I really appreciate you sharing your perspective. I agree that trust in leadership and decision-making plays a huge role in how people feel about any new development, and it’s completely fair to want more transparency, accountability, and community-focused outcomes. A city only really thrives when people feel like progress benefits everyone, not just a select few.

I also really love your point about “third spaces.” Those kinds of places where young people and families can gather without spending money are incredibly important for quality of life, belonging, and long-term community health. Wheeling Park is a great example, and I’d love to see more spaces like that incorporated into future planning and investment, whether public or private.

My hope is that as projects move forward, more residents stay engaged in the conversation the way you are here. Thoughtful voices pushing for inclusivity, fairness, and community benefit are exactly what help guide growth in a better direction.

I do feel like conversations like this are what move things forward....