A recent story in the Suburban News detailed the modest cuts to the regional school budget made by the three town governing bodies. In defense of the budget, a departing school administrator is quoted as saying that Oakland is not the place people seek for retirement. I take strong exception to this view as a 30 year resident. Our town is a wonderful place for older citizens.
While we can be proud of our national recognition as a good place to raise kids, we should also recognize that Oakland offers much to seniors. From world class cultural and entertainment venues a short drive away to leisurely strolls in our parks and mountains and great shopping and restaurants. Our Senior Citizen Center is one of the best in the county. We also enjoy access to the best doctors and medical facilities as well as the assurance of dedicated ems, police and fire services. Try finding all of these in the sunbelt.
We should advertise these assets and realize that older citizens often have more disposable income to nurture what we hope someday to be a vibrant downtown. This is not to diminish the real concerns many of us have about rising taxes, and the impact that has on all of us. I think that divisive statements that seek to portray Oakland as desirable to a single demographic are untrue and strategically foolish. “Grow old with me, the best is yet to be”-in Oakland.
-Bob Davis