The start of a new year creates illusions — of progress, change, opportunity. A good argument can be made that it’s just another winter day dawning.
But we humans are a curious lot, and the reframing of the future is useful. Folks benefit from a chance to look at all those tomorrows spilled before their feet as a beginning, a new start.
In that spirit, here are some thoughts on what Ridgefield could do in 2014.
A primary goal should be to try, with deep respect and good common sense, to let normalcy reclaim the mental and emotional space that the horrible shootings in Newtown took over in the beginning of 2013. An unthinkable tragedy for our neighbors — one they will no doubt continue trying to make some kind of peace with — it was also a shock to our mental outlook. We need to complete the school security work that grew out of the tragedy. And we should continue working at state and national levels for more sensible gun laws and more serious attention to mental health. But let us allow that dark page to be turned.
Ridgefield has things to do, as a town. The selectmen are working on a “blight law” that citizens will have to judge. The Schlumberger property and its future still loom large on the municipal to-do list: This can be a huge positive for Ridgefield, but the process needs to be kept open and inclusive. The schools will continue their step-by-step march toward incorporating Common Core standards. We’ll need a new fire chief.
There are projects that need doing, or at least continued progress in planning: the sewer plant renovation, the bike path connecting the Recreation Center to the Rail Trail. And New Street residents are lobbying for sidewalks, a petition that seems worthy of attention.
There’s more, no doubt.
An old year’s behind us, and a new year begins. There are things to do. The best approach is often simply to get on with them.