To The Editor:

In the May 6 issue of The Bee, chairman of the Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial Commission (SHPMC) Kyle Lyddy is quoted as saying, "Those against the memorial location say it's 'all or nothing'. There's not compromise. And that's sad, as we continue to pick apart and try to make decisions that will potentially in the end, better the property."

Taking open space such as High Meadow and adding roads, paths, surfaces, and drainage does not better the property. Leaving it as open space is the best option for the plants, animals, and property in general.

The Bee article stated that the commission's current High Meadow plan is considered Option G. That means that the commission has looked at seven different scenarios (Options A-G) of placing a memorial at High Meadow. Why are they fixated on that one piece of property? Why haven't the people of New-town heard about options for any other piece of property in Newtown?

The commission needs to return to the drawing board and look at other properties that would be more appropriate. A less environmentally sensitive location at Fairfield Hills may be a good choice. Perhaps the memorial could be located near the Catherine Hubbard Animal Sanctuary on Old Farm Road or at the Orchard Hill Nature Center. There are other town-owned pieces of property. Perhaps a spot near the road frontage would be suitable. The Newtown Forest Association lists over 20 properties on their website, is there a possibility that the memorial could be located on the edge of one of these tracts of land? Land that is near water with its peaceful sounds may be desirable.

A place other than High Meadow is the right place for the Sandy Hook Memorial.

Terri Murphy

105 Currituck Road, Newtown May 18, 2016