I attended the last Selectboard meeting remotely and have navigated the thicket of history, legal and financial information to the best of my ability.

The library and Senior Center were key elements in our 2021 decision to purchase 74 N. Main St. The Senior Center soon collapsed into a church hall for three hours, three days a week A “waiting room” on the other side of the river has been added. The library, despite its limitations, (we were used to N.Amherst Library which is even smaller), remains a very functional and much loved facility with friendly and helpful staff.

It seems obvious to me, that the original pre-COVID-19 plan to expand the Tilton needs to be modified to reflect the present state of the national and local economy, debt load, population and post-COVID-19 life which has changed everything dramatically and permanently. However, any significant change to the building plan to reflect the present estimated cost seems impossible under state funding regulations. To go forward with so many unknowns and factors out of local control, seems reckless indeed, given the world scenario. This expansion does not resolve the serious need for a functional community center, (not a senior center), for all.

To get the ball rolling in a different direction I envision keeping the Tilton as a book library with seating for individuals and small gatherings related entirely to reading and books as originally intended. A “library of things,” computer use and tech-related activities to be accommodated in a reinvented community center for a wide variety of activities that would help blend the artificial age and economic divides and promote respect to all..

The Tilton could be connected under cover to the town-owned church and parking organized for both.

Funding? There is a wealth of competent caring residents in the area. The “common pot” is in need of small physical and financial contributions to go along with the hard work of those creating a town vision and financial management. Relying on government funding is not working in this new world. It is wasteful and competitive, neither of which promotes self-sufficiency and security for the future … like collaborative, lasting creativity.

Melissa Perot

South Deerfield