To the editor:

Newburyport has had a positive and progressive history of recognizing and addressing the needs of its community constituents. From the investments in the school system with the proper education resources and effective facilities; with the need to preserve, expand and protect the waterfront for the residents enjoyment, success of downtown businesses and to attract visitors; with building a new harbormaster facility and boardwalk amenities to support boat owner's needs; with the building of the Senior/Community Center to consolidate senior services and provide a central location for expanded programs for the entire community; with a brand new West End fire station; with the significant investments in upgrading streets/sidewalks for added safety; and with affordable housing.

These actions and decisions have not been easy, but the community leaders, City Council members, and residents rose to the challenge and supported these investments.

Prior to 2015, seniors of this community were faced with a similar situation with programs scattered in many different locations of the city…. in church basements, in the Salvation Army building, in storage areas of municipal buildings. But after many options and proposals were explored, the current location was agreed upon and the idea of consolidating all the senior services in one building was achieved. And to maximize the investment and use of the building it became a Senior/Community Center, a vibrant and very active facility.

We are now faced with a very similar situation with our community's youth constituency ….citizens and leaders of tomorrow.

The center and the consolidation and quality of the programs being offered has become the envy of other communities. It has become a go-to place to socialize, to have a cup of coffee, to read a book/newspaper, to meet friends, to exercise, to learn and to have fun …. In a nutshell, it has increased the quality of senior life significantly. This investment is being paid for by all property owners of all ages. So, it's time for seniors and others in the community to do the same for our youth. The tax increase to cover this investment is very reasonable and for most seniors is less than $40.

So, as we have made very responsible decisions to support previous projects, so let's step up and do the same for the Recreation and Youth Center. My vote is yes — the responsible thing to do, now.

BEN IACONO

Newburyport