To the editor:

Since 2021, Newburyport Recreation and Youth Services has been without a permanent home. I ran for office because watching the City Council repeatedly kick the can down the road on this issue was deeply frustrating. Thankfully, after years of hard work, we are finally at a turning point.

This project is one of the most thoroughly vetted in Newburyport's history. Dozens of public meetings have been held. A full schematic design, cost estimate, and construction documents were completed. The Council even voted to rezone 59 Low Street specifically to allow for a community center on that site.

Yet, some councilors now claim the gym is too small—while also saying the overall cost is too high. You can't have it both ways. Others argue there are more pressing priorities. But in municipal government, there will always be competing needs. This is why the Council has put the decision where it belongs: in the hands of Newburyport voters.

Importantly, no additional city funds will be used to construct the rec center. The project will be funded by a debt exclusion. I did the math for my household. After factoring in the high school renovation debt that's set to expire this year, our net tax increase will be just $16 annually—about $1.33 per month. You can check your own numbers using the tax calculator on the city's website.

My husband and I don't have children, but we understand the value of investing in our community's future. Children deserve a safe, welcoming place to play, learn, and grow—a space that supports their well-being and strengthens our city as a whole. How do you put a price on that?

Some suggest NRYS should just use existing gym space. But as Superintendent Sean Gallagher wrote in a March 17, 2025 memo, "the school gyms are already fully booked—with activities running as late as 9 p.m. during the winter. Given this high demand and limited availability of gym space, incorporating a new recreational program within our school facilities is not feasible."

There simply isn't space. And despite all these challenges, NRYS still managed to generate over $774,000 in revenue last year. That's a testament to the department's incredible leadership.

In fact, the biggest challenge may be that RYS Director Andi Egmont has done too good a job making things work without a home base. But that shouldn't be the reason we deny her—and the kids she serves—the space they need. Without a dedicated center, many programs will continue to be cut. That's a loss for everyone.

The City Council has done its part. Now it's up to you. I urge all residents to vote yes on May 13th. Let's finally give our youth the space they deserve.

HEATH GRANAS

Newburyport