I support renovation of the Hampden Senior Center, but the current proposal of millions of dollars is not a prudent use of Hampden’s resources. I am concerned that this proposal does not respect the wishes of the residents who voted “no” at both the 2024 Annual Town Meeting and the spring override election, and is simply a way around the will of the people.
The Selectmen appointed a committee with the charge of evaluating options for the renovation and possible expansion of the existing Senior Center building. The proposed project aims to nearly double the size of the center, despite the fact that the Hampden Senior Center is open only 30 hours a week and the population of our town has decreased over the past 25 years.
The proposed Proposition 2 1/2 override article is not a responsible use of taxpayer money. We must prioritize projects that offer the most benefit to our community. While supporting our Hampden seniors is crucial, we must ensure that we do so in a manner that is cost effective, efficient, appropriate and mindful of all the various community needs.
The purpose of the Hampden Senior Center is to support Hampden residents: providing fuel assistance, lunch and food programs, insurance support, health and social programs and rides. The proposed tax increase could force Hampden residents out of their homes. Residents — not just seniors — could be forced to choose food and shelter, or medical or taxes. The very people we intend to support are being negatively impacted.
The Annual Town Meeting vote of May 2024 failed.
The Referendum Override Question of May 2024 failed.
Why aren’t Hampden voters being heard and why isn’t our vote being respected? It is the old children’s approach of “wear them down, and you’ll get what you want.”
Since we must vote again, please come to the Town Meeting on Oct. 29 and vote “no,” and vote “no” at the override election whenever it is scheduled.
Thank you.
Duane Mosier
Hampden
