I am writing in response to derogatory remarks expressed at a recent selectmen’s meeting concerning the Center on the Common (CoC), including one I found especially offensive.
Under CoC leadership, the decrepit former library had its boiler replaced, electric service upgraded, roof leak repaired, and mold-infested carpet torn out. Yes, the town paid for those repairs, but without CoC’s leadership and determination in bringing those changes to fruition, the old library would still be moldering in its own decay.
The CoC hosted world-class musicians; displayed and sold thousands of dollars of locally created artwork; provided art, dance, music, video, and photography classes; and centered gatherings around food, people, and conversation. It elevated and enhanced our community and should be acclaimed, not castigated.
After a very successful 2013, the CoC struggled financially in 2014 and, months in advance of its demise, informed the selectmen and Town Administrator Tim Bragan that it was unable to pay its rent and utilities. For the selectmen to act as if they were blindsided by this information is just not true.
Unfortunately, the CoC’s insurance policy also lapsed, exposing the town to liability risks. Operating without insurance was irresponsible, and the selectmen are right to be upset. They are not right, however, to vilify the CoC as did Chairman Ron Ricci. In response to an abutter’s complaint that CoC events generated disruptive noise and attendees treated his property disrespectfully, Mr. Ricci commented, “What you are saying is they were awful, rotten neighbors.”
Mr. Ricci didn’t know if the resident’s concerns had been communicated to the CoC, nor did he have knowledge of any efforts it made to resolve the problem. Nor did he note CoC’s strict policy of ending events at a responsible hour, or Director Bob Hubert’s oft-repeated requests to be mindful of the neighbors. Mr. Ricci should be careful not to cut himself on that ax he’s grinding.
If our “leaders” could look up from their ideological agendas long enough to recognize the enormous value a community center provides, then maybe we could actually become the vibrant, engaging town our founders envisioned.
Keith Turner
Littleton County Road
