Thursday, September 27, 2007

Wellness Center Switched to Kindergarten...Ok, But...

Riverguy is a little puzzled....changes seem to be made around here quickly, and seemingly under the radar. A good case in point is the Wellness Center that was going to be built on the grounds of Toms River Intermediate East. Not too many people seemed to know about it, or understand how it came about. Just as awareness was growing, we suddenly learn that the plan has changed. A new building for a Kindergarten will be built on the site instead. Now, this seems to make more sense, and I'm not condemning the idea (actually I'm prone to praise it), but once again we had a fast action that didn't allow much discussion in the community. Now I know planning meetings do occur, and the more astute of you are thinking..."well, these other folks are sloppy citizens, and just need to pay more attention, and get to the meetings." Ok....but let's be real a minute. People are busy, distracted, and yes, a bit lazy. But the movers and shakers in the community owe it to all of us to announce and publicize the meetings and discussions of pending important decisions in a bigger way -- and well in advance. The public, collectively, does have a lot of common sense, and should be allowed to fully weigh in on things going on around town. Getting some public consensus will also dispel that feeling of things happening "under the radar."

2 comments:

Anquiro Veritas said...

I AGREE. However, if you're counting on the "movers or shakers" affiliated with TR Schools Administration or BOE to slow down and explain things...think again.

Mr. Ritacco knows that the community (as a whole) has alot of common sense, which is why he purposely moves controversial deals forward at the speed of sound. Although, it hasn't been as easy lately, as the public has been paying an awful lot of attention to what's been going on.

If it wasn't for a small group of concerned citizens, Toms River taxpayers may still be looking at a very questionable $7.75 real estate purchase on potentially contaminated land. Now, instead of having no vote regarding what is built next to the Bubble, residents will have an opportunity to choose whether (or not) to fund construction via referendum. Plus, another referendum is possible if the BOE needs to purchase property for relocation of the Wellness Center project.

Keep your eyes peeled.

Anquiro Veritas said...

Another good blog about Toms River can be found at Yahoo!

Login to Yahoo! and click "groups", then search for "The Toms River Project"