LETTER: New Trash Bins the Last Straw

To the Editor:

Hamden, Ct. in the early 1960’s when my family settled here, was the envy of the New Haven relatives. Being able to live in a beautiful picturesque New England town, we were so proud!

Tree lined streets, manicured lawns, each school with a ball field and swing set, the Plaza and the Mart at our fingertips. More expensive to live than the former Hill Section, but still very reasonable for what was offered.

Hamden, Ct. 2014! While riding down the major and side streets that were once the site of beauty, peace and tranquility, it is now an utter disgrace! I see nothing to be proud of any longer in the town of Hamden, in fact, just the opposite.

I am ashamed of my hometown. I am ashamed of the litter, the blight, the road conditions, the constant fear residents must live in due to the overwhelming criminal element. As I turned the corner to my street I see nothing but over grown town property that must be negotiated as to not scratch your car.

I see trash thrown into the overgrown mess, trash strewn around the curb-sides now abandoned and left with nothing but TREE STUMPS for the past two years — stumps created by the Mayors decision; that not scratching the street sweeper or paver was more of a priority than the little ambiance that was left after the Tornado of 1989.

My taxes have doubled since Jackson was first voted in, the town services have slowly been taken away or made literally impossible for residents to take advantage of. You could plan a family vacation with less effort than coordinating a trip to the dump.

But the latest decision by our illustrious mayor has to be one of the most poignant in realizing he has no vision for Hamden other than it to be the new New Haven. What a disgusting eye sore to see house after house two large monstrosities – one blue and one green. Even the most beautifully manicured lawn, painted / decorated house and paved driveway is brought down with the inability to hide the new trash receptacles the size of a compact car.

Why not a dumpster at the end of each block? At least then the middle of the block stands a chance of looking decent. For all the money wasted in this town on nonsense, I can’t believe this was necessary! Who seems to benefit here? The trash company who can now function with less manpower? 

Once again Mayor Jackson, BAD DECISION!! You who grew up in this town, you who spout the phrase you want your children to grow up in the Hamden you did. Yet you continuously make decisions that bring this town down year after year! 

I guess it’s true what they say, you can’t go home – especially when the powers to be are insisted on making the place nothing but an OVER PRICED CRAP HOLE!! 

Thanks to your decisions over the past five years, I no longer desire to live here, yet you’ve made it impossible to be able to sell! Shame on those entrusted by the voters to do what should be best for Hamden – you have no clue!!

Linda Connors
Hamden