To the Editor:

I am writing in support of the Community Center referendum scheduled for April 5, 6 am to 8 pm, at the Newtown Middle School. I believe this is an opportunity for us to make a positive difference for our community - through the generosity and kindness of the GE Corporation and all those persons in New-town who are, or were, GE employees.

The proposal we are considering puts forth a facility with two significant features. First among those features: flexible, programmable space for general community use. Many times in the committee deliberations and public forums residents called out for more programs and better spaces for cultural arts, for seniors, for teens, for families, and for organizations. This new center would begin to address the need for space and programs, and more importantly, would be resourced at a high level with the operational fund GE is providing.  The $1 million annual contribution from GE provides unprecedented access to high level programming - sustainable, well resourced, with dedicated and professional staff.

The second feature of the NCCC proposal calls for an aquatics component comprised of two pools, a zero-entry pool and a multipurpose 50-meter pool.  The committee discussions and decisions around the multipurpose pool have been focused on the revenue potential of this feature to offset costs of the operation of the facility - so that the five-year annual gift of $1 million from GE will last for a long, long time.

In crafting this proposal, the committee charged by the Board of Selectmen mounted an unprecedented outreach campaign. Surveys with 3,200 responses, contact with dozens of local organizations, public forums, social media and public presentations combined to inform the final outcome.  I believe that it is time for us to make good on our relationship with GE. We have been treated honorably and with patience for the pace of our deliberative process.  The corporation knows and fully understands that we have needed to take time necessary for full community engagement in the discussion and decision-making.

We are at that time, now, when a decision should be made. I believe the decision should be "Yes," that this project proposal does honor the donor's intent and adds value to our community too, never forget-ting that we come to this decision humbled by the knowledge that it is borne of a horrible tragedy.

E. Patricia Llodra

90 Riverside Road, Sandy Hook     March 30, 2016