Letter: Mitra Will Champion Sustainable Growth, Inclusive Community in Ferguson Township

Ferguson Township has seen dramatic changes over the past 10 years. It has seen significant progress in attracting new businesses and residents to our neighborhood. Proximity to Penn State and other main employers in the region will continue to drive growth.

While the changes over the past decade have been beneficial for many, it has not been kind to acres of trees and the habitat that is dependent on them.  Our neighborhood is already devoid of the deer and bears that used to frequent us. This forebodes consequences of continued growth that is not sustainable. Clean air and water is something we take for granted. Many communities are paying huge costs for getting back their clean air and water.

Fortunately, we have the option to support a sustainable growth for our township. Prasenjit Mitra, who is running for the Ferguson Township Board of Supervisors, Ward 2, hopes to champion the cause of sustainable development. As a scientist, he will bring the experience of addressing tough challenges that require balancing competing tradeoffs. He will leverage his leadership role from academic settings to drive his inclusive vision for moving our entire community forward.

We are at an inflection point in growth and our local representatives will play a major role in the direction that it takes. Please participate in shaping our future in the upcoming elections. We hope Ferguson Township will remain an attractive residential and business community for our children and grandchildren.

Priya Baboo