To the editor:

Ballot questions numbers 9 and 10 speak to Barrington's commitment to upgrading our ailing athletic fields. At the same time, we care deeply for our beautiful coastline, abundant wildlife, and open spaces, and we work hard to protect them. Barrington needs a long-term strategy that honors both of these goals. Unfortunately, the town government is presenting us with a false choice for our fields: the status quo or artificial turf. We have other options.

Barrington has spent thousands on feasibility studies offering alternatives to artificial turf, which have been inexplicably ignored. Several towns across New England maintain organic, natural grass fields, and readily share best practices, yet Barrington decision-makers have not consulted with officials from these towns. The many advisory organizations for natural grass athletic fields have never been contacted. Meanwhile, Barrington perennially pushes plastic grass—despite its known chemical threats to our waterways, soil, and the health of our kids. We’re being asked to spend millions on a “solution” with a 10-year life span. This lack of leadership and imagination risks serious financial and environmental costs. It is unnecessarily pitting neighbors against one another when we could be working together in the best interests of the people and things we care most about. 

On Nov. 5, vote “No” on 9 and 10. Demand an honest, transparent investigation of all our athletic field options. 

Jessica Allen

Barrington