Letter To Editor: Continue Wilder Bandshell Conversation

This letter to the editor is from Elmhurst resident Katie Marsico:

When I first heard about the debate surrounding the location of the bandshell in Wilder Park, I have to admit that I didn't give it much thought. However, as time has passed, that has changed. For me, the coordinates of the proposed project aren't the primary concern; they indeed matter but are merely the top layer of a much broader question – what is the nature of the conversations we have with our elected officials?

I have no doubt that some commissioners feel they have effectively solicited public engagement regarding the placement of the bandshell. Yet I also believe that, for several of us, our focal point when voting on the referendum was the Wagner Center. Regardless, the past few months have afforded members of our community a greater opportunity to consider the issues at stake regarding the bandshell. Sometimes that's the way conversations go . . . talking points shift or come into enhanced focus, which sparks new – and ideally productive – dialogue.

From my perhaps naive perspective, the ability to maintain that meaningful conversation and to adapt it to incorporate new insights and information is invaluable. I understand that there are inevitably complicating factors, but I am curious what they are in this case. If we have the opportunity to continue a conversation for the betterment of the community, even if it means re-envisioning our plans, why not have it? At the end of the day and as everyone is aware, taxpayers were a critical part of funding the referendum, so their buy-in is relevant.

I can't say I've ever attended a Park Board meeting. Nonetheless, I would like to think I keep abreast of topics that make their way to the forefront of public discussion and/or media coverage. To that end, I don't feel that residents unnecessarily stall or oppose most initiatives. So one has to wonder why so many people are speaking out about this particular issue. The answer is that it matters to them, and that makes it matter enough to deserve the ongoing conversation that is being demanded. At the very least, it warrants a discussion to better explain what is being increasingly perceived as a need for speed when it comes to building the bandshell. I completely concede that sometimes there are legitimate reasons to rush a project, but then the investors who are funding it deserve to hear what they are.

This is a bandshell. It will enrich our community and afford performers and audiences alike a unique opportunity to further enjoy both the fine arts and Wilder Park. Yet it is still a bandshell – unlike a hospital, accelerating its construction isn't going to save lives. On the other hand, pushing ahead at the cost of not adequately evaluating community concerns is going to impact public confidence in the nature of our conversations with elected officials. I therefore hope that members of our Park Board – who all have my gratitude and respect for their time and effort – are willing to keep the conversation going. Or, less preferably, to at least explain to their constituents why they are not.