By Julie McClintock

We go about our lives not noticing when big changes are afoot. Most people are busy with a demanding job or just getting their kids ready for school. Now changes are too big not to notice.

Near Whole Foods across from the Credit Union , I miss the graceful willow oaks lining Elliott Road. Now cement piers grow upwards replacing the blank spaces left by the missing trees. They will support two 7 story apartment buildings, dwarfing the old walkable shopping centers to either side – which had all the stores I needed. Behind the project, the contractor removed the tree lined greenway – and built one with a view of a parking garage.

Before the Town Council made the massive rezoning decision, citizens were asked to articulate their vision – they suggested a Weaver Street Market experience next to Booker Creek, energy efficient lower scale buildings, affordable housing, a pedestrian friendly small park, and even uncovering a creek in Eastgate. But the Council did not listen nor implement any of the citizen or Planning Board recommendations.

This Council wants to replace our shopping centers with tall souless structures built right to the property line. But the rezoning action is pushing out our favorite shops. Plaza Cleaners were told to leave and 6 more small shops and business that we value and need are leaving soon.

The Community’s vision should be driving the change. We need a Town Council who listens to what the community wants. This zone can be overhauled, if we elect new leaders.

Get registered to vote by October 8 and then vote November 3 for the kind of change you want.

Come to the CHALT Community Forum next Tuesday Sept 15 at 7 pm at the Seymour Senior Center on Homestead Road.