By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
After standing up to save the green space while others wanted to build on the acreage, the leader of the project planning has stepped down.
“I can’t begin to tell you how disappointed and chagrined I am to report the resignation of Dr. Eric Myers as chair of the steering committee for the Wooster Green,” Mayor Dick Edwards said Tuesday evening at the beginning of the City Council meeting.
The work of the steering committee has been repeatedly criticized for planning too much on the green space, to not planning enough for the site, to not including enough input from young people despite an open process in the planning.
After nearly two years of trying to satisfy the desires of many on just 1.7 acres, Myers submitted a letter of resignation to the mayor on Sunday.
“I do not do this easily but, for the good of the project and for me, it is time to do so,” Myers wrote. “I will continue to support the project both vocally and financially. I appreciate the opportunity you gave me in helping with this important project.”
Edwards said he has agonized over Myers resignation.
“I don’t want to see all of Eric’s good leadership get pushed aside or get led down the wrong path,” the mayor said of the “little 1.7 acres that we all have grown to love.”
“We see that little piece of ground as being integral” to the city’s Community Action Plan, the downtown area, and the welcoming quality of the city, Edwards said. “We really do have a lot at stake here.”
So after chewing on the issue for a day, the mayor made a decision.
“I’m going to take over the chairmanship of that committee and try to keep it going,” Edwards said. “I don’t want to see people take a walk out of frustration.”
Council president Mike Aspacher voiced his appreciation for the mayor stepping in.
“Everyone on council remains committed to a successful outcome of that space,” Aspacher said.
Council member Sandy Rowland said that council should make sure those volunteering on the green space effort are aware that council supports their work.
Edwards said the repeated criticism is wearing on the volunteers who are trying to create a town square for the community. “Some are getting discouraged because of what they are reading,” he said.
