I am writing with deep concern about the effect the Village Center Overlay District discussion has had on civic life in Newton. In my opinion, it is simply sucking the oxygen out of the city and the current City Council.
My greatest concern is the growing anger that is now infecting the broader community. Drive through Newton — lawn signs advocate for or against every imaginable issue — and the goal for each side of each issue is singular. So my question is this: Have we as a city lost the ability to compromise? Have we lost any interest in getting to Yes?
How divisive has it gotten? Many residents have told me that they plan to vote in the upcoming election based on a single vote that individual Councilors will take in the coming weeks, despite their hard work on a wide range of issues. Our City Councilors are talented people who bring different perspectives and knowledge to the table. This city needs to see them use their talents to make Newton a better city for all residents in an uncertain future. Right now, though the Councilors put many hours into serving the city, very few residents hear about or see the outcome of their work, other than what their position is on this one issue.
I understand that the Zoning and Planning Committee must continue its work in the future, but other essential issues must be addressed with the same level of energy. I urge the City Council to make compromises to this plan in an effort to get to Yes, then vote on the plan so it can move forward to address the full range of pressing issues in the city.
Jane Frantz