To The Editor:The Bee editor, SHPMC commissioners expressed disappointment and disgust about public opposition to planned memorial development in the High Meadow open space.

At the 05/12 SHPMC (Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial Commission) meeting and again in a recent letter to

In their disappointment, they mischaracterized those who expressed opposition as being insensitive, uncompromising, and worse. In fact, alternate memorial ideas and locations respectfully offered by the public did not generate any response by the SHPMC except to move forward with more High Meadow development proposals. During the past year, focus was exclusively on the High Meadow despite residents' civil and polite legal, environmental, and municipal concerns. It wasn't until the first selectman wrote the commission to encourage pursuit of an alternate location that the High Meadow was conditionally removed from consideration.

On 5/12, the SHPMC listed all the hard work they've done, and it was considerable. They listed all the people of like minds that they've consulted, and there were many. They listed all those officials and boards who they felt should review and comment on future documents, but despite the experience of the past year, the commission never mentioned the public's right to review and comment before a decision is final.

A mural at Newtown High School was covered because it distressed people; the "Rock of Ages" memorial was placed on St John's Episcopal Church property because a place on town property could not be found; the Newtown community center plans were revised because of public objections. These are examples where officials and the public disagreed, but worked together and changed existing plans. Yes, it was hard. Yes, it took time. Taking time to work hard together is what is needed here, too.

Improving inclusiveness, welcoming idea exchange, and sharing information are within reach. Let's move forward, together.

Respectfully,

Ann Astarita

Citizens for Public Commons

PO Box 3552, Newtown May 23, 2016