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Newtown’s Future

To the Editor:

I recently breathed a sigh of relief upon learning that zoning for a proposed condominium complex on Albert’s Hill Road had not been approved. My relief turned to renewed determination as a second proposed complex on Church Hill Road threatens the tranquility and natural beauty of our area. Out came the “Stop the Condos” sign, joined now by a bumper sticker, meetings attended, petitions signed and zoning meetings on the calendar. I believe wholeheartedly in our ability as concerned citizens of Newtown to thwart these developments as they arise (with some notable exceptions such as those approved on Oakview Road).

I suddenly felt like I was playing the Whack-a-Mole game at an arcade — whack one mole and another one pops up somewhere else. I realized that this type of development potentially affects everyone in Newtown. Every time a subdivision or condo complex is approved in the paradise that is Newtown, a developer’s ears perk up. Soon the very things that make Newtown attractive — natural beauty, wildlife, open space, historic buildings, small town feeling, safety, low traffic volume and uncrowded schools — no longer exist.

Last year, I watched several beautiful wooded acres on a nearby street converted into two large shuttered boxes on bare dirt lots. Meanwhile, down the street stood two similarly sized housed in excellent condition, for sale. I am currently watching the corner of Queen Street and Church Hill Road being converted to a collection of shuttered boxes slated to house yet another bank or drug store or dry cleaners, while across the street stands an abandoned shopping center housing one lone drug store.

Development — yes! Let’s develop what we already have and continue to take Newtown in the direction exemplified by the revitalization of Sandy Hook Village.

Get involved. Read The Bee to find out about upcoming zoning issues and dates of zoning meetings. Attend the public meetings — our bodies count even if we have nothing new to add. Write letters — the zoning commission must read all letters from the public. Help preserve our paradise!

Lynda Weber

25 Albert’s Hill Road, Sandy Hook                             March 22, 2006