To the Editor:

I disagree with several of Madeline Bunt’s statements in The Newtown Bee article regarding UConn Extension. I have been a Master Gardener since 2017 and have taken classes and volunteered on the Stony Hill Property since that time.

I disagree with Bunt’s statement that the grounds had become “run down terribly.” I question her statement that the vote to bifurcate was unanimous. In the FCAEC May 2017 meeting minutes, there is a brief statement suggesting the property be transferred to a new 501 (c) (3) nonprofit entity and that the motion passed unanimously. It is strange that such significant action was not discussed at greater length to assure all board members could voice their concerns.

Bunt states that there were no restrictions on the land deed requiring the FCAEC or any other organization to keep the extension on the property. The FCAEC was formed to support Extension. The FCAEC charter is the basis of the relationship between FCAEC and UConn Extension, in place since the 1950s, and reads:

Section 1 – To advise and support the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service staff in the development and implementation of educational programs in agriculture, parenting and family planning, youth development, financial management and other Cooperative Extension programs.

Section 2 – To maintain and develop the grounds and building at 67-69 Stony Hill Road to complement the Cooperative Extension programs and goals.

I believe Bunt’s comment that “Our relationship with UConn is that they are our tenants,” is not consistent with the relationship that existed and still exists between FCAEC and UConn. Shortly after the transfer, I understand the Assistant Director of UConn Extension expressed concern to SHP about the new relationship between SHP and Extension.

John DiNoto, one of the SHP board members, responded in an e-mail dated December 4, 2017 that “SHP has no plan to curtail or diminish support for UConn.” In another e-mail dated August 7, 2017, from the UConn liaison to FCAEC to the Assistant Director, the liaison states that, “I reminded them that the land was given to the Council in support of Extension and we hope the new entity would obey the spirit of the gift by having the bylaws and the articles of incorporation legally reflect that. They assured me they wanted to support Extension.”

Bunt stated that the lease termination is a matter between SHP and UConn, not the master gardeners. The Master Gardener program is part of Extension and maintains a significant Demonstration Garden on the property so we do have a stake in this issue.

Bunt claims incorrect information is being circulated but she is not transparent about the reason for the lease termination. She should be forthcoming with her reasons for her actions. She says it is “disheartening to have people attack us and the volunteers.”

We have not made any statements regarding volunteers. We are asking for transparency from SHP and return of the Stony Hill property to FCAEC so Extension programs may continue to serve the public.

Andrea Sarnik

Certified UConn Advanced Master Gardener

Newtown