On Jan. 26, a conclusion regarding the final chapter in the Griswold Airport saga should be reached. From my own experience, almost everyone says, "We should have bought it years ago at such and such a price." It seems therefore that most people agree that we-the Town of Madison-should own the property for

conservation and recreation purposes.

The only sticking point seems to be the money. The median value home will be taxed an average of $68 per year for 20 years. For this modest investment, our town can add another jewel to accompany our great school system, Surf Club, and the Garvin property. Along with the location on Long Island Sound, these things create strong reasons for property value appreciation, the

present economic downturn notwithstanding.

The Griswold property is a totally unique, 42-acre parcel bordering the Hammonasset River, salt marsh, and the state park. It is not likely that any future conservation opportunity will match or approach it in either size, proximity to water, or habitat significance. Let's not pass it up. I encourage your readers to vote "Yes" on

Jan. 26-their grandchildren will thank them for their foresight and most generous gift.

Ralph Dykstra

Madison