Your positive feedback & attendance request

The 499 signatures we received represent a definitive majority in favor of the bench. This strong community consensus should carry significant weight in the decision.

Local government exists to serve the public, and listening to residents is part of that responsibility. Following the rules and listening to the community shouldn't be mutually exclusive.

I understand that not everyone is going to like everything someone does. That's normal in any community.

But I do think it's worth looking at the intent, the process, and the actual impact before turning something into a problem.

I asked permission.

I was told it was approved.

I considered the placement.

I considered safety.

I considered pedestrians and vehicles.

I thought about accessibility.

I thought about nature.

I thought about the people who walk through this neighborhood.

And I thought about creating one small place where someone could stop, rest, breathe, and enjoy the surroundings.

That's what I was trying to give back to my community.

So if the biggest problem we have is that someone put out a bench—with permission—that encourages people to stop and enjoy a garden, watch birds, and take a break while walking through town, then maybe it's worth asking whether the bench itself is really the problem.

Sometimes a bench is just a bench.

But sometimes, it's an invitation to slow down and enjoy where you live.

So Mark your calendars! Sept. 21 at 7pm at the Franklin Park Police Station.  
Your attendance and positive feedback are key to making this bench permanent. We hope to see you there!