To the editor:
Although I understood the concerns of both sides on the recent Rural Edge controversy, I was in favor of this nonprofit organization’s proposal. It seemed to address the needs for affordable housing in Greensboro and provided a way to fund the extensive repairs that the Town Hall will require for future use.
That said, I am still pleased to live in a democracy here in Greensboro, so I accept the outcome of the recent vote: 147 yes and 227 no. I do wonder, however, how the 318 registered Greensboro voters who did not return the ballots mailed to them (at the cost to the town of $232.14) feel on this issue. To me, 227 votes out of 692 (32%) does not represent a mandate.
Of more concern, though, is what happens next. I will be attending the select board meeting on May 14. I sincerely hope that many of the 227 voters who said no to the Rural Edge proposal will also attend that meeting, or at least one of the planning commission meetings, so their voices can be heard as our town explores other solutions. Just saying no will not solve our problems.
The last figure I heard for the cost of the repairs and renovations the town hall needs was $1,000,000. Given the new tariffs and the decrease in funding for nonprofits (which I believe includes funds for historic preservation), this number will most likely be higher. Currently, there is no heat on the third floor and no elevator. Public buildings need to be accessible to everyone. Who is going to pay for these repairs and renovations? Greensboro taxpayers?
I encourage everyone to take part in the work before us, or the town hall will crumble before all of our eyes.
Stefanie Ayers Cravedi
Greensboro
Stefanie Cravedi
Chair, The Hardwick Gazette Board
