To the Editor:

A few thoughts about events past and present:

In the spring and summer of 2013 two members of the Conservation Commission worked on a committee charged with developing the updated Fairfield Hill Master Plan of 2013. A section of this plan delineated open space at the High and East Meadows (now called the High Meadow). In November of that year both the Board of Selectmen and Planning and Zoning voted to designate the High Meadow as open space. What I remember about that process was that there was overwhelming support for protection of this parcel by Land Use, the Conservation Commission, P&Z, as well as the Board of Select-men.

Yes, recently it was discovered that a required document had not been filed. Fortunately that situation has now been addressed. Nevertheless, the intent of these elected and appointed boards was certainly to maintain the High Meadow as open space.

Fast forward to today and I am gratified to see that a number of organizations and individuals have come forward to support the maintenance of the High Meadow as an undeveloped parcel. Thanks to Newtown Forest Association, the Garden Club of Newtown, and the Horticulture Club for voting to protect this meadow. In addition there are many individuals who have spoken out at meetings and signed petitions in support of preserving the High Meadow. I cannot remember an issue in town when so many organizations took a formal stand for or against a proposed project.

It is apparent to me that Newtown does indeed value its open spaces and many are willing to speak up to voice their concerns.  Therefore, I respectfully ask the Sandy Hook Permanent Memorial Com-mission to develop a plan for a memorial that will reflect the desire of so many to preserve and protect the High Meadow from any development.

Mary Gaudet-Wilson

Former Chairman

Newtown Conservation Commission

12 Whippoorwill Hill, Newtown     April 6, 2016