Do you remember the “dark” days of COVID? Information was, at best, confusing, and knowledge about the virus was evolving. It took a long time, but clarity started to emerge that allowed individuals to make somewhat informed decisions on a variety of topics. One of the sources that Guilford residents began to rely on was the weekly update by our first selectman, Matt Hoey. I usually didn’t like the statistics he was announcing, but I certainly appreciated his clear communication of the facts. In a time of uncertainty, communication is key, and Mr. Hoey did a great job on this.

Fast forward to today’s important topic of locating the APT Foundation methadone clinic in our town; the silence is deafening! Public concern over this is widespread. To be clear, this should not be a partisan issue but rather an area of concern for all residents. As in many cases, the lack of information only fuels these concerns. I am not advocating for or against this clinic, but rather have many questions about it. I’m sure I’m not alone in this. Why hasn’t there been a town meeting to inform us? Why is this an almost “done deal”? What guardrails has the town put in place to protect the community and minimize any possible negative impacts?

It is my opinion that Mr. Hoey gets an “A plus” for communicating during the COVID crisis but should receive a failing grade with respect to openness and communication on the clinic. Guilford residents need and are owed full transparency for all things critical to the town’s well-being. In that regard, I would advocate for a hold on the clinic and call for a town-sponsored meeting to vet this important topic and allow for community feedback.

Michael Mennone

Guilford