To the editor:

In a recent letter to the editor, the Ward 5 city councilor wrote, "It's OK to vote no (April 9, 2025, Daily News of Newburyport).

I'd like to offer a different perspective: it's more than OK to vote YES.

Since the Brown School closed in 2021, Newburyport lost access to its only city-owned public gym and the dedicated space for Recreation and Youth Services (RYS). While the RYS team has done incredible work keeping programs alive through creativity and partnerships, the lack of a stable, purpose-built home has limited what's possible, especially for the kids and families who rely on these programs most.

The councilor asks, "What are we getting for $8.3 million?" The answer is a permanent home for RYS, expanded program capacity, and a shared third space for residents of all ages. It is a public gathering place, open year-round, that will strengthen our community for decades to come.

The councilor also writes, "The site has 23 spaces … morning hours will be limited to 12 families." While parking is a consideration, it should not be a limiting factor. The location is easily accessible by foot and bike, and public transportation options, such as the MEVA bus route, also provide convenient access. If needed, there are potential overflow options in nearby lots. The Planning Board has fully vetted this design, including the parking considerations, and approved it after thorough review.

On the gym size, the letter says, "To alleviate pressures on gym space, it would need to be closer to 6,600-square-feet." But increasing the footprint would also increase the cost, which the councilor opposes elsewhere in the same letter. The current plan strikes a balance between usability and affordability. It creates a new space for RYS programming that will no longer be dependent on outside rentals, ensuring consistent and reliable access to the space, something we haven't had since the Brown School closed.

Finally, the councilor notes, "Middle school students … have the lowest enrollment in seven years." That is exactly why this investment matters. Declining participation often stems from limited and inconsistent programming. This center would change that by giving RYS the consistency and flexibility to re-engage middle schoolers and support future growth.

Voting yes does not mean ignoring trade-offs. It means choosing long-term value, stable youth programming, and a space where our entire community can come together.

Let's vote yes on May 13.

LISA MEDINA SMITH

Newburyport

Newburyport Daily News, April 10, 2025