Dear Editor:

Few people get a second chance in life! Initially the selectmen refused the state's DEP grant of $180,000 for a conservation easement on approximately 80 of the 133 acres of the Bosco property due to restrictions stipulating maintenance of the property for open space, a few ball fields, and passive recreation. Subsequently the Town, by means of referendum, rejected using this parcel for a multi-sport complex not once, but twice. There were a number of reasons. The proposed complex did not qualify as open space. There were questions regarding safety. Many, myself included, did not think that the cost was justified, especially when other priorities exist. How many towns in Connecticut with a population of 6,500 have a recreation complex costing $6,000,000!

There is no question that there is a need for ball fields. Why not rethink the concept of small neighborhood parks with ball fields? The large recreation complex in Clinton has been a target for vandalism. It is easier to control the use of small neighborhood fields and there is less of a traffic problem. Some children who ordinarily might not engage in sports in a large facility may feel more comfortable participating in activities held in a neighboring park. The vote at Town Meeting approving construction of a Little League field on Bethke Road supports this concept.

Now that the Bosco Recreation Complex has been rejected, why is the Board of Selectmen reluctant to accept $180,000.00? What grandiose projects do they envision on this site? The people should decide in a

Referendum whether the town should pursue the grant of $180,000. A vote of 2-to-l Selectmen should not be the final say in acquiring these funds.

At the Selectmen's meeting on June 13, Lou Annino reminded the two other selectmen that the property was purchased for open space in order to establish a "Green Belt " from Haddam all the way through Killingworth. The Bosco Recreation Complex was flawed and not meant to be. Mr. Denvir, take your second chance and pursue the grant of $180,000. Let your legacy to Killingworth include the "Green Belt" through Haddam and Killingworth!

Barbara Klein
Killingworth