Can another skunk join the party? It's not the concept of a visitor's center that gives me heartburn, but the location, as you so aptly pointed out. A well done visitor's center is perhaps needed, but to plant it in the middle of the the most historic area needs a lot more discussion than what can logically be expected at a single commission meeting.
I'm not try to be obstructionist, but once a building like what is being proposed is planted it will be there for eternity. I well remember the heated discussion over the shop addition. There is a parallel here to which we should all pay close attention. History is not necessarily lost in one fell swoop, but in dribbles and dabs and by single board and nail.
At the very least, what is needed is a meeting (discussion) by all concerned on this question. It goes to the heart of what we all have worked so hard to preserve over the years. For openers, it is unclear in my mind how this fits into whatever master plan (if there is one) relating to things which will substantially change the historic fabric of the C&TS.
I'm hoping that the commission will not be stampeded into a quick decision on this. There is much, much more at stake.
CJ