Former Town Councilor David Atwater’s opined in his Aug. 30 letter that “open space does not generate tax revenues,” suggesting that there is too much open space in Groton. Atwater does not consider that open space does not utilize expensive town services such as schools and thus costs the town a fraction of what residential and commercial development does. He misses the point that parks and other open spaces serve to increase property values, the grand list, livability, and desirability of the town. He does not consider the free and valuable ecosystem services provided by those open areas: protection of drinking water, infiltration of storm waters, flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, air purification, nutrient cycling and more instrumentally: mental health, recreational, aesthetic and relaxation benefits, all critical in these stressful times.

Luckily for Groton, current Councilor Portia Bordelon has been a strong proponent of thoughtfully conceived and balanced approaches to development. I served with Bordelon on the RTM and learned that she does her homework, asks insightful questions, and thinks thoughtfully about Groton’s future. I urge Groton residents to vote line B Bordelon in Tuesday's primary.

Syma Ebbin

Groton