Village Of Cooperstown CAN Be A

Constructive Partner In Bassett’s Future

Edition of Thursday-Friday Oct. 9-10, 2014

To the Editor,

I would like to make a small contextual clarification to my published statement made after the no vote on the Hospital Zone.

First, I don’t remember saying “forever” (but in the heat of the moment maybe I did).

Second, I made that statement out loud to the mayor after I, and I believe Lou Allstadt (possibly others) wanted to have some open discussion about the matter and the mayor chose to not have any discussion.

I resented being put in that situation and my statement was my spontaneous reply. No discussion, no support. It was not a blanket statement against Bassett or the possibility of a wider campus.

I also then said aloud, as those in attendance were leaving, “this is a missed opportunity.” Yes, I realize that we had to finish the board meeting, but this was a very important and divisive issue and I felt that it was deserving of more discussion at that time since I have rarely seen so many residents in attendance on an issue.

Nothing was gained by the way it ended. I would have stayed all night if it would have opened communications and started a dialog for the greater good.

Bassett is undeniably a major asset to this community, and our region, and we are extremely fortunate to have Bassett here. I do not think many people are against Bassett.

I do think that the possibility of unknown major changes (like major buildings and/or multi-level parking garages), in unknown locations, is an issue of major concern for many of the residents bordering Bassett properties. I do not live in that area so I am not speaking from first-hand experience.

Hospitals, like other businesses and institutions, are often changing. Life is change. Working through change in a non adversarial way can bring a satisfactory outcome acceptable to all sides.

I believe the ongoing relationship between Bassett and the neighborhood (and the Village) can be worked out with open, upfront communications, an inclusive sharing of ideas, a consideration for community concerns, and a creative flexibility of locations for possible projects.

Fortunately, Bassett has the ability to do all four. The Village has the ability to be a constructive partner for our mutual benefit.

“The best way out is always through” – Robert Frost

JAMES R. DEAN
Trustee
Village of Cooperstown