Letter to the Editor: Point's Future
I have read many of the letters from Waddington residents regarding Leishman Point. There
seems to be two opposing views. One side, (the town) wants to build residential housing
and the other side (WRA) is opposed to housing yet wants commercial ventures. Both sides
of this issue basically want the same thing . . . . The best for Waddington. Yet they have
pitted themselves against one another using Leishman Point as their war trophy. Many of
the residents are so angry at each other, depending on what side they support, that they
are willing to lose Leishman Point which is a priceless natural resource, just to get back
at the opposing party. What each side fails to notice is that most of the residents of
Waddington want the land to remain for the people, a public place for recreation and
solitude. Individuals I have spoken with regardless whether they were Town Board
supporters or WRA supporters want Leishman Point to remain what it is now, a town treasure
available to everyone.
Fifty years ago the Power Authority took over this valuable asset as part of the Seaway
Project. Now that it has been given back to the town, why does there have to be any type
of development at all? As far as housing, why should a select few be able to enjoy the
spectacular setting only because they can afford it? After all, there are over 2100
residents of this Town, many of them taxpayers who love Waddington and use Leishman Point
for their leisure. Other commercial develop ment will only hinder access by the residents
of Waddington. Once this land is developed, it is gone from the Public forever.
Other lands are available for housing and development. Focus for development and income
should be steered to those areas. Leave Leishman Point to the people for their enjoyment.
On any given day throughout the year, you will see residents out enjoying this wonderful
piece of nature.
Let's work together. A NO VOTE on Oct. 14 will ensure that the residents of
Waddington will have time to let the Town Board know how important this land is to them.
Both sides, (The Town and WRA), must put aside their personal differences and work
together to make Leishman Point available for all to enjoy its natural wonders. Nature
trails and park benches would be a great start!
Elizabeth Pier
Waddington
Originally published 10/05/2003
Ogdensburg Journal
Used with permission