To the editor:
Some letter writers to your newspaper who want no development of the former Metacomet golf course have spoken disparagingly of the East Providence Waterfront Commission, as if its members should not be trusted in their decisions.

As a member of that commission, I refute their arrogant insinuation with a description of the personnel, procedures and decisions involved there. The Waterfront Commission is composed of uncompensated volunteers who serve solely to guide developments in East Providence toward the best outcomes for the social, cultural and economic health of our entire city. We accrue no personal gain beyond improving the communities where our families live.

The commission is also composed almost entirely of East Providence residents with a wide range of talents who care about our local environment as much as anyone else.

Over my two years there, we have reviewed many projects, critiquing the developers’ plans and ideas and directing improvements after holding numerous intelligent, professional discussions. We oversee all design and engineering proposals while considering the effects of a project on the current and future needs of the population within and beyond the city. We follow all state and municipal regulations for meetings and procedures, while keeping strict oversight of all financial impacts on the city.

The work of the commission is as honorable, trustworthy and dedicated to the good of East Providence as any other board, council or commission active today. Our fellow residents can be assured that all our decisions will be made with the best interest of everyone in mind.

David O’Connell
East Providence