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ROSA Update - August 9,2001

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Last night, the Town Meeting voted overwhelmingly to create an Economic Development Commission under the Connecticut General Statutes. As you know, this is an important step towards the acquisition of the entire 613-acre Bennett's Pond property in Ridgefield.

In addition to overseeing economic development throughout Ridgefield, the EDC will establish a development authority for the 155-acre southern parcel of Bennett's Pond, in conjunction with the acquisition of the entire parcel. The northern parcel (458 acres) will be acquired for open space, recreation or other municipal purposes.

About 100 ROSA supporters came out to vote in favor of the resolution to establish the EDC, and there were only 2 votes against the resolution. We thank those of you who came out last night - this was one of several hurtles which still lie ahead.

The tentative schedule leading up to the referendum is as follows:

• Wednesday, August 29 - Land acquisition public hearing
• Saturday, September 8 or September 15 - Special Saturday morning public hearing
• Wednesday, September 12 - Town meeting to vote & set date for referendum
• Tuesday, September 25 - REFERENDUM
  

We will keep you posted as to changes in the above schedule, and provide times and locations as they are determined.

Last night, Selectman Joseph Heyman (who unfortunately petitioned his way onto the November ballot) vowed to personally fight against the acquisition of the property, and Board of Selectman candidate A.J. DiMattia showed his hand in a rambling statement questioning the Board's motives in creating the EDC. Clearly, the November election campaign will play a significant role in outcome of the referendum.

It is imperative that open space advocates come out in large numbers for each of these meetings, and of course, for the referendum on September 25th. We thank you again for your continued support - we're counting on you for the remainder of this important struggle for the future of our town!

Ellen Burns
ROSA