The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper.
This evening, my wife, son and I walked through the HES property on the way up to Swan HIll. Teenagers were on the basketball court playing ball. A family was watching proudly as their young child learned to ride a bicycle in the side “teachers’” parking lot. Small children were playing on the playground. And the views from Swan HIll towards the CT River and our town were, of course, lovely.
Our regional Board of Education tried to sell this beautiful property and school in an open bidding process. Fortunately, the citizens of Haddam rose up to demand preservation of Swan Hill, and that the school be purchased by Haddam so we can decide its future. At the well-run public charrettes this week, an overwhelming majority of those attending favored turning HES into a community and educational center for the entire town, and making Swan HIll part of the centerpiece for our outdoor recreation.
In the end, the active and engaged citizens of Haddam really did “Save HES” even if the school closed. It was saved not only for ourselves, but future generations.
Don’t forget who stood up to Save HES and who represented our residents during this fight. And don’t forget who didn’t.
While many were involved in the effort, some key Save HESers who are running for office are listed below.
First Selectman: Brenda Buzzi
Selectman: Joe Rizzo
Board of Education: Shawna Goldfarb, Katie Packtor, Jane Baird
Board of Finance Alternate: Peter Baird, Michelle Burr Caron
Planning and Zoning: Liz Bazazi, Peter Baird
Planning and Zoning Alternate: Marie Lippincott
Zoning Board of Appeals: Eric Hesselberg, Sue DeCarli
Vote November 5th.
Thank you,
Peter Baird
Higganum, CT
