Thanks for the enthusiastic editorial in the July 6 edition!
Boosting downtown Greenfield’s cyclical and seemingly perpetually nascent rebirth should be a top priority for residents, city government and business people.
Some might question an emphasis on retail businesses as a foundation, but the existing infrastructure of vacant storefronts might in fact present opportunities for risk takers if any could be found.
Kudos for acknowledging Rachael Katz and her energy and commitment to the local arts community as well as her investment in what was as unoccupied, underutilized former retail space in the heart of downtown. She had a vision and she took chances.
With respect to proposed development along Greenfield’s perimeters, your suggestion that large-scale retailers may not offer high-paying opportunities for workers should not, in my view, disqualify them from participation in local improvement efforts and development. Minimum wage employment has been the experience of many Main Street retail employees over many years, and in some respects their sacrifices have allowed Main Street employers to carry on.
As someone committed to a career in fine arts, my wish would be that producers, like myself, be supported by area residents and businesses working together to grow the creative component of our local economy. For that reason I appreciate the Recorder’s recognition of art-makers generally as having a place in Greenfield.
Robert Bent
Greenfield