Letters

There’s been a lot of ink and much finger-pointing lately about perceived “outrage” over the transformation of the Lovelady Powell property in North Haven. Never an adult conversation, just behind-closed-doors emails and Letters to the Editor accusing the village of trampling on Department of Environmental Conservation regulations and permissions. The misinformation makes the Marsden volley of misstated facts look like a quiet church service.

Misinformation, when frequently repeated, tends to form people’s beliefs. Facts are important. This is a good time for facts.

The facts, as presented to the village trustees and residents multiple times over the last year, outline the permissions the DEC allowed going all the way back to last spring. Zoom conferences, emails and conversations with their staff gave the village what we considered a more than adequate green light to proceed, as we did, to remove invasive overgrowth and weeds, with a plan to replace same with native shrubbery. The village employs a very competent environmental consultant who, along with myself and the village clerk, participated in those conversations. We take DEC regulations very seriously.

Voices emerged and questioned why we did not apply for a DEC letter of nonjurisdiction. We did not think one was needed last year, but when the question arose two months ago, we paused all work on the park. We ordered a survey of the 10 acres and, having just received that last week, have requested the DEC to issue their letter. We feel confident that letter is forthcoming. The pause will remain until it is in hand.

A small group of residents would like you to believe there were nefarious deeds committed, and accusations abound. The facts are otherwise. It’s a park. For the community. Meant for walking, reflection, social engagement and the enjoyment of the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Let’s leave the mud on the bottom of the pond.

Chris Fiore

Mayor

North Haven Village