Summit is at its best when we show up for one another.

For more than 115 years, Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation has quietly and consistently shown up for this city — offering worship, pastoral care, youth programming, interfaith partnership, and space for community initiatives that extend well beyond its membership. Beacon has never existed only for itself. It has served Summit.

Now, after nearly two years of public review, revisions, and dialogue with neighbors, Beacon’s application to relocate and renovate the former Red Cross site at 695 Springfield Avenue comes before the Summit Zoning Board for a final decision. This is the last meeting before the Board votes.

Throughout this process, Beacon has reduced seating capacity, addressed parking and design concerns, and narrowed its variance requests. The congregation has demonstrated responsiveness, patience, and a sincere commitment to being a good neighbor while planning for a sustainable and accessible future.

As a lifelong Summit resident and former member of the Summit Common Council, I have seen firsthand how faith institutions strengthen the civic fabric of our community. Beacon has been a consistent partner in service and in opening its doors for the greater good.

This final hearing is not simply procedural. It is the moment when our community’s voice matters most. I urge residents who believe in fairness, religious freedom, and thoughtful growth to attend the meeting and respectfully express their support, or to submit written comments to the Zoning Board prior to the vote.

Beacon has shown up for Summit for generations. At this decisive moment, I hope Summit will show up for Beacon.

Sincerely,

Susan Hairston
Former Member, Summit Common Council 2019-2023
Summit, New Jersey