Dear Lincoln Talk, I’m writing in response to the recent emails shared on this topic. I hope this message offers a respectful perspective from another side of the conversation and that it will be approved and posted by the moderators.
I ask you please to *vote NO* on the proposed community center project - not only because of the cost, but because of the *impact it could have on the LEAP program and our town’s children.* *LEAP and a Senior Center Should Not Share the Same Space (on a daily basis)* While I have the deepest respect and honor for our senior residents, placing a children’s program in the same building as a senior center is not beneficial to either group. Just imagine the daily scene: young children full of energy, running around, playing freely. This is exactly what a joyful, healthy childhood should look like. However, this level of activity may be overwhelming and even frustrating for some seniors. Conversely, LEAP staff and children may feel constrained, having to “tone things down” to accommodate the quiet needs of elderly participants. It would no longer be a child-centered space, and this shift could negatively impact both sides. I truly wish these two populations could thrive together in the same space, but experience has shown that this is not a sustainable solution for daily, long-term use. *Safety and Environment Matter* The current LEAP setting - peacefully nestled away from traffic and surrounded by nature - offers a secure, developmentally appropriate space for young children. Adding a community center shared with adults, a busy parking lot, and regular town activity introduces safety concerns and disrupts the calm, nurturing environment these children rely on. *There Is a Simple, Practical Solution* Instead of relocating and then rebuilding LEAP as part of the community center, why not *renovate the existing pods over the summer*? This preserves everything that already works so well and is beloved by families and staff, without compromising safety or learning. *A Community Center Can and Should Be Built Elsewhere* I fully support creating a community center, just *not on school grounds*. Let’s keep this area dedicated to our children’s education and well-being. We can explore other locations that better serve the broader community without negatively impacting either population. *I know these points have been discussed in the past, but I believe this is an opportunity to take a fresh look and get a ‘second opinion’ before moving forward. * LEAP is a thriving and popular program that continues to grow each year. One of its greatest strengths is the beautiful, spacious environment it currently enjoys - designed to meet the expanding needs of its students. I’m not sure the proposed new plan preserves that same open layout and generous space, which has been such a vital part of the program’s success. Please help protect our youngest learners by voting *NO* on this proposal. Thank you.
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