Letter from Todd Collins

Re: City Planner, Growth, Dialogue

Regarding the city planner’s recent, Facebook-friends-only, statement expressing both relief and frustration regarding the Stagecoach Coffee project. While I understand the sentiments, I take issue with the characterization of community concerns as “stifling dialogue” and suggest a different perspective on the role of city planners.

First, let’s be clear: Expressing concerns about a project affecting one’s community is not opposition, it’s civic engagement. Citizens have a right to voice their opinions on proposed developments, especially those directly impacting their neighborhoods. To label this engagement as “stifling” undermines the crucial role public discourse plays in a healthy democracy.

Second, while open dialogue is essential, it shouldn’t be framed as a “give and take” where developers unilaterally propose projects and residents simply acquiesce or resist. Planning processes should be truly collaborative, with a genuine exchange of ideas, concerns and potential solutions. The goal is not simply to push projects through, but to arrive at the best possible outcome for the community as a whole.

In this case, while the Grady brothers may be “community-minded,” their initial proposal might not have been the right fit for Walnut Street. Open dialogue, including the concerns raised by residents, could have led to modifications or adjustments, potentially even resulting in a more successful project in a different location.

I understand the frustration of a city planner caught in the middle. However, instead of seeing community engagement as an obstacle, view it as an opportunity to refine and improve project proposals. Remember, the role isn’t just to facilitate development, but to ensure it aligns with the needs and aspirations of the very community a city planner serves.

Let’s embrace genuine dialogue, not label legitimate concerns as “stifling.” As Mark Twain rightly observed, “Progress is a pleasant experience until you look where you’re going.” In Oneonta, let’s work together to ensure progress takes us where we truly want to be.

Todd Collins
Oneonta