To the editor:

Since joining the City Council in 2008, I have seen our community tackle and overcome challenges that seemed insurmountable. Back then, it was stabilizing the school operating budget, renovating or replacing aging buildings, arguing about more park or parking on the waterfront, and delivering on the senior center our residents deserved. These successes took time, persistence and collective will.

Today, we face a new opportunity: whether or not to create a modest, reasonably priced Recreation and Youth Services Center that will serve our young people as well as us older folks. Newburyport's Youth Services has been without a permanent home since 2021, relying on temporary stop gap locations to maintain vital programs. The proposed race. center at 59 Low St. is the result of years of planning, public input, and deliberation.

The Council voted to purchase the building for just over $200,000, the Council supported the necessary zoning changes, and the Council approved design funding. The Council fought through those steps and here we are.

Now, the final decision is in the hands of Newburyport's citizens. Here's why you should support it.

The process has been transparent, with over 50 public meetings, and a long saga it has been. The location is ideal- smack dab in the middle of the city and across from the Nock/Molin schools. Consolidating staff and programming under one roof will improve efficiency and allow us to better serve our youth and community members of all ages. I would argue that the project's cost is modest, especially compared to similar facilities in other communities. This is not the Taj Mahal of youth centers. We have secured diverse funding sources, including grants and donations. Whether individual councilors were for it or questioning the rationale, the Council has worked diligently with the Reardon administration to keep the design basic and practical snd affordable.

Years ago, some doubted the value of a Senior/Community Center — now it is one of our most beloved community assets. I believe the Youth and Community Center will follow that same path, becoming a cornerstone for generations to come. On May 13, I urge my fellow residents to vote yes for the rec. center. Let's continue Newburyport's tradition of investing in our future-together.

ED CAMERON

Newburyport