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Maybe, Just Once

Regarding the statement “We must proceed apart from the SGT and its unethical meddling in our town” in Nona Bloomer’s Jan. 27 letter “Continue to Show Vigilance,” I have lived in this town for over 50 years and I firmly state that Ms. Bloomer does not speak for me. I support the trail. When a member of the opposition asked me to sign their petition, it was made clear that they didn’t oppose the trail, but just wanted more information. I quickly realized the fallacy of that statement and voiced my support for the trail. Speaking of unethical, I wonder how many others were duped into signing the opposition’s petition. Reading the editorials, you would think that the trail would be tantamount to the widening of I-95.

I liken Guilford to a protectionist enclave. I can’t really remember anything that this town has welcomed. A swimming pool? A movie theater? Not in Guilford. Something useful on the Rockpile? No, just a bunch of boutique stores that have not added to the quality of my life. Why spend money on actually doing something when we can just pay for another study? We already pay Jim Portley, who is an excellent town engineer. Get a professional? We have a professional who seems to think the trail will benefit the town.

I have had the opportunity to visit many of the towns in Connecticut. Guilford is nice, but there are a lot of other lovely, historic towns that have done a great job maintaining a balance between growth and preservation. I would love to be able to walk safely to town and would welcome the trail on my street. Instead of opposing everything, maybe, just once, we can welcome a change. What are the selectmen afraid of?

Renee Meskill

Guilford