Preserving Green Space Preserves Our Town

I chose to live in Cumberland partly because of the open spaces and hiking trails. I was motivated to run for Town Council to ensure that we continue to protect these beautiful places.

As the campaign has continued, multiple independent candidates have made the claim that some of these areas, specifically land at Mercy Woods and the High Rock Preserve and Scott Brook, should be developed. I disagree with this approach. We should disagree. Part of good governance is bringing people together with different ideas, so we can work with the public and our peers to develop the best solutions for our Town. I'd like to explain why I think it's important to protect these spaces.

First of all, these preserves are used extensively by people of all ages. Open space is not necessarily unused space.

Secondly, devloping open space that contains wetlands and large rock formations is incredibly expensive. The town is already in the midst of revitalizing two parks and many of our schools. We need to complete existing projects before we begin new projects.

Lastly, when we talk about creating or enhancing recreational facilities, we need to consider all families and residents. Mercy Woods is quite far from the rest of Cumberland, and placing a large recreational facility there would mean that parents and children in other parts of Town would have to add up tp 30 minutes each way to get there. I am always in favor of exploring more options for improving the town and getting people of all ages out to enjoy being outside. However, I think any major development needs to take into consideration the impact on the environment, the cost to taxpayers, and accessibility for all residents, not just those in the northernmost parts of town.

To prove to voters how committed I am to these ideas, I have attended Town Council meetings and subcommittee meetings as well as the Land Trust annual meeting, where a very knowledgeable arborist spoke to us. I've listened to voters who answered the door when I knocked and those who have called me to share their thoughts. If you have any question about my position on protecting the green spaces that set us apart from so many of our neighboring communities, please feel free to reach out here or even by phone at 401-408-5937.

Hiking at the High Rock Preserve & Scott Brook trails earlier this week.