Editor,

I must honestly admit that I would deeply regret the loss of my view if Mr. Francisco’s plans for First Street become a reality. I live here, and I don’t use that phrase lightly. This is my home and I know that I’m one of the luckiest people in the world to have such a beautiful one. But I would be concerned about such a radical change to the character of First Street even if I was only a neighbor.

I grew up in a small town where the courthouse was an old brick building with enormous clocks on its dome. It sat in the middle of the town square surrounded by grassy space, spotted with the occasional park bench and statue of a local hero. People gathered there to chat and on Saturday mornings it was crowded with shoppers, gossipers and boys selling peanuts. In the early 1950s the town decided to revamp the courthouse square. They built a larger building, eliminating the park altogether. The best description I can think of came from my father who referred to it as a “shirt factory.”

If Langley was suffering from lack of space for businesses, additional building within walking distance, but not right in the center, would be reasonable. However, with almost a third of businesses having closed down recently, and many places remaining empty, I am at a loss to see any advantage to additional space for rental purposes.

Hopefully those responsible for the city’s future will consider creating guidelines and regulations where they do not already exist in order to maintain the character of our lovely community.

MARY GOOLSBY

Langley