The Suffield Observer (https://thesuffieldobserver.com/author/webmaster/page/86/)
Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, the Governor required businesses to suspend in-person operations for all non-essential functions via Executive Order #7J. In a statewide call on Friday, the Governor clarified that the order does not apply to municipalities and municipal CEOs should decide who are essential and non-essential town employees.
The State of Connecticut is coordinating donations of personal protective equipment through the United Way to address current shortages. Donations are being accepted from the general public, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.
At the risk of being overly dramatic, I must say that without a reverse in direction, I fear that our society and democracy are in trouble. Self-interest, greed, hypocrisy, and the desire to beat one’s opponent at any cost seem to carry the day while civility, fair play, and a willingness to compromise are on life support in the public arena.
Recent events ranging from, among others, the problems with the Town Hall renovations, the development of Ffyler Place, the police department’s morale, and the stalled Bridge Street school/community center bring to a head the realization that complex problems face even a small town such as Suffield and that expertise in the area of public administration is needed.
The dust is settled now on your failed proposal to move the Town Highway Garage and “develop” Ffyler Place. You are quoted in the JI (Jan.29) as saying that “… it appears that Suffield residents believe the highway garage should stay where it is – and aren’t interested in economic development.”
350th Anniversary Committee
Wed., Mar. 4
Mon., Mar. 23
7 p.m., Police Station
Following a few days of feeling unwell and unproductive, I asked the Observer to extend my October 15 deadline for the November issue. Ever gracious, the Editor invited me to take a few days off.
