"It's Time to Compromise," Letters to the Editor in Newport This Week

It’s Time for Compromise

To the Editor:

It is unfortunate that the Preservation Society in Newport is not willing, like many institutions, to discuss situations when there is discord to work out a solution that will accommodate all sides. The current board and administration seems determined to build a Welcome Center next to The Breakers! In doing so, it seems that the only thing to gain is more animosity.

A perfect solution is to erect the building in the parking lot across the street, which has more than enough room, or to buy the house that the Preservation Society sold to Salve Regina years ago, located next to the parking lot. There are also other areas close to The Breakers that could be used.
The Preservation Society has spent money on attorneys that could have been used for preserving their properties and gardens that desperately need the funds for maintenance.
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I have been a part of an opposition group, which was founded by Dorrance Hamilton. We feel strongly that the new facility should not be located on the historic Breakers property! It is time for the Preservation Society to meet with those who object to the placement of the center to find a solution for the good of the community.

I served the Preservation Society board for many years under the leadership of John Winslow and Jerry Slocum. We served the society, we met with people and listened to their concerns, and in so doing we always maintained the respect of the community and the donors.
Regrettably, it now seems as if the Preservation Society’s “silent board” will meekly acquiesce to this proposal, further damaging its reputation and relationship with the community, all because of stubbornness and an unwillingness to compromise. This is truly regrettable.

Mrs. John R. Donnell
Newport
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(Source: Newport This Week)