow the town has to find a way to do the right thing.
- I have lived in Easton for over 50 years. We do not need to have friction and conflict when the necessary has to be achieved. During my time, the EMS cared so many times (before he died) in a loving way for my husband. I benefitted also from their services as well.
- However, the issue is not only important for seniors but for newcomers with young families and children. I remember the day that my grandson was scalded with coffee. EMS transported him so quickly and with great care to Bridgeport Hospital to the burn unit. That’s why we have become and strive to be a forward-looking community.
- Easton looks to its own. The town just voted to continue a generous Tax Relief for the Elderly Program. Each section of our community would support special projects like our EMS.
I cannot tell you how to vote, but I will stress just how wonderful it will be to work and grow with them in their new building. They are an integral part of the community. No more negatives. We need to work together with a positive attitude towards the future.
Val Buckley
Easton Senior Center Director
