Auburn CITIZEN

October 23, 2000

Park idea became power struggle

To the citizens of the town of Ledyard: I would like to thank all the residents of the town that came out in support of the proposed Ledyard town park. I believe all of us were disappointed the referendum was defeated.

I feel the park was defeated for a variety of reasons having nothing to do with the establishment of a park. The proposal became a power struggle between different factions within the town.

Viewed honestly, it was never really about a park. It was about Republicans vs. Democrats, boys vs. girls, haves vs. have-nots. The haves won the battle.

The unfortunate victims were a picnic area, playing fields, and a swim area for the town.

This is truly a tragic loss and was a highly inappropriate issue around which to stage the battle.

My sincere apologies to the town of Ledyard for not having been able to make this happen for you.

Sylvia Hurlbut

Aurora

Hurlbut is Ledyard supervisor.