To the editor:

I am a lifelong resident of Newburyport, currently living in the Back Bay. Descended from immigrant workers, I was fortunate to grow up in a southend neighborhood full of caring families. Attending Newburyport schools, marrying, raising children and working here in town, I have seen many changes in my city — some good, some bad, but none as disheartening as in the past few years.

The saddest realization is that the average resident holds no value to our elected and appointed officials, and the ability to live peacefully in this town is not a right, but a fight. There was a time when most officials listened to constituents on par with others, making determinations based on all input for the good for all. Ward representatives helped to protect our rights and assisted in keeping the close-knit fabric of a neighborhood from being torn apart.

Now decisions are based and laws are enacted/changed frequently on information solely presented by proponents of issues and often the average resident either has no knowledge of or has been totally disregarded in the process. We witness decisions based on inaccurate information without care for those impacted, but considered gospel because presented by an "expert." Quoting Councilor Shanley, "That's the way things are done. Neither the council nor the city has the money to hire experts for every project, so that responsibility is usually left up to the applicant."

The phrases "a public hearing was held" and "you had your chance to speak" are stated to give the appearance your input would have made a difference. But that can only happen if a fair and independent understanding of issues takes place and consideration is given for all. Instead, our officials listen intently to those very experts while staring down the poor resident who dares to stand up and speak. I believe they know this is wrong, but feel it is an excuse to wield power, act biased and pass on considering the "good for all." Seeing recent insinuations about me by elected and appointed officials (namely ZBA Chair Ramsdell and Councilors Shanley and Earls) has opened my eyes wider than ever as to just how expendable the residents of Newburyport are to them.

Some may say "what do neighbors expect, they live near an industrial park?" The Back Bay neighborhood existed well before the park was even an idea in someone's head. But consider that many in this neighborhood have tolerated continued adverse impacts (noise, pollution, etc.) for the sake of business growth to bring jobs and tax revenue to Newburyport. Our officials are aware of concerns regarding detrimental impacts over time in this area, yet some are the very ones trying to squelch their constituents from protecting themselves. Too bad giving property tax breaks, grants, variances, etc. to some businesses are more important than the residents' right to live in Newburyport.

I am fortunate to live in the Back Bay neighborhood — it is a special place to live. Neighbors who care about others with a passion. This gives me hope that those of us bonded up on this hill will remain and soon the officials will move on.

Patty Spalding

Newburyport